The next morning, the air in the house feels cool. I should have taken that as another sign. I wake up early with the anticipation of telling Alex happy birthday.
I know his parents are planning a small, intimate breakfast celebration in spite of his wishes to be left alone. I helped them put up a few balloons the night before, and I hope this will lighten his mood a little.
Honestly, I was surprised they thought to ask me to help, especially Mr. Hewlett. It made me feel included, like maybe they don’t disapprove of me being here after all.
I was surprised to see Rita in the kitchen this morning, arranging plates on the table, a birthday breakfast of eggs, sausage, bacon, and biscuits and gravy spread across it, as if omitting cake made it a little less of a celebration.
I made Ale
