The Enchanted Birthday: contos, #1

By Ricardo Almeida

Step into a world of imagination and heartwarming moments with the enchanting tale of Little Alice and her extraordinary birthday celebration. In this captivating narrative, written with a touch of magic, you'll find yourself drawn into the unique bond between a stern yet loving father and his imaginative daughter.

Picture a scene where dusty memories come to life in an old attic, as Alice discovers a worn blanket that becomes the centerpiece of her whimsical play. Watch as she transforms into a radiant countess, captivating her father with theatrical grace. Feel the tenderness in their relationship as he affectionately plays along, embracing the enchanting fantasy.

But as the story unfolds, emotions take a turn. Follow Alice on her journey to school, where she faces the harsh reality of childhood teasing. The narrative skillfully navigates through her vulnerabilities, introducing Vanessa, the compassionate janitor with a heart of gold, who becomes a beacon of comfort for Alice.

As the plot thickens, witness the storm clouds gathering over the small town, mirroring the turbulence in Alice's young heart. Vanessa's warm presence provides solace, turning the old cemetery into a haven where Alice finds understanding and support.

The story takes an unexpected twist when Alice's tormentors, once cruel, seek entry into her world. Vanessa, the guardian and confidante, skillfully handles the situation, blending wisdom with a touch of mischief. Feel the triumph as Vanessa defends Alice's sanctuary, transforming potential foes into intrigued guests.

As the narrative weaves through the girl's birthday preparations, experience the joy of anticipation and the beauty of a father-daughter bond. Emotions run high as Alice persuades her father to step back, revealing a deeper layer of his character. The story unfolds like a cherished memory, with Vanessa's thoughtful gift and the promise of a celebration in a place where friendship and imagination reign.

In the end, as Alice's birthday arrives, immerse yourself in the magic of the moment. Vanessa's heartfelt gesture, the father's unspoken love, and the joy radiating from Alice create a tapestry of warmth and connection. This is not just a story; it's a journey into the heart, where dreams, resilience, and the magic of friendship converge to create a truly unforgettable tale.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ricardo Almeida
• Release date: Nov 11, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223178460

Book preview

Table of Contents

The Enchanted Birthday (contos, #1)

Dad, come here.

Look.

Little Alice wrapped in an old dusty blanket, called her father.

She had found the blanket in the attic.

She needed a tall stool to climb up there.

The tall man entered the room and immediately grinned.

Hello.

The girl responded right away.

She ran closer and began to theatrically twirl around, striking extravagant poses.

Daddy, look.

I'm a real countess.

Alice draped the old blanket around herself like an evening gown, took a stick from

a mop as if it were a staff, and waved it in the air.

Ah.

You're my patron, the girl continued to show off in front of her father.

A smile spread across the perpetually stern man's face.

It's right, dear.

Absolutely right.

He bent down to kiss his daughter.

Now, my lady, off to the shower and then to bed.

School tomorrow.

The girl stopped, stomped her little foot, and yelled loudly.

No.

I will never go to school again.

Her father was surprised.

Why is that?

Just because.

She crossed her arms over her chest and turned away sharply.

I won't go, that's it.

He approached his daughter, squatted down, and looked into her eyes.

Alice, dear.

What happened?

She pulled the blanket tighter around herself and dropped it onto the floor.

Dust swirled around it.

Go wash up.

I'll tidy up here, the man said calmly.

Alice left for school.

She was dragging her backpack along, swinging it with force.

Dark storm clouds had gathered in the sky over the small town where the girl lived.

The wind picked up, tousling her light hair.

Today's events couldn't leave her mind.

The moment when her classmates used her backpack as if it were a sword in their games replayed

in front of her eyes.

The resentment was deeply embedded in the child's heart.

She tried, but she couldn't stand up to her tormentors.

Slowly, she reached the old local cemetery.

Passing through the gate, she kicked a nearby stone with force.

She screamed aloud in frustration, I hate it.

Who, dear.

A voice came from a distance.

The girl hadn't seen its source yet, but she already knew whose voice it was.

Alice's lips spread into a friendly smile.

Vanessa.

She ran up to the woman and threw herself into her arms.

Wearing her face in Vanessa's layers of clothing, the girl burst into bitter tears.

What happened?

Were they teasing you again?

Vanessa sat down in front of Alice.

She was a simple local janitor, uneducated but with a kind and compassionate heart.

She had been working at the cemetery for several years.

Vanessa felt sorry for little Alice.

The girl was growing up without a mother, and her father, Mr. Carter, was a very stern,

somewhat rough man.

Vanessa had known Alice since her childhood and tried to be both a mother and a friend

to the girl, roles that Alice had never really had.

Tell me, what happened?

Vanessa asked cautiously.

Wiping away her tears, Alice began to tell Vanessa about what had happened at school that

day.

Vanessa listened attentively, stroking Alice's head sympathetically.

It's okay, dear.

We'll figure something out.

Alice wiped away her last tear with her sleeve and vigorously nodded her head.

Oh, where's Dad?

The girl finally asked.

Mr. Carter, Alice's father, worked as a guard at this large cemetery.

He was often not at home.

That's why Alice spent most of her time right there, among old vaults and graves.

Her father scolded her often, saying, Sweetheart, go to the playground, play there.

There's no need for you to roam around these places.

Alice would always shake her head in disagreement.

She enjoyed spending time at the cemetery, especially since her favorite Vanessa was there.

Vanessa told her, Your Dad is over there.

She extended her arm and pointed to a large, old building.

It was something like a storage room, a big storage area with cemetery paraphernalia.

Alice referred to this place as the Little House.

Her Dad is busy there.

It's better not to bother him, Vanessa said with concern.

Darn it.

The girl pouted her chubby pink lips.

She had been looking forward to playing in that little house.

Since she had spent a significant part of her childhood at the cemetery, wreaths, coffins,

and similar things didn't scare Alice at all.

I thought we would play there together.

Alice said with a touch of disappointment.

Vanessa smiled.

She'll definitely play when your Dad finishes work.

Did you come straight here from school?

Haven't you been home?

Before Alice could reply, familiar, painfully cutting voices echoed from behind.

What did you come here for?

A group of children had gathered by the cemetery gates.

Alice's classmates simultaneously turned to look at her.

Hey, did you come here to steal candy from the dead?

Ha ha!

Begger.

Actually, kids.

Alice's Dad is in charge here, Vanessa intervened in the children's conversation.

And since her Dad is in charge, that means Alice is too, she said in a business like

tone, trying to reason with the mean-spirited kids.

The children fell silent.

They began to exchange glances and whisper to each other.

The tall boy, Alice's main tormentor, took a step forward.

He looked directly into Alice's eyes and said something she definitely didn't expect

to hear.

Cool.

You're lucky.

Can we come in?

We want to hang out in the