CHAPTER 127 BLOCK PARTY

Madeline stood in the corner of Marjorie's garden, watching the other women laugh and chat. She couldn't shake off the feeling of irritation that had settled over her since the start of the block party. It didn't help that Marjorie, with her perfect garden and easy charm, seemed to be the center of attention. Marjorie’s garden seemed to be the largest in the block with well tended flowers. It was a vision of meticulous care and natural beauty. The moment one stepped through the arched gate adorned with blooming jasmine, they were greeted by a riot of colors. Rows of roses, lilies, and daisies lined the pathway, their petals vivid against green leaves. In one corner, a well-tended vegetable patch thrived, with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers in various stages of ripening. Herbs grew in neat clusters, filling the air with the fragrant scents of basil, thyme, and rosemary. Madeline could tell that Marjorie spent her time tending to her garden like babies. Her eyes caught the charmin