Continuing on with the next chapter of “Independence Day” — back to Cilla’s POV. I did some editing to fix the line length–any feedback is much appreciated. I hope to be finished with the story soon and ready to submit it for an anthology…
The day before my birthday is a Saturday, and Ana greets me with a present and pancakes she made. The oddly-shaped pancakes are topped with syrup and red, white and blue sprinkles. She sings “Happy Birthday” before presenting me with a small box. I open it and find sparkling, dangling earrings made of red, white and blue beads.
“Ana—they’re beautiful! But it’s not my birthday ’til tomorrow.”
Ana smiles and her big, brown eyes sparkle. “I know. I couldn’t wait!”
I try them on and decide to wear them tomorrow. I’m looking forward to the festival, but I remind myself to be careful not only about the high heels, but with my heart.
I smile at Ana across the breakfast table. When the doorbell rings, she jumps up to answer it and shouts out, “Grandpa!”
“Dad? Oh, my God!” I rush through the hall and embrace him as tight as I can. Ana finds her way into the circle and we both hug her, too. “What are you doing here?”
“Can’t your old man come to Colorado and wish you a happy birthday?”
That’s it for this week…I think Ana’s dad is trying to make amends.
Laugh With Me 
A great birthday gift!
Thanks for reading–it was a nice surprise–I love when my characters do stuff I don’t expect.
Seems like a very Happy Birthday going on here, down to the smallest detail. Great snippet!
Aww…
(And I’m horrible about waiting to give presents too — which results in a lot of last minute shopping.)
I am curious as to the real reason for his arrival, though.
Thanks for reading, P.T. I always want to give out presents as soon as I buy them. He’s got things to say to Cilla.
Wonderful birthday. She seems surprised he would show up. I’m curious to know more.
Thanks for reading, Karen. Gregory’s got some ‘splainin’ to do.
Two lovely surprises. What a nice birthday.
Thanks for reading, Elaine–love those kind of birthdays.
Aww. Love that Ana was so eager that she couldn’t wait.
Thanks for reading. Gotta love Ana!
Aww … so true, I don’t think there’s a child in this world that is able to wait 🙂 Lovely snippet and nice for her dad to come too