Grace finishes another stack of shaped pancakes, setting them in a warmer until the rest of the kids and their guests arrive. With nothing else on the stove for the moment, she can sidle next to Laura, observing the neat, precise motions of straw hulling. After three she takes the offered straw and mimics the gesture perfectly. Even hole, proper depth, no more green. "The next time I make a cheesecake, I'll have to try that."

Topped with stuffed, chocolate covered strawberries? It'd be a lovely way to end a meal. Once certain she has the right of it Grace nods to herself and works through a few more, one ear out for anyone new filtering in through the doors.