Chapter 33 Birthday

• The entrance was a performance.
• Cameras flashed in controlled bursts as we stepped out of the car. Sam's hand sat at the small of my back with just enough pressure to look affectionate. His parents and mine arranged themselves for the expected photographs. Danielle stood a little apart in a deep emerald dress that caught the light every time she moved. When she saw me, her face opened with genuine pleasure.
• My dress was a darker, quieter green. The cut was precise, the fabric heavy enough to hold its own shape. Standing beside her we looked intentional, almost matched. Danielle had clearly planned it that way.