It wasn’t the cake I had spent all day making with my own hands, but in that moment, it was absolutely perfect. James lit nine colorful candles while I dimmed the lights. Together, we sang “Happy Birthday” with all the love in our hearts.
Sophie’s genuine smile returned, shy but radiant, and when she closed her eyes to make her wish and blew out every single candle, I saw that beautiful sparkle return to her eyes.
Later that night, after the last crumbs of cake had been eaten and Sophie had fallen asleep clutching her favorite new toy, James and I sat together in our quiet living room. He reached over and took my hand in his.
