When You Were Young - Page 31/259

"Are you still hungry? I couldn't eat another bite," Prudence said. She pushed the plate towards Samantha, who accepted with a nod. Prudence continued to talk while Samantha ate. Next to her, Wendell nibbled at his, wiping his mouth with a napkin after each bite.

After everyone finished the cake and ice cream-there would be no leftovers for poor Helena and Phyllis-Mama Veronica shouted for everyone's attention. "Before we start opening the gifts, I would just like to say how pleased I am everyone could be here today to celebrate this moment." She put an arm around Samantha's shoulders. "Today my Samantha has become a big girl. Before you know it, she'll be all grown up." She kissed Samantha on a cheek stained with frosting. The other children, especially Prudence, cheered for her.

Tears came to Samantha's eyes. She couldn't imagine anyone ever having such a wonderful birthday.