A Surprise for Nina

On Friday Nina was going to turn twenty-three, and her friends were determined to give her a surprise party. Julia, Owen and Perry met at a café to plan it. There was no free table, so a waiter led them to a seat at the back. “This will do,” Perry said. “It’s quiet.”

“Let’s have the party at my flat,” said Julia. “Shall we invite the whole class?” Perry asked. “No, only a few friends,” said Owen. “Nina prefers small parties.” Julia agreed and wrote a list of eight names on a napkin.

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

Julia looked at the list again. “Is there anything else we need?” “Somebody has to keep Nina away from the flat until seven,” said Perry. “I’ll do it,” Owen offered. “I’ve got nothing to do in the afternoon.” They all laughed with relief.

Before leaving, the three friends went over the plan once more, because nobody wanted to forget anything. On Friday at seven, Nina opened the door and heard a shout of “Surprise!” She was so astonished that she could not say a word.