him first.
He answered after two rings, sounding cheerful.
He asked whether I’d seen his message.
I asked if they were seriously not coming. My voice stayed steady through sheer shock.
He explained they’d changed plans because it was easier. They were already at the restaurant.
I asked whether they were there right now.
Yes. Everyone had arrived, they’d sat down, and the menu looked wonderful.
I fell silent.
Then asked why.
Because Ava had cooked for three days. They’d agreed to celebrate at our house. She’d prepared twenty-three meals
