GRAHAM
“Surprise!”
I can’t close the door fast enough.
My siblings—and Claire—are already barging in armed with boxes of pizza, big printouts, and binders.
“It’s anniversary party-planning time!”
“I’m busy.”
“No, you’re not. We asked your secretary.”
“And I called the concierge before we came over.” Claire beams at me.
“I already told you that you can just spend whatever amount you want on the party. No budget,” I remind them as I trail them to my dining room. “What do you need me for?”
“Do you have soda?” Max asks me.
“No, I don’t have soda.”
“Have some water,” Ryan chides his younger brother.
“What about a Monster Energy drink?”
“I told you to order soda,” Shawn complains to Hannah.
“You have money. You can buy your own soda.”
“I don’t need it.” Hannah is already pilfering my wet bar. “Because I’m an adult, and I can drink!”
“Graham,” Shawn begs and flops down on the floor at my feet. “Please! I need soda!”
“That was cute when you were little. Now it’s just pathetic,” Ryan tells him.
“I really don’t need to be involved with the anniversary party planning,” I tell them helplessly as Bridget sets out plates and utensils.
“I think Mom and Dad would really appreciate it if we all participated in planning it.”
“Where’s Lulu?” Shawn complains from the floor.
“Ignore him.” Ryan hands me a drink.
“We can ask the concierge to send up sodas,” I finally offer begrudgingly, and I take out my phone to text the request.
“He has milk, though, boys. Maybe you could drink that. I’m putting the cupcakes in your fridge, Graham,” Claire calls.
“I would think you’d have soda for Dani. She likes soda,” Max complains, dragging himself to the table.
“Are you guys coming to the cabin again this weekend?” Hannah asks as she grabs a slice of pepperoni.
“I think Dani has to work.”
Ding-dong!
“I’ll get it. It’s probably the concierge. I told him to get an assortment,” I call over my shoulder as I head to the front door.
“Hey, bro.” Kraig sneers at me when I open the door. He shoves several bags at me.
