When she came out, the sky was already pitch dark.
The square was bustling with people coming and going.
The summer evening breeze brushed against her skin, a teasing comfort, neither cold nor hot, just perfect.
Jasmine Yale walked slowly; she went to the store to get Butler Santana a small gift.
Butler Santana was loyal to her, asking for nothing in return, and she treated her with motherly kindness.
Suddenly, Jasmine remembered her birthday was approaching.
There wasn't much of a Qixi Festival tradition abroad; she almost forgot her birthday. Walking down the street, she recalled it.
This year, the best birthday gift would be the baby in her belly.
She wasn't too particular about birthdays; when the time comes, she'll ask Butler Santana to make a few more dishes and bake a cake for herself.
The evening breeze swept over her, lifting her soft strands of hair.
Not lingering long at the square, she took the subway home.
