DANIT
onight’s meal was a secret for Dani’s birthday. Violet led her through the apartment blindfolded, Jack and Doris tailing behind. When they reached the kitchen door, Violet removed the bandana.
A few colorful balloons, tied with string, floated in the air from the back of the dining chairs. The kitchen table was covered in a plastic cloth and prepped for cooking with staples like flour and sugar, utensils, and mixing bowls. A dark wicker picnic basket with a red ribbon waited in the center.
“Doris, Jack, and I created you a basket!” Violet’s voice was high-pitched with excitement. “Like on Chopped!”
She handed Dani a white apron that featured shiny red apples. Dani laughed, tying it on. “I thought you guys were taking me out for pizza.”
“Don’t blame me.” Jack smiled and patted Da
