Chapter 13 - Sophia’s Eighth Birthday
Sophia did not want a ballroom.
“No.”
“A garden?”
“No.”
“Restaurant?”
“No.”
“What do you want?”
“Pizza.”
Roman stared.
“And?”
“Cupcakes.”
“And?”
“Six friends.”
“That’s all?”
“And Aunt Mara.”
“Obviously.”
“And Mom.”
“Yes.”
“And Luca.”
Roman sighed.
“Fine.”
Her eighth birthday took place in the backyard.
No politicians.
No judges.
No hidden doctors.
Ingredient lists were checked three times.
Mara checked four.
Sophia wore her repaired blue butterfly bracelet.
Before blowing out candles, she looked at Mara.
“You won’t slap my fork this time?”
Mara laughed.
“Probably not.”
Roman said:
“Do not encourage her.”
Sophia smiled.
Then blew out candles.
Everyone applauded.
Roman cried.
Luca noticed.
May you like
Roman threatened him.
Some traditions survived.
