The whole class erupted in laughter. It was a wave of noise that hit me physically, like a punch to the gut. I looked at Mrs. Gable for help, but even she was chuckling, shaking her head as she graded papers.

“That’s a… very creative imagination, Emily,” the teacher said, not looking up. “But this assignment is for real careers. Maybe next time pick something grounded in reality, like a nurse or a teacher. Sit down.”

“But she is!” I protested, my voice trembling. “She’s… she’s not around much because she’s deployed. She works for a group called DEVGRU. She told me—”

“She told you a fairy tale so you wouldn’t cry when she left you with the nanny,” Sarah sneered. “Face it, Emily. Your mom probably just works at the cafeteria on the base.”

I sank into my chair, branded a liar. I didn’t cry—Mom taught me better than that. “Tears are for the safe zone, Em,” she used to tell me. “In the field, you lock it down.” But the shame burned hotter than fire. I wanted to disappear. I wanted the floor to open up and swallow me whole.