Chapter 15

“Happy belated birthday,” Alexandra McCartney, known simply as Alex to close friends and relatives, shouted with excitement.

Chandra, who was standing at the door, had to blink twice and tell herself she wasn’t really seeing things. Good Lord! Alex was right here in front of her. She couldn’t believe it.

“Alex! Oh my God! You’re early!” she shrieked in delight. So excited, she jumped up and down in her spot and then rushed toward her friend, her arms wide open.

Alex gripped Chan in a tight hug and said, “I know. But that’s not important. What’s important is you’ve finally turned twenty-five like the rest of us,” she teased and then laughed merrily as they embraced.

Chan chuckled as they withdrew from each other’s arms. “Well, yes. But let me tell you. It’s not easy being the baby of the bunch.” She was referring to their clan of friends since childhood: Ruby, Nikkita, Isabella, and Georgina.

The merry six had attended the same kindergarten and elementary school. Then, of course, Georg