the ground.
Gail moved first.
She took Brandon toward the driveway.
We’re leaving now.
He didn’t resist.
Diane stood beside the cake table with one hand on its edge, staring at the Walmart sheet cake as though it might explain what to do next.
Guests left in groups.
Quiet goodbyes.
Averted eyes.
Aunt Carol folded tablecloths without looking at my mother.
By 3:45, the backyard was empty.
Nobody cut the cake.
And no, I didn’t plan any of that.
I didn’t send Karen.
I didn’t know she would be
