A Surprise for Nina

On Friday, Nina is going to be twenty-three, and her friends want to organise a surprise party. Julia, Owen and Perry meet at a café to plan it. There is no free table, so the waiter shows them a seat at the back. “This is fine,” Perry says. “It is quiet.”

“Let’s have the party at my flat,” says Julia. “Shall we invite the whole class?” Perry asks. “No, only a few friends,” says Owen. “Nina prefers small parties.” Julia agrees. She writes a list of eight names.

“Who will bring the music?” Julia asks. “The speaker is mine,” says Owen, “but I need a little time to make a playlist.” “Why don’t we ask Nina’s sister for ideas?” Perry says. “She knows all of Nina’s favourite songs.”

Julia looks at the list again. “Is there anything else we need?” “Somebody has to keep Nina away from the flat until seven,” says Perry. “I will do it,” says Owen. “I have nothing to do in the afternoon.” They all laugh.

At the end, the three friends check the plan once more. Nobody wants to forget anything. On Friday at seven, Nina opens the door and hears, “Surprise!” She cannot say a word.