For the second year in a row, Steve threw a birthday party for Carmon. They’d become closer friends and double-dated a lot. Because of work schedules, the party was on September nineteenth. Advanced planning meant a bigger crowd.
Like the last time, Autumn and Marc did a lot of the cooking, but at Jeannette’s condo with the awesome kitchen. Adam met them at the party and timed it so the foursome arrived simultaneously. About twenty-five people showed up.
Carm greeted all of them with hugs, sincere hugs. “Hey, I’m really glad you folks came, and I truly appreciate all the food you made. You guys are awesome!” His smile crinkled his eyes. He seemed happier than they’d ever seen him.
Adam whispered to Marc, “I think Steve’s been a good influence on him.”
Marc retorted, “So has she.”
A Ja
