Keep Holding On

Birthday

November 13th, 2028

Malibu, USA

Liam's POV

"Hey dad?" Jessica asks, coming into the kitchen.

"Hmm?"

"I have a question."

"Will it take long? I'm making breakfast."

"No."

"Go ahead then." I say.

"Will mom be here for Cece and Leo's party? They're turning eight, it's kinda important to them."

"Jessica you know your mom is on tour, you know she's all over the world."

"I know, but it's just so important and Cece and Leo deserve-"

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but Jessica, do not make me feel bad about this, and don't make your mom feel bad either. Mom said she'd call today to wish them a happy birthday. I made sure she knows you kids wanna do a FaceTime call."

"Fine." She says.

"Is this about your birthday too?"

"Well yeah, sort of. My birthday is a little over a month away and I know mom won't be here for mine either. It kinda sucks."

"Jessica I'm sorry, I wish I could make it possible for mom to be here for everyone's birthdays."

"I know, and I know it isn't your fault. I know there isn't anything you or mom can do about it."

"Look at you being all grown up, I'm proud of you Jessica." I say with a proud smile.

"Can I go call mom before the party starts? I wanted to talk."

"I'm not sure if she'll be available. She's nine hours ahead of us. She might be getting ready for a concert."

"I'll make it quick I promise."

"It's your phone, I can't really stop you from calling your mom."

"Thank you so much." She says before she quickly makes her way to her room.

About five minutes later Jessica came out of her room looking disappointed.

"So how is she?" I ask.

"She couldn't talk long, she had important stuff to do..."

"I told you she probably wouldn't be able to talk. It isn't that her career is more important okay? Please know that."

"I know dad. Is breakfast done?"

"Yeah, go get your brother and sister."

Jessica went outside to get Leonardo and Cecilia. They all came back in and washed up before we all ate. After breakfast, the kids watched some TV while waiting for the party to start.

"When will you get the cake daddy?" Cecilia asks as I walk into the living room.

"The cake will get here soon ya little sugar monster."

"You're crazy enough without sugar Cece." Jessica jokes, making us laugh.

"I eat good food!"

"Yes because your mom and I make you all eat healthy. If it was up to you Cece, you'd have sugar everyday."

As we all talked there was a knock on the door.

"Hey kids, why don't you go answer the door."

"All three of us?" Jessica asks.