A rented bounce house sagged and rose with the weight of screaming children.

The cake table was covered with cupcakes, paper plates, glittery napkins, and a big frosted cake with Lily’s name written across the top.

ButCalendars.

Deadlines.

Contracts.

People who lied for money and at least had the decency to put it in writing.

Then her sister’s social media story put a picture of Lily in front of her, and the controlled part of her life ended.

Victoria called Beatrice immediately.

Beatrice answered with music exploding behind her.

“Victoria! Oh my god, the timing!” she said, sounding breathless and bright. “We’re just getting ready to kick off the big bash!”

Victoria did not ask about the cake.

She did not ask about the decorations.

She did not thank her sister for hosting the party while she was overseas for work.

“Why is Lily sitting all the way at the back?” Victoria asked. “And why is she wearing that sweater outside? It’s too hot for that. Is she sick?”