Strange as IT Seems

Chapter 72: Celebrate

"Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday to you..."

Mia is turning red as her grandparents sing to her over the phone. She smiles and laughs while also being embarrassed.

When the song finally comes to an end, she wipes a few tears from her eyes and continues to smile widely.

"Thank you, Grandma. Thank you, Grandpa," she says.

"We love you, Amelia. We're so proud of you," Grandpa Zeke says.

"I know the road hasn't always been easy, but you've always been a fighter," Grandma Marion adds.

"But today let's celebrate you becoming an adult," Zeke exclaims jovially.

"And to your future as the bright young woman we know you are becoming."

"I really wish you guys could be here," Mia smiles.

"I know Sweetheart, once everything is ready for the winter and I find someone to watch the property, we will come and visit. It might be closer to Christmas, but I promise we will." Her grandfather vows.

"Your grandfather and I have your gift ready for when we do visit."

"You guys didn't need to get me anything," the young adult says humbly.

"Then what are birthdays for?" Zeke chuckles.

Georgie tugs at Mia's sleeve, wanting her attention.

Mia covers the mouthpiece. "Just a sec, Squirt."

"Tell Grandma I got an A on my spelling test," he says.

"You can talk to them in a minute, Kid, just wait," she says a little impatiently.

"And tell Grandpa I'm ready to beat him at War."

Mia sighs.

"Georgie, get over here," his mother says, grabbing his arm and guiding him away from his cousin's conversation.

Sharon continues to cook up a storm in the kitchen, making Mia's favourite meal and working like a well-oiled machine. Chicken, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob. While they'd given her the choice to take her out to eat or have a meal at home, their niece had chosen the latter, and now it was a matter of getting things ready.

Zack is currently outside grilling the chicken and the corn on the cob on the barbecue, the last meal before he puts it away for the winter.

"But Mommy!" he protests.

"You'll get a chance to talk to your grandparents soon, but remember that today is Mia's special day and she'd like to talk to them alone. So, while you're waiting, come and help me."

Georgie groans in annoyance.

"Come put the candles on your cousin's cake. Remember, we need 18."

"I know," he says sassily.

"Watch your tone, young man," she warns before pulling the stool over for her youngest son to climb up and put the candles on.

Bill finishes setting the table for dinner and decorating the dining room, including blowing up several balloons and hanging streamers.

"D-Does it look okay?" he asks his mother.

"It looks great, Bill," Sharon says, barely glancing at it. "Now, please come help me mash the potatoes. Georgie, after you're done, put the butter on the table."

"I love you both a lot," Mia says into the phone. "I can't wait to see you again."

"We love you too, Amelia," Grandma Marion smiles.