The Unveiled Rose novel Chapter 40

Joyce settled next to Reuben and then patted the seat beside her. "Mom, sit here!"

I obliged and took my place next to her.

Turning towards me, Joyce whispered, "Make a wish."

I gazed at the flickering candlelight, closed my eyes, and silently wished.

‘I hope Joyce gets better soon and we can always be happy.’

After opening my eyes, I blew out the candles with all my might.

Joyce immediately snuggled up to me, her tiny body almost clinging to mine. "Mom, what did you wish for?"

I was about to respond when Reuben, not wanting to put me on the spot, chimed in, "Joyce, if you say your wish out loud, it won't come true."

Unable to hide her disappointment, Joyce pouted. "Okay, then."

Seeing her cute, sulking face, I couldn't help but smile and cut her a small piece of cake. "Have some food first."

With her cheeks puffed, Joyce said, "But Dad says we shouldn't have sweets at night; it's bad for our teeth."

It was a clear tattle on Reuben but also an explanation as to why she shouldn't eat the cake.

I looked at Reuben, and he coughed awkwardly. "Today is a special day, so you can have a little."

"Yay!" With Reuben's permission, Joyce's mood instantly lifted. She grabbed a big piece of cake with her fork and stuffed it into her mouth.

Her eyes gleamed with happiness. "This cake is so yummy!"

After serving Reuben a piece, I finally cut one for myself.

Raising her cake, Joyce's voice was sweeter than the treat. "Cheers!"