Red Birthday Roses For Sharone

by Joe
(Port Louis, Mauritius)

We’d been together since the last four months and it was her 18th birthday. I was only 21 at that time and she was my first real girlfriend. I knew her birthday had to be special, but as a newbie in the field, I wasn't sure what to do. Add-on to my trauma, I was completely broke.

I knew Sharone was not of the kind to be very demanding on gifts, but still I had to do something. I wanted to make her feel like it’s the first time she’s celebrating her birthday with a boyfriend. It had to be different.

We planned to meet at the university campus. I asked Sharone to meet up with me near the marshland which is found on the campus itself. It had been our secret garden these past few months. A lovely and peaceful place.

When Sharone came, I made as if I forgot her birthday. She asked me if ever I am not forgetting something and I replied “No, why?” She nodded and remained quiet.

After some minutes I told her “Hey darling, look at that packet.” There was a well wrapped plastic bag lying near the marshes. I stood up and went to fetch the bag. Sharone looked surprised. I brought the bag to her and there it was ... a beautiful bouquet of red roses. I wished her "Happy Birthday!"

She remained silent for some moments, then hugged me. It was simply magical.

Joe