I opened my tall metal locker and took out my heavy dress coat.

The fabric felt thick and stiff in my hands.

I ran my thumb down the front closure.

The heavy, polished feel of a brass uniform button pressed into my skin.

I undid the buttons.

I folded the sleeves in and rolled the coat from the collar down.

I wedged the tight roll into the bottom of my duffel bag.

“Did your family cause a riot at the gate?” Sarah asked.