I insist that Petra stay at the inn for the night and that she attend my party. There’ll be plenty of food, and the price will be right. There is even a cake, thanks to Jenny’s baking, though it’s nothing like the birthday cakes of my old world.

I don’t much care, though. It’s a celebration for me, for George, and for Mom, though the emphasis this year is on me, since I’m the one who is no longer a Child. George is excited, and opens his presents first, which is traditional for ...