I was speechless. How did she know? I hadn’t told anyone about the stolen money except for Alex. As if reading my mind, Mrs. Thompson handed me a folded note. It was from Alex, and it simply read, “You deserve magic. See you tonight.”

“But how?” I stammered, overwhelmed by emotions and the turn of events.

Mrs. Thompson chuckled, “Well, Alex might have mentioned a little something to his mom, and you know how news spreads in this town. We all pitched in to make sure you have your night.”

She opened the garment bags to reveal not one but three dresses. Each one was more beautiful than the last—a blush pink gown with delicate lace, a classic black number with a satin finish, and a deep emerald dress that seemed to shimmer even in the morning light. My fingers brushed over the fabrics, and I could hardly believe my eyes.

“I thought you might like the emerald,” Mrs. Thompson said, noticing my gaze. “Your mom loved that color on you.”

Tears welled up in my eyes as I nodded, unable to speak. The shopping bag contained a pair of silver heels, a clutch, and a set of makeup essentials. It was everything I had dreamed of and more.

Mrs. Thompson spent the morning with me, helping me get ready. She styled my hair into soft curls and applied my makeup with a gentle hand, all the while sharing stories about my mom, making me feel her presence even more.

When I finally stood in front of the mirror, dressed in the emerald gown, heels adding a few inches to my height, I didn’t just see a girl ready for prom. I saw a girl ready to embrace the sparkle her mom always wanted for her.

That evening, as I stepped into the decorated school gym with Alex by my side, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Not just for the dress and the magical evening, but for the people who reminded me that community and love could light up the darkest of nights.

My night to sparkle was not just a dream fulfilled but a testament to the kindness of others—and the enduring love of a mother who watched over me from beyond.