Hi, I’m Emily, I’m 17, and I’m a high school senior. Ever since my mom passed away, I’ve eagerly looked forward to prom night. I saved for months to buy a beautiful violet dress—my mom’s favorite color—and planned every little detail to make it a perfect evening.
I live with my dad, my stepmother Carla, and her 11‑year‑old son, Mason. Unfortunately, Carla has never liked me. It all started soon after my mother died and my dad married her. Carla began criticizing me and insisting that I looked too much like my mom, and her resentment has only grown since then.
On the big day, full of excitement, I headed to the upscale salon where I had booked a hair appointment for prom. I arrived all excited, but the receptionist soon looked at me with confusion and said,
—Emily? According to our system, your appointment was canceled. Zelda called and said you requested the cancellation.
I was stunned. “I didn’t cancel! Prom is tonight!” I thought. Then I saw something that took my breath away: there, in the salon chair, was Carla, sporting a malicious smile as she enjoyed the very service meant for me. My heart sank when I realized she had secretly canceled my appointment just to see me suffer.
Leaving the salon in tears, I ran home, trying in vain to style my hair on my own. I felt betrayed and helpless; all my plans for an unforgettable night were falling apart. Locked in my room with tears streaming down my face, I began to wonder if it was even worth going to prom.
Just when I thought everything was lost, I heard a persistent honking outside. With my heart racing, I rushed to the window and couldn’t believe my eyes: a sleek, elegant black limousine was parked right in front of our house. Without wasting a moment, I dashed downstairs. My dad, equally surprised, stood by as the driver handed him a small card.
—I’m here to pick up Miss Emily for prom, the driver said firmly.
My hands trembling, I took the card and opened it. Inside, written in beautiful handwriting, were these words:
“To my beautiful sister, Emily. I know you’ve been going through a tough time, but you deserve the best night ever! I saved all my birthday and Christmas money to give you this gift. Enjoy the limousine and don’t worry about a thing. Have a magical night, sister. Love, Mason.”
In that moment, a wave of surprise and gratitude washed over me. My little brother—who has always treated me with so much love—had taken it upon himself to overturn Carla’s cruel plans. While my stepmother stood there, jaw dropped, I climbed into the limousine, feeling that, at last, my night could be saved.
At prom, every compliment and admiring glance made me feel radiant and confident. For a brief moment, it was as if my mom were right there with me, proud to see her daughter shining. That night turned into a celebration of true love and family unity, proving that even when everything seems against us, the caring gestures of those who love us can change the course of our lives.
What would you do if you found yourself in a situation like this?