Chapter 31

• The hum of cheerful voices filled Susan’s apartment as she moved through the crowded living room, trying to soak in the details. It wasn’t a huge party—just a handful of friends from the gym, a couple of coworkers, Samuel, and, of course, Caroline, who had insisted on planning the whole thing. Soft jazz played from the speaker, setting a relaxed tone as people mingled and chatted, balancing small plates of snacks and glasses of wine.
• “Happy birthday, Susan!” someone called from across the room, holding up a glass.
• She smiled, giving a small wave in return, warmth flooding her cheeks. She hadn’t had a party in so long, and while she’d felt hesitant about the whole idea, she was kinda glad now Caroline had pushed her into it.