FOURTEEN YEARS AGO
The room was dimly lit, the soft glow of the television casting a warm presence as the family nestled together on the couch.
Noah, with his head resting on his wife's lap, was engrossed in the late-night movie, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and dialogue from the TV.
Out of the blue, Richmond's voice cut through the atmosphere, breaking the peaceful silence. "Father, I want a big birthday party just like the one you threw for Sheila," he declared with a sudden burst of enthusiasm.
Noah arched an eyebrow, his attention diverted from the movie. "But son, I thought you didn't like such parties," he remarked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
Richmond shifted on the couch, leaning forward to express his desire. "I do. I just don't like people crowding over me and ruffling my hair like a child. Anyway, I am taller than most of them now," he added confidently, a hint of pride in his tone.