Chapter 8 - The Restaurant Changed ForeverA year after the incident, Daniel hosted another birthday dinner for Mom.
This time, the entire restaurant knew.
When Mom walked through the doors, everyone stood.
She laughed.
“Oh, stop that.”
Daniel shook his head.
“No.”
He handed her a microphone.
Mom stared at it.
“I told you I don't give speeches.”
“You don't have to.”
“Then why?”
“Because someone wants to say something.”
A young chef stepped forward.
It was Sophie.
She held a small cake.
On top were five words:
You Made Me Believe Again.
Mom cried.
Sophie hugged her.
Then Daniel approached.
“I've been waiting to tell you something.”
“What?”
He handed Mom an envelope.
Inside was a photograph.
It showed Daniel at twenty-two.
Standing outside the restaurant kitchen.
Skinny.
Nervous.
Wearing a borrowed uniform.
On the back was a handwritten note.
He needs a chance.
Mom recognized her handwriting.
“You kept this?”
“For fifteen years.”
She shook her head.
“You've kept everything.”
May you like
Daniel smiled.
“Some things are worth keeping.”
