I watched her walk to the carpeted steps.

Douglas Kingsley sat at the next table, swirling his champagne.

He laughed at something and didn’t look at his daughter.

Samantha put one arm around Evelyn.

“Everybody, my mother-in-law has been so brave this year.”

A few guests clapped.

Evelyn’s chin came up.

Then Samantha’s hand moved to the hairpiece.