Then a letter bearing the crest of the college where I had planned to study social work.
My chest tightened.
I unfolded it.
Dear Ms. Hart,
We understand that unexpected family circumstances may affect your ability to enroll for the fall semester…
I stopped.
Looked at Denise.
“What is this?”
Her face had gone pale.
“Keep reading.”
I did.
The scholarship committee had reviewed a request for deferment.
My scholarship, the letter explained, could be held for one academic year.
Tuition support would remain intact.
Housing assistance could be reconsidered upon enrollment.
I read the paragraph twice.
Then a third time.
“I never requested a deferment.”
“I did.”
I stared at her.
“You what?”
“I called the admissions office after I left Ethan with you. They said they couldn’t discuss your file with me, but they told me how you could request a deferment. I wrote a letter explaining there was a family emergency and asked them to contact you.”
