ch11) later 10pm

“…for Greg, a new member of the society. We have a special welcome balloon for you Greg! This year’s design is, I think you’ll agree, one of the most interesting we’ve ever had. The salmon pink and the mint go so beautifully together. Come on up, Greg.”
To deafening applause Greg walks to the front to receive his balloon.
“Congratulations!
“We are also awarding the second prize in our beauty contest - the mesmerising memorial balloon for services to beauty – to Zobe.”
Zobe blushes and hurries to the front. Treading in something warm and squishy, Zobe realizes with regret that she neglected to put on any shoes today.
“Treasure it most carefully and let it bask in your beauty. Truly this is the most amazing balloon ever.”
“So what was the first prize then, if this is the most amazing balloon ever?” asks Zobe.
Confused, the alifonts look at each other. “We’ve never actually awarded a first prize,” mutters Phil, shuffling self-conciously.
There is an awkward silence.
“And for everybody here today we have a golden SSAB (secret society for the appreciation of balloons) 20th anniversary balloon. These really are something else.”
He hands out the shiny balloons with glee. There is a lot of pushing and shoving and treading on each others' feet. But eventually it seems that everyone has one.
“OK!” shouts Phil, over the chattering, “it’s time for the jelly and ice cream. Who wants?”