Chapter 264 Epilogue — Part Ii

• Ava
• As the balloon hit me square in the face, I stumbled back, nearly losing my balance. Chris’s strong arm caught me, steadying me as a chorus of “Surprise!” filled the air.
• Our living room had been transformed, covered with balloons and streamers in shades of blue and silver. A banner hung across the fireplace, proclaiming “Happy 40th Birthday, Ava!” in glittering letters. And there, gathered around with broad grins on their faces, were the people I loved most in the world.