My daughter was mocked for standing alone at the father-daughter dance — until a group of Marines walked into the gym.

shoes flashing.

Katie’s steps slowed as we entered.

“Ready?”

“Do you see any of your friends?” I asked, scanning the crowd.

“They’re all busy with their dads.”

We edged around the dance floor, sticking close to the wall. Every few steps, people glanced at us, at me in plain black, and at Katie’s too-brave smile.

A girl from continue reading …