Hearing people laugh seemed a cruel affront, an insulting reminder that the world carried on. Still, I tried to grin and bear it as guests congratulated and complimented me. You must be so proud! —so pretty, and a college girl, too— A real credit to you, Frances. I did take pride in Susanna. There she was, in her beautiful gossamer gown, looking for all the world like a redeeming angel. Thankfully, as the evening wore on, Susanna lost herself to the merriment, which meant I could slink away to splash some water on my face in the powder room.
