I am seven years old at my cousin’s McDonald’s birthday party and I am Happy™.
I cheer the birthday girl as she opens and aahs her tower of unmemorable gifts.
Her Mommy materializes a promise pink suitcase. White-painted block letters parade purpose: Going to Grandma’s. My hard initiation to presents-inside-presents follows. Footed pajamas and a day outfit. A pouch with lip-gloss and her very own bath things. A favorite picture book to conjure candy-coated dreams.
I wish her smile to go the way of doomed balloons in the corner.
I wish I didn’t delight in this hive inside my heart.