The birthday celebration for Miss Shu lingered in everyone's hearts, giving them strength to face another week. Life had not grown easier, but the promise of hope helped the family move forward. Soon another special day arrived. This time, it was Aunt Suhei's birthday, and the family decided to make it a joyful event despite their worries.
Through careful planning, Yang and Goo hoped to bring some light to their aunt, who had been feeling sick and sad after weeks in the hospital. Aunt Suhei used to be the most cheerful woman in the family, always laughing, always making everyone feel loved. But sickness had made her quiet, and the family wanted to see her smile again.
Miss Shu started the day early, gathering what little she had to prepare a birthday feast. She borrowed flour from a neighbor and used some saved coins to buy fresh vegetables. Yang followed her with a basket, helping carry everything. Goo went out to collect firewood, his cheeks red from the cold air, his heart determined to make the day special.
Back home, Miss Shu mixed dough with warm water, kneading it with strong hands. She showed Yang how to roll dumplings and let him try shaping them, even though his first ones looked more like small balls than proper dumplings. Goo chopped green onions, careful to save every bit since food was so precious now.
While they worked, Miss Shu's husband watched from his chair, offering gentle advice. Sometimes he coughed, but he smiled when he saw his family busy together. "We can get through anything," he whispered, mostly to himself.
By midday, the little house smelled like home—warm dough, spicy onions, and boiling soup. Even people passing by on the street noticed and smiled. Goo and Yang set the small table with their best plates, using a blue cloth they found in the closet to make it look nicer.
The guests arrived slowly. Aunt Suhei was the first, wrapped in a big shawl, her smile tired but real. She hugged Miss Shu and the boys, thanking them for the party. Uncle Chao came next, bringing a tray of oranges, each one bright and perfect. Other relatives joined in, carrying homemade bread, a bottle of soy sauce to share, and a tiny cake for dessert.
Everyone squeezed into the living room, sitting close and laughing. The old radio played a soft tune in the corner. They tried to forget their troubles and focus on happiness—even for just a few hours.
Yang and Goo helped serve food, pouring soup into bowls, passing bread, keeping everyone's plates full. Aunt Suhei joked about Yang's funny-shaped dumplings, making the boy blush but happy. Miss Shu was busy but never let the smile fade from her face.
After the meal, the family gathered around the table. Goo stood up and cleared his throat. "Today is a day to forget sadness. Aunt Suhei, you have given us so many gifts. Today, we give you this party—a small thank you for all the love."
Aunt Suhei wiped her eyes and hugged Goo and Yang tightly.
Next, Miss Shu brought out the tiny cake. It was just enough for a few bites each, but the children sang a loud birthday song, and everyone laughed. Goo found a candle and stuck it in the cake, lighting it with a match. The flame danced in the cold air, and Aunt Suhei closed her eyes to make a wish.
"I wish for good health," she said softly. "And for this family to stay as close as we are now."
They all clapped and cheered.
But after the fun, the conversation turned serious. Uncle Chao asked about the surgeries. Miss Shu explained the money she had borrowed, and how she hoped to pay for at least one operation. There were quiet nods and worried looks around the room.
Aunt Suhei held Miss Shu's hand and said, "You have always helped others. Now it's our turn to help you."
The relatives started giving small amounts—spare coins, a folded bill, a promise to ask friends. The family counted the money on the kitchen table, and though it was not enough, it was a start. Miss Shu felt warmth flow through her heart, thankful for every tiny gift.
Later, when everyone left, Miss Shu and her boys started cleaning. Goo looked at his mother and said, "We will find more ways to help. I can get a part-time job after school."
Yang piped up, "I can help too! Maybe I can sell drawings or help carry groceries for the neighbors."
Miss Shu hugged both tightly. Even in hard times, her children's love and courage gave her strength.
That night, after the party was cleaned up and the dishes washed, Miss Shu sat quietly by the window. Her husband joined her and took her hand.
He said, "You have taught our sons how to have strong hearts. No matter what happens, love will guide us through."
Miss Shu nodded and felt a tear slip down her cheek—not just a tear of sadness, but of hope.