Hopeful Lovers

Part 4

Avis lifted Phoenix onto her hip, straightening his sky blue dress shirt as she went. She buckled him securely into his baby seat, and gave him a bottle of almond milk. He began sucking on it greedily as soon as it he got it into his hands, obviously loving the moment. Avis kissed him on the forehead and sighed. 

She went around to her seat, buckled herself in, started the engine, and gripped the steering wheel. Avis glanced over at the seafoam green present beside her on the passenger seat and pressed her lips together, remembering that green was Tyrrell's favorite color. Avis looked away, and focused on the road. It was sunny, with not a cloud in sight.

They reached Beatrix's house just in time. There were several cars parked in front of her large house, with a maroon porch swing and neatly potted plants everywhere. Avis pushed open the door, and the sound of laughter and the smell of lavender engulfed her. 

She carried Phoenix into the house, which was decorated with pale blue and purple balloons. A marbly blue and purple banner hung on the back wall of the living room, which was cleared of furniture for the party. The banner read "Happy 49th birthday,Bea!!!" in cursive letters. 

Avis let out a faint smile. Beatrix always went all out with parties. Huge clusters of crocuses were placed strategically on every tabletop. 

Lots of relatives and friends milled about with flutes of champagne in hand, and overall having a good time. A deep cherry table was pushed up against the wall, under the banner, overflowing with presents. Avis placed her present on the table, alongside all the others. 

Phoenix reached out towards the table, drawn towards the sparkly wrapping papers and cards. "I want. I want, Mommy." he cooed. Avis stroked his hair. "No, darling. Not today. These are for Granny."