Celebrating A Birthday
There had been multiple invitations. Everybody wanted to be the host for this special occasion, no expense spared. Through the post came invitations galore- some powdered in star dust, others made from wood, and one was sealed with the Sun's kiss.
There had been leaves etched with symbols that only she could understand, a clock face that was stuck on only one time for one day, and a yellow egg that opened with a click to reveal a holographic ballroom.
Mary had replied to each one, thanking them all for their thoughtfulness. It always felt nice to be wanted. But she had other plans.
Expressing their condolences, they retreated, knowing that her mind had been Made Up. Besides, this was a day where she could do as she pleased- arguably, much like any other day.
Once the children had been put to bed and she had left for her Evening Out, she headed toward the city's art gallery. She had heard there was a certain exhibition being displayed there that had caught her interest.
The rooms were teeming with admirers and yet, nobody noticed her disappear in the midst of a crowd. Adults often overlooked the improbable. And so, she was free to roam her painting of choice, enjoying the silence that it brought. The calm.
Her clothes had faded into brush strokes, similar to the art style. The smart black coat and hat, alongside her maroon scarf, blended nicely with the background. Pleased with herself, she was busy admiring her reflection on the surface of the water when a sharp whistle caught her attention.
"Bert! You made it!"
His voice was muffled by her sudden embrace, his arms wrapping around her. "I wouldn't have missed i' for the world."
Even more pleased, she pulled back, linking their arms together. They mustn't forget propriety, no matter where they were.
"Where to now?" she questioned, sensing he already knew the answer.
"I think we can take a nice stroll across the river and along there…" He pointed out the lights reflected across the water, shining from squared windows. "There's a nice spot to sit and eat."
"Sounds wonderful."
They went on their way, talking about her day and his. How long it had been since they last saw each other (only four days) and the friends they had seen in the meantime. Mary couldn't have been happier. This was exactly how she had wanted to spend her birthday. It truly was a starry night over the Rhone and as they strolled alongside the riverside, her content smile was reflected across the rippled surface. Bathed in the gentle glow of moonlight.
If you look at the painting, there is actually a couple in the corner. So I'm going to pretend that's Mary and Bert.