Leilani picked up her fork and lifted a strand of noodles. They had the perfect bite, the broth was savory and fragrant, and the egg was cooked just right, its yolk still soft and runny.
A cake and noodles. Leilani wondered what ungodly hour Yvonne must have started her work.
Looking up, Leilani felt a pang of concern for her. “What time did you even start all this? Baking a cake, then making noodles… You really didn’t have to go to all this trouble. I don’t even care that much about my birthday.”
Yvonne shook her head obediently. “It’s not as dramatic as you think, Leilani.” Making the cake was a bit time-consuming, she admitted, but it was only once a year. After everything Leilani had done for her, from her recovery to helping her after she ran away from home, pulling an all-nighter was nothing.
As for the noodles, that was much simpler.
“I used a chicken broth base,” Yvonne explained, pointing at the bowl. “I started it last night, so this morning I just had to finish the soup and cook the noodles.”
So, Leilani had no reason to feel guilty.
Leilani knew Yvonne was trying to ease her mind. A warmth spread through her as she took another bite. “It’s delicious.”
Yvonne’s eyes curved into crescents. “That’s good! I was worried it might be too bland…”
Leilani shook her head. “No, it’s just right.”
The two ate their breakfast in comfortable silence as sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the table.
But Leilani had no idea this was only the first surprise of the day. The second one arrived shortly after.

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