“What exactly are we celebrating?” I asked.
She looked at me with an expression that suggested the answer should have been obvious. “Your welcome-home celebration, of course.”
I stopped myself from reacting too quickly, then turned to her in disbelief.
“No. Definitely not.”
Irene's smile faltered slightly. “Why not?”
“Because it's unnecessary, Irene. I don't need a celebration simply because I've returned from visiting my family for a few days.” I resumed walking, hoping that would be enough to put an end to the discussion. “Besides, there's a lot going on right now. I don't think organising a gathering is a priority.”
“I didn't say it was a priority,” she replied, keeping pace beside me. “I said it would be nice to do something different for a change.”
“Irene.”
“What?” She looked
