His Countdown Ended, but I Died
She turned around and strode away after saying that, her posture rigid.
It was almost dusk, and the sky began to grow dark. Mom stepped out of the kitchen with a small basket filled with some crepe paper streamers, a handful of balloons, and a pair of scissors—everything she needed to decorate for Eli's birthday. She had just reached the living room when the doorbell rang.
It was Grandma, Nora Cole. She was carrying a bulging bag, and the moment she noticed Mom, she flashed her a reluctant smile.
"What brings you here, Mom?" Mom asked in surprise as she quickly moved to the side to let Grandma inside.