Chapter 14: Eight Candles
May brought a flurry of excitement as Lily’s eighth birthday approached. It was the first birthday party they were hosting since Sarah’s passing, and David was determined to make it perfect.
He spent the entire Friday afternoon decorating the backyard, hanging colorful paper lanterns from the patio roof and setting up a bounce house on the freshly cut lawn. When Saturday afternoon arrived, the yard was filled with the chaotic, joyful sounds of a dozen second-graders hopped up on sugar and sunshine.
David stood by the grill, flipping burgers and watching Lily race across the grass with her best friend, Chloe. The silver locket bounced lightly against Lily's chest, a constant, comforting presence. She was laughing—a deep, uninhibited belly laugh that warmed David to his core.
When it was time for cake, they gathered around the picnic table. David lit the eight candles, their small flames flickering in the warm spring breeze.
May you like
"Make a wish, sweetie!" he encouraged.
Lily closed her hazel eyes, a look of serene concentration washing over her face. She took a deep breath and blew out all the candles in one strong gust. The kids cheered, and as David cut the cake, he knew he didn't need to ask what she had wished for. Looking at her radiant, smiling face, he knew she already had everything she needed right here.
