[Paul follows her sweep across the room with a little amusement and a greater part of fondness: he's used to not knowing all of the people at his own birthday parties, but he's used to them being there for reasons more convoluted than free alcohol and offerings of cake.]

I counted the days for mine. It seemed simplest.

[Technically, it was a month ago, but he'd been otherwise preoccupied on the day of.]

I hope we have enough food for everyone. I was expecting something a little quieter. Which I am now realizing was also part of the plan.