I finished the cake without really knowing what I was doing. I was a fabulous cook so I didn’t worry too much. All I could think was that Lee was in the same room as that package.

“That smells delicious.” I didn’t bother to jump anymore; I had gotten used to his sudden appearances ever since I moved here from home. “I can’t wait til everyone comes and can taste it.” I managed not to visibly flinch at the thought of everyone being in the same room as me when I opened the package.

“Uncle Lee?” I intoned a sweet edge to my voice and tried to look as though I didn’t have an ulterior motive. “Do you think I could open a present before everyone came? Please?”

“Well,” I could see that there was a “no” possibility and I batted my eye lashes. ‘Push-over,’ I thought when I saw him melt at my act. “Of course, darling. It is your birthday, after all.”

Not even bothering with thanks I ran into the living room and snatched the present up. I flew up the stairs and threw it on my bed, ‘Now what?’