“Of course I came.” Brianna’s excitement warmed Serenity’s heart, and she barely had time to brace herself before Brianna launched herself at Serenity, nearly knocking her over in her heels. Serenity hugged the little girl, whom she’d bonded with from birth. Serenity had been in Firefly Lake only three weeks and was still trying to get over her heartbreak when Pam and her husband showed up in the ER with Pam in labor. She had rushed out with a wheelchair, but the impatient child ended up being delivered right there in the back seat, and it was the most beautiful thing that Serenity had been part of in her entire career. As a result, she’d been invited to every birthday party and a few other celebrations, and Serenity felt as if she was an aunt of sorts. She disentangled herself from Brianna. “Let me see your pretty dress and hat.”

Brianna did a little pose and turned around slowly, to give the full effect of the pink dress. The pink ruffled socks and white patent leather T-strap shoes reminded Serenity of her own childhood. Then Brianna patted her pink hat adorned with small pink and white flowers.

“I love it. And you girls look beautiful, too,” she said to Tanya and Kaylee. The two girls beamed and did their own version of a fashion show. She held up the tote. “I’ve got food.”

A chorus of yays went up.

Pam held up a hand. “Okay, girls, let’s go out back and see what Ms. Wheeler has for lunch.” They took off running. “Walk, ladies.”

Serenity chuckled and followed Pam through the house to the backyard, where she had set an elegant table for six. “This is lovely.”

“Thank you. Do you need plates for the sandwiches and cookies?”

“No. I brought everything.” She started unpacking the tote and arranging the food on the fine white crystal china she’d brought and placed silver tongs on each one. She’d chosen the simple tableware to match whatever pattern Pam was using.

Moments later, a woman she recognized as Pam’s younger sister—whom Brianna had been named after—arrived wearing a bright tangerine dress and matching hat. The color complemented her almond-colored skin to perfection.

“Auntie Bri is here!” She passed out air kisses and took a seat at the now full table. “Brianna, did you make these delicious-looking sandwiches and cookies?”

“No, Auntie Bri,” she answered with a giggle. “Ms. Wheeler did. She said we’re supposed to have food with the tea.”

Bri leaned close to her niece. “She’s right, and I’m glad because I’m starving.” She smiled at Serenity. “It’s always good to see you, Serenity.”

“Same here.”

“Can we have the tea party now?” Brianna asked.

Bri patted her hand. “Sure thing, baby girl.”