Slow Bubbles at the Garden Party

Slow Bubbles at the Garden Party

Lucia sat in the car with her bubble wand in her lap and Cat curled beside her. Out the window, balloons bobbed on a gate. "Here we are," said Ana. Lucia's tummy felt fluttery, like a bag of moths.

They walked through the gate into the Party Garden. Kids ran everywhere, shrieking and laughing. Lucia did not know a single one. She squeezed Ana's hand tight, and Cat pressed close against her leg.

"You feel shy," Ana said softly. "That's a real feeling. Some people warm up slowly, like toast in a sleepy toaster. That is okay." Lucia nodded. Nobody hurried her. Not one single person.

The Birthday Girl waved from across the grass, then went back to her game. Lucia watched. She saw how the children giggled and chased. Her feet wanted to move a little, but not yet. She needed somewhere to watch from.

Then the kids began a game of tag, with giant running steps and squeals. Lucia held her bubble wand tight against her chest. She looked at the bench by the daisies, and then at Ana's back. Her feet knew it was time to pick a spot.

Where does Lucia watch from?