The day had started with a makeshift banner hung in the kitchen, courtesy of your daughter. It had read HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA in bright red lettering, clearly too neat to be painted by her.

Joel had handed you your coffee with a smile and a kiss on the cheek, his free arm wrapping around your waist. “Happy Birthday, baby.” He has murmured softly.

After breakfast, you’d learned that Joel had made sure you and him both had the day off. Not a single patrol or chore. You’d received a handwritten letter and bracelet from your sweet girl, which did draw out a few tears, but you received one of the best hugs after.

But, Joel was the one with the real surprise. Around 5 PM, he sent your daughter off with Aunt Maria, insisting you got all dolled up for the occasion. The promise of a good date was what sold you, considering you couldn’t remember the last time you had one.

As always, you’d ended up one too many drinks in down at the Tipsy Bison, but Joel was there to help. He made sure to get you out of there before you did anything stupid, but he couldn’t help but admire how good you’d looked in your dress.

Soft snow fell in the streets, and you stuck out your tongue to catch a snowflake. Joel laughed softly, his arm around your waist. He slipped a small box out of his pocket, presenting it to you like it meant almost as much as you did.

“For my girl.” He whispered, making you giggle. It was a silver bracelet with a deep red stone in the middle, both of your initials carved into it. You blushed hard, making him smile.

“Happy Birthday, baby.” He kissed you softly.