The bright colors cheered her. She sensed her mother’s loving spirit nearby. Brooke stopped at Bob’s Bagels on Columbus and picked up an assortment plus smoked salmon and whitefish spread before heading over to Nan’s for brunch. Her heart was heavy as she rode up the elevator, dreading breaking the news to her grandmother. Am I a failure at twenty-eight? Dragging herself to the door, she heard the sound of laughter. Couldn’t be Nan’s? She rang the bell and was surprised when Pres opened the door. The barking pugs gave her a big greeting, jumping up and licking her face when she bent down. “Come on in. It’s a party.” Pres took her heavy bag and headed for the kitchen. “Brooke, darling, I’m so glad you’re here! We’re having a little birthday party for Mary. We’re not saying how old she is, but it’s a big one.” Brooke walked into the dining area and was greeted by four people. A tall, gorgeous cake frosted in white and sprinkled with coconut sat in the middle of the table.
