Emma woke up with sparkling excitement. Today was her seventh birthday! Colorful balloons danced around her room, and the scent of chocolate cake floated from the kitchen. Emma had been dreaming about this party for weeks.
Her friends soon arrived: Mia with her bright red ribbon, Sam with his superhero cape, and even little Oliver clutching his favorite teddy bear. Laughter filled the backyard as they played games, sang songs, and chased bubbles that shimmered like tiny rainbows.
Suddenly, Emma noticed a small, shy girl standing by the fence. She wore a plain dress and watched the fun with wide, longing eyes.
“Why don’t you come join us?” Emma called kindly.
The girl hesitated. “I wasn’t invited. I live next door.”
Emma smiled warmly and opened the gate. “Everyone’s welcome at my party!”
The girl, named Lily, lit up with joy. She joined the games, shared cake, and laughed louder than anyone.
As the sun set and the last balloon floated away, Emma’s mom hugged her. “That was very kind of you, Emma.”
Emma beamed. “A party is more fun when no one feels left out.”
