The Ultimate Soldier

Chapter 34: Alexander's 4th Birthday

A Quiet Celebration

Alexander had always been a thoughtful and introspective child, even at the young age of four. When Gigi and Simon started discussing how they would celebrate his birthday, they expected the usual excitement about having a big party with all of his friends. But to their surprise, Alexander had other plans.

"No big party, Mommy," he had told Gigi one evening, looking up at her with his big brown eyes. "I just want to be with you, Daddy, and my family. I don't need a big celebration."

At first, Gigi was a little taken aback. She had envisioned balloons, cake, and lots of friends running around, but she understood. Alexander had always been mature beyond his years. He valued quiet moments with his loved ones more than the flashy attention of a large celebration. She smiled, touched by his thoughtfulness.

Family Time

On the morning of Alexander's birthday, the house was peaceful. There were no extravagant decorations or bustling crowds; instead, it was just the close-knit family gathered together, enjoying each other's company. Simon had taken the day off from work, and Gigi had prepared a simple yet delicious breakfast—pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit, just the way Alexander liked it.

The living room had a few small touches to mark the occasion—a few balloons in his favorite color, blue, and a small cake with four candles, decorated with little cars and racing symbols, reflecting his love for toy cars. His birthday gifts were stacked neatly on the side, waiting for him to open.

The Moment of the Cake

When it was time for cake, Simon gathered everyone around. "Alright, buddy," Simon said, lifting Alexander into his arms. "Let's sing Happy Birthday to the birthday boy."

Everyone sang, and as the song came to an end, Alexander shyly blew out the candles on his cake, a small smile playing on his lips. Gigi snapped a picture, capturing the moment of pure joy on her son's face.

"Four years old already," she said softly, looking at Simon with love in her eyes. "I can't believe it. It feels like just yesterday we were bringing him home from the hospital."

Simon nodded, his heart full. "Time flies. But I'm proud of the little man he's becoming."

Gifts and Laughter

After cake, Alexander eagerly opened his presents. His eyes lit up when he saw the toy car set Simon had picked out for him, a collection of cars with intricate details and racing tracks. "Wow! Thanks, Daddy!" Alexander exclaimed, giving Simon a big hug.

Gigi's gift to him was a small, stuffed animal, a lion that Alexander had been eyeing for some time at the store. It was soft and comforting, and Alexander immediately named it "Roary," after his favorite animal.

"You're welcome, my little lion," Gigi said with a chuckle as she kissed the top of his head.

As the day continued, the family spent time together, playing games, watching movies, and enjoying the simple pleasures of being with each other. Simon took Alexander outside to play catch, showing him how to throw the ball in a gentle, yet playful way, while Gigi made sure that everything was relaxed and comfortable for her son.

A Thoughtful Birthday

As the day wound down, Alexander sat on the couch between Simon and Gigi, leaning his head against his mom's shoulder. "This was the best birthday," he whispered, his voice full of contentment.

Gigi smiled, her heart swelling with love. "I'm so happy you had a good day, baby."

Simon wrapped his arm around both of them. "It doesn't matter how big or small the party is, as long as we're together. That's what makes it special."

A Family's Love

The night ended quietly, with Alexander falling asleep in his parents' arms, exhausted from the excitement of the day. Gigi and Simon exchanged a look, both feeling deeply thankful for their son and the small, perfect family they had built together.

Though it had been a simple birthday celebration, it was exactly what Alexander had wanted—nothing extravagant, just a day filled with love, laughter, and togetherness.

And in that moment, as they looked at their son, they knew that there was no greater gift than the love they shared as a family.

To Be Continued...