Mirror Mirror

END

 A Birthday to Always Remember

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The birthday party is in full swing, with children running around and playing, their laughter filling the air. Marie and Julie sit together on a bench, observing the joyful chaos.

"Look, Julie, it's Gauche!"

They watch as Gauche walks through the gate, his presence immediately capturing the attention of the children. Memories of the previous birthday party resurface, causing some of the kids to stop and stare hesitantly.

Its tense.

The tall man seems to be clutching something in his pocket. His stare is intense and calculating. After what seemed like moments, he spoke:

"Where's the birthday boy?"

Kids of different sizes turned their head to the celebrant in question. The unease in their gaze only filled Kyle with suspicion. He slowly raises his hand, catching Gauche's attention. The mirror mage walks over to him and kneels down, presenting him with a wrapped gift.

"Erm, Happy birthday... Kyle."

Kyle, ignoring the awkward greeting, begins to tear open the wrapping, revealing:

"WOAH! This is amazing! How did you know Supermage is my favorite?"

The boy raises the action figure up high for all to see. The other kids begin gathering around trying to catch a glimpse at the rare model.

"Marie, told me. She thought you'd like it so you better be greatful brat."

Gauche stands up and turns to leave, but before he can, Kyle runs up to him and tugs at his sleeve.

"Gauche, please stay and play with us!"

Gauche glares at Kyle, resistant to the idea. "I don't want to play with you kids. Leave me alone."

To Gauches and possibly everyones surprise, the other children continue to gather around, giddy even, complaining and pleading with Gauche, trying to convince him to stay.

"Come on, Gauche! It's a party! You can't just leave!"

"I do what I want!"

"Youre tall! Can I stand on your shoulders?"

"THESE ARE MARIES PROPERTY ONLY!"

Marie quickly runs over to Gauche, accompanied by Julie. She looks at him with hopeful eyes.

"Gauche, please stay. It would mean a lot to me if you could play with us."

Gauche's stern expression immediately softens as he looks at Marie, he smiles with complete joy, "Of course Marie! Anything for you!"

The children sigh, seeing Gauche only agree to play when it was Marie asking him. Nevertheless,they gather around Gauche, eagerly awaiting his participation. Marie stands close to Gauche, a grateful smile on her face.

"Thank you, Gauche. You won't regret it, I promise!"

Gauche smirks, "Of course."

Gauche raises his hands and concentrates his magic. Suddenly, a large mirror appears in front of him, reflecting the children and the room. Gauche steps behind the mirror, and as if by magic, his reflection becomes distorted and exaggerated.

The children's eyes widen with amusement as they see Gauche's reflection appear wider, with a silly expression on his face.

"Look at Gauche! He looks so stupid!"