Robert and the World's Worst Wristwatch — Barbara Seuling

"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you . . ."

Everyone sang as Robert's mom brought out a birthday cake with ten lighted candles on it, one for each year, plus one for good luck. Robert joined in at the end, almost in tune: "Happy birthday to meeeeeee."

"Make a wish, birthday boy," said his mom.

Robert closed his eyes, made a wish, and blew. When he opened his eyes, the candles were still lit. He tried again, taking a bigger breath this time. The candles were still burning. Charlie was laughing so hard, Robert knew his brother was up to something.

"They're trick candles!" said Robert.

As his mom replaced the trick candles with real ones, Robert made a new birthday wish: He wished his brother would stop treating him like a dumb little kid.