A Birthday Dinner

Simon and his mother went to a small family restaurant. It was her birthday, and the evening was warm. “Good evening,” the waiter said. “I’d like a table for two, please,” Simon said.

The waiter showed them a table near the window. “What would you like to drink?” he asked. Simon’s mother said she would like some water, and Simon said he would like an orange juice.

The waiter brought the menu. It was short, but everything looked good. “I’d like the fish,” Mum said. “I would like the chicken soup,” Simon said. The waiter wrote it down and went to the kitchen.

Soon the waiter came back with a big plate of rice for Simon. “Excuse me,” Simon said. “I’d like the soup, not the rice.” “Sorry!” the waiter said, and he took the plate away.

The soup came, and then a small cake with a candle. “Happy birthday!” the waiter said. Mum smiled. “Would you like a piece?” she asked Simon. “Yes, I’d like a big one!”