"Mom," Nora said with a helpless smile, "is this Grandpa's birthday party or my personal matchmaking event?"

"Why can't it be both?" Eleanor replied, her tone light and carefree. "Just keep an open mind, okay? My gorgeous and talented daughter could snag a boyfriend in no time."

Nora let out a defeated sigh. "Alright, alright. You go play matchmaker. I'm going to find Elaine—she even brought Grandpa a gift."

She used me as an excuse to escape and ...