She had soft brown curls, a laugh that filled every room, and a face that brightened whenever someone said her name kindly.
Not everyone did.
Children pointed at her.
They copied the way she spoke.
They laughed when she struggled to keep up during games.
Whenever I saw tears forming in her eyes, I stepped in front of her like a tiny shield, my fists clenched at my sides.
Ben was the only other child who never hesitated.
He had been my best friend since kindergarten.
