Nina moved through the school hall, the harsh fluorescent lights dimming her spirits despite the springtime warmth outside. Surrounded by laughter about prom and bright futures, she felt like an outsider—a shadow among her classmates. Known as the “pauper” since first grade, she endured cruel taunts about her worn shoes and hand-me-down clothes. Her most painful memory was when her parents struggled to buy her a pink dress for her birthday, only for it to be ridiculed and ruined at school.
After her mother’s death, home became a place of grief. As her father turned to alcohol, Nina worked hard to keep things afloat. With graduation approaching, she expressed a desire for a prom dress, but her father could only sigh.
Seeking fresh air, she confided in Inna, their kind neighbor. Inspired, Nina took a job at the local hospital. Despite bullying and exhaustion, she held on to the hope of attending prom. Her determination shone through, and in the end, she was crowned queen, finally embracing her strength and newfound path.
