Corduroy

"Corduroy" by Ruth Comfort Mitchell is a story set after World War I. "Ginger" is trying to cope with the death of her brother while alone on her family's ranch. Her life changes when Dean, a friend of her brother's, arrives with a letter. This arrival stirs up many feelings and causes her to rethink her ideas about love and loss. At first, Ginger is sad and alone as Christmas approaches, but Dean's arrival brings a piece of her brother back to her, and it also awakens something within her. She is shown as strong and independent while managing the ranch and dealing with her grief. Unexpected guests arrive for the holidays. Virginia is faced with new relationships, especially with Dean. His presence brings up both admiration and confusion, leading her to face emotional challenges and change.