James went downstairs and greeted her a simple "Happy Birthday." Alyssa mentioned the eggs and complimented how great they were, to which he nodded slightly in response. The sister was slightly disappointed that James still wasn't talking to her normally, but she understood it's a long process--and rightfully so. She was gone for seven years after all. That's still got to hurt, not to mention their verbal exchange yesterday. She was being too hopeful, thinking it can be magically resolved in a day.

It was, perhaps, wishful thinking in her part. A miracle she wistfully wanted to happen in her birthday.

"You didn't invite anyone, right? I only want to...