June’s voice came from the yard: “Where’s my girl! Grandma’s little birthday star!”
Balloons were up in the backyard, a long table with cake and juice. Neighbor kids, a few of June’s old friends, and Frank standing at the grill.
June wore a pale purple outfit today. Looked like a wall that could walk. She had Sophie by the hand, and she announced to the whole yard: “You want to know the biggest change in this family this year? My granddaughter grew. Grandma’s been with her every day — look how well she’s been raised!”
“Mom.” I stepped forward. “Let me hold her.”
June smiled and pulled Sophie closer to her side. “Mommy just got over being sick. Don’t want to wear her out. Grandma and Grandpa will hold her.”
“I’m not sick.”
“Okay, okay. Not sick, not sick.” Her voice was sweet, like she was humoring a child who didn’t know any better. “But Sophie knows, doesn’t she? Sophie knows how to take care of her mommy.”
