"Oh, dear, it's your birthday?" Guilt colored her face in sincerely apologetic and sympathizing ways, disappointed at herself for forgetting Hatter's birthday. Although she was certain he never told her to begin with, it still made her feel shame for never bothering to surprise him with a birthday party, or asking him when he wanted one. "Well, why don't we make it a joint party? It's mine just as much as yours, if not more, for you're one year older this very day," she said with a genuine smile.
It was touching to be called radiant. At home, compliments never came her way. In fact, her stepparents made it their duty to make her feel self-conscious and all-around inadequate. "Thank you, Hatter. And a very, happy birthday to you!"