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The Quiet Birthday Surprise

Upper Intermediate (B2)
5 min read

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Jasmine didn’t want a big birthday party. After a year of loud celebrations and crowded places, she longed for something simple and calm.

On her birthday morning, the sun shone gently through the window. Jasmine’s phone buzzed with messages, but she decided to leave it aside. Instead, she prepared a small breakfast and sat outside in her garden.

Her brother, Alex, appeared quietly with a small box wrapped in blue paper. "I thought you might like something different this year," he said softly. Jasmine smiled, feeling touched by his thoughtfulness.

Inside the box was a notebook filled with photos and notes from friends and family. Everyone had written memories and wishes, from funny stories to kind words. It wasn’t a party, but it held a special kind of joy.

They spent the day outside—their conversation gentle and relaxed. Jasmine appreciated how this quiet celebration gave her time to think about the past and look forward without any pressure.

As the sun set, Jasmine understood that not all celebrations need noise or big crowds. Sometimes, the true gift is a moment of calm and the feeling of being quietly remembered.

The day ended without fireworks or singing, but Jasmine felt something warm inside—a calm happiness she hadn’t expected, a birthday exactly as she wanted.

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EnglishUpper Intermediate (B2)