***
Upstairs, I slipped into my room and shut the door. My hands shook as I buttoned the bodice, the sash made from Dad’s service tie feeling heavier than ever. I pinned his silver pin, the one from basic training, at my waist and stared at my reflection.
For a second, I hesitated. Was I about to make a fool of myself?
I slipped into my room and shut the door.
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Downstairs, laughter rolled through the house. I could hear Jen saying, “She’s probably wearing something she found at Goodwill.” Her voice carried straight up the staircase.
Lia chimed in. “Or something she pulled out of the donation bin behind the church.” Both girls laughed.
I forced myself to breathe. I had to do this. I opened my door and started down the stairs. Jen’s mouth fell open.
“Oh my God, is that…?'”
Lia blinked, then snorted. “You made your dress out of a uniform? Are you serious right now?”
Both girls laughed.
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Camila’s eyes narrowed. “You cut up a uniform for that? Lord, look at you, Chelsea.”
“I didn’t cut it up. I made something out of what he left me.”
Camila laughed. “He left you rags, Chelsea. And it shows.”
Jen shook her head. “What, working at the diner wasn’t enough for a real dress?”
“It looks like you’re wearing something from the dollar-store,” Lia added. “Although, that’s totally your style.”
I blinked hard, willing the tears not to come.
“He left you rags, Chelsea. And it shows.”
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Suddenly, the doorbell rang, three loud knocks, cutting straight through their laughter. Camila groaned.
“Probably someone complaining about your parking again, Chelsea. Go answer it.”
I tried, but my legs wouldn’t move.
Camila sighed, brushed past me, and opened the door.
A military officer in full dress uniform stood on the porch. Next to him was a woman in a dark suit, holding a briefcase. Both looked solemn.
“Are you Camila, ma’am?” the officer asked, voice calm but commanding.
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