No DIA DAS MÃES, meu pai ME DEU UM TAPA na frente da família — minha irmã destruiu o

The entire hall smelled of expensive flowers and overly sweet perfume. I remember this because it was the last normal thing I felt before my life turned upside down. Golden lights reflected off the giant chandeliers of the Campinas Imperial Club as waiters crisscrossed the space carrying trays of sparkling wine. There was live music, a huge sign that read “NIGHT OF EXEMPLARY MOTHERS,” and almost six hundred people scattered among tables covered with white linen tablecloths. My sister loved extravagance. Karolina always believed that money needed to make a lot of noise. I stood near the side entrance, gripping my purse strap so tightly my fingers ached. My navy blue dress was simple compared to her friends' sparkly outfits, but it was the best I could afford after months of saving money. I was tired.