What followed was three hours of social warfare disguised as community fundraising.
By noon, their table had sold out completely. Mrs. Chen's architectural cake masterpiece still had half remaining. Victoria Winters's professional pastries sat largely untouched, a monument to the fact that presentation couldn't compensate for the lack of authenticity.
"We won," Kai said, staring at their empty platters with something like awe.
"We survived," Marcus corrected.
"Same thing," Samantha said, already packing up their containers.
Dr. Cross appeared one final time, making notes. "Excellent work. Authentic engagement, appropriate prioritization, genuine connection with your children's peer community. That's going in my report."
"The good report?" Kai asked.
"The 'these parents are more competent than they realize' report." She smiled. "Keep surprising me."
The drive home should have been triumphant. Instead, it was quiet.
Too quiet.
