Chapter 61 Mia

• "Happy birthday!" Their voices echoed, but I could hear Tracy, Hannah, and Josh the loudest. Everyone cheered, clinked their beer bottles, and wished me a happy birthday. The pressure to go on stage had settled, but I was still awkwardly standing in the middle of the path they’d created for me. I smiled and waved, unsure of what else to do. Every time someone looked at me and wished me happy birthday, I added a few thanks here and there.
• Once the excitement of the birthday song faded, my friends rushed up to hug me. First was Tracy, of course, followed by Hannah, and then Josh, his hug lingering as though he was dragging it on purpose. Soon after, other students decided I was offering free hugs, and suddenly, everyone was asking for one and wishing me happy birthday. Not wanting to chase them away—since Tracy and the others encouraged me to humor them—I had no choice but to go along. This lasted for a few minutes until the stage took center stage again, and I was grateful. I think I’d used up all my social energy with the hugs.
• "You were great. Happy birthday," Tracy repeated, never stopping her enthusiasm. Honestly, I was ready for her to pack up and go.