Chapter 44: Birthday Surprises

On the morning of Jenny’s birthday, Cole got up early, pleased to see that the cot was empty. Passing her bedroom, he saw that she was curled up and sleeping soundly. From his spot on the rug beside the bed, Blue lifted his head in greeting, then rested it on his paws once again.

Downstairs in the kitchen, Cole made a few preparations, then whipped up a batch of chocolate chip pancakes. Stacking some on a plate, he stuck a sparkly purple birthday candle in the center. Then he grabbed a lighter and carried the plate upstairs.

Rays of early morning sunlight shone on Jenny’s red locks splayed across her pillow, making it look like her hair was on fire. Not for the first time, Cole thought about how pretty she was.

He flicked the lighter and lit the candle before launching into a loud, off-key rendition of the birthday song. Jenny shifted and blinked her eyes open. Her mouth formed an O in surprise as she pushed herself up.