That evening, Nevaeh called her grandfather to tell him she wouldn't be home for dinner.
After hanging up, she joined Nancy and Frances on their way to the outdoor party.
Nancy and Frances looked stunning in their elegant dresses, but Nevaeh, ever simple, wore a plain T-shirt and jeans.
As they arrived at the entrance, Frances gave her outfit another glance and sighed.
"Nevaeh, this is a party, not a grocery run. My house is nearby, I can have the driver bring you something nicer to wear," she offered gently.
Frances had tried several times that day to convince Nevaeh to dress up, but every time, she got the same answer.
"I really don't need to," Nevaeh said again, smiling faintly. "I'm just here to hang out with you guys."
Seeing that she wouldn't change her mind, Frances let it go, and the three of them stepped into the lively crowd together.
The outdoor venue was filled with laughter, chatter, and the glow of colorful lights.
