Marlene’s post was short. Under the photo of Hailey in the sapphire dress, she had written: “My granddaughter was told there was no money for prom. Grandma found some. Some people in this family spend $750 on one girl and say ‘budget’ to another.” By the time Curtis called, forty relatives and half of Tilden had read it. His voice shook. “Mom, take it down. Brenda is furious.”

I put him on speaker so Hailey could hear. Marlene took the phone from my hand at a red light. “I will not take it down,” she said calmly. “Every word is true.” Silence filled the car. Then Curtis said quietly, “Mom, I need to tell you something about the money, and you will not like it.”