He walked for a long time that night. It had been a chilly afternoon descending into a frosty evening, and for the first time in a while Jazz felt something close to happiness. It was a foreign feeling, something he hadn't felt in.. years. Over a decade. He hadn't planned for anyone to celebrate his birthday (indeed, he himself was 2 days late, being born on the 14th), so he bought a small cupcake and a single candle for himself after work. On his way back to the office, he mused over the past events over the last year. Life was.. tough. No question about that. But at least he was no longer afraid, no longer a crying boy in the corner.. no more nights spent shaking in fear under quilted covers, spend sitting in the rain and purple from the cold rain.. he was finally home.

And he had a family.

He sat at his desk and lit the candle, quietly sang the happy birthday to himself before blowing out the candle and taking a bite.

And it was a nice cupcake to be sure.

Happy happy birthday Jazz 

Cheers to a fabulous day and just as fabulous and prosperous year ahead. Slips an envelope in your hand as I hug and kiss you on the cheek.

Badger arrived at the scene 4 days later than the 2 days late that Jazz was.  

He handed a bottle of scotch over to Jazz to go along with the cupcake.  

"Happy birthday, Jazz!! I hope that your birthday was everyhting that you wanted!!! Cheers!!"