GABRIEL
Just as I am about to exit, my niece and nephew come running towards me, filled with excitement. “Uncle! Uncle! Uncle! Happy birthday!”
“I guess you can’t run now,” Erick jests, and I shoot darts at Erick.
I walk with them towards the pool area greeting my mother and sister.
“My little champion, happy birthday.” My mother approaches me, planting a tender kiss on my cheek. “You are as handsome as always.”
“Thank you, mother,” I reply coldly.
“My turn now,” my sister claims, running towards me. “Happy birthday grumpy, may there be plenty more.”
“Thanks doll.”
My father glances at me without saying a word, and heads towards the Hanz family. Mrs. Erme Hanz greets me, as sweet as usual. She is nothing like her daughter and husband.
“Happy Birthday Sweetheart. May God bless
