Claire took a deep breath. “Lily saw a show about kids helping raise money for other sick children. She didn’t understand everything, but she got it in her head that she wanted to be like them—brave and helpful. She asked me if she could donate her hair to help make wigs for children with cancer. I should have talked to you, and certainly to Lily again to make sure she really understood. I was just so caught up in her enthusiasm that I… I didn’t think it through.”

Evelyn’s stern expression softened slightly as she listened. “Did Lily truly want this?” she asked gently.

Claire nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. “She was so excited, Evelyn. I promised her it would grow back and that she’d be able to help someone in need.”