Tears streamed down two sides of her smile.
A palm covered her mouth and the base of her nose as she listened to Sarkon's gentle breathing.
Her brief silence seemed to confuse her hulk. “Maria?"
She removed her palm, quietly took in a deep breath, and muttered, “Thank you, Sarkon."
“For what?" The iciness continued.
“For wishing me a happy birthday," Maria chuckled, suddenly realizing that it was possible to laugh and cry at the same time.
Sarkon sighed. “I always wish you on your birthday, Maria. You know that."
But things are different now, Maria argued silently. You have a girlfriend, and I am finding a husband.
“You're right," she whispered and wiped her cheeks with the back of her hand.
“What do you want for your birthday this year?"
Maria covered her phone's speaker
