We walk out five minutes later with a protein power bottle that I don’t even need. Because of Dad, I’ve stopped fighting at the underground. But turns out he already knew about it. It’s strange how he never brought it up on phone calls. Not that I’d have sttopped if he’d ask me to.
These days, I only go to the gym. It’s my only outlet for frustration.
And sexual energy.
Having Rose so close to me all the time has given me permanent blue balls. It’s a miracle that I’m functioning properly and not dying from pain.
Sebastian likes to tease me about it.
Asshole.
The sky gets dark and it’s only five. Streetlights lit up and people start walking towards their home.
My phone pings with a message. It’s from Blondie.
Blondie:All set.
I let out a sigh of relief and drive us home as fast as I can.
When we get home I take Rose to my room. She looks relaxed now which is exactly how I want her to be. I don’t want anything to ruin her day.
“Go on,” I gesture her to open the door.
She gives me a questioning look but pushes it open.
“Happy birthday!” Marie and Sebastian shout, wearing party hats and holding confetti cannons.
My room is minimally decorated with white and blue balloons and a few other simple touches.
Marie sets aside the confetti cannon and lifts the chocolate cake from the table. Sebastian lights the candles, and together, they bring it over with wide grins.
I close the door behind us and lock it.
Rose laughs as she sees the cake.
“Blow the candles and make a wish,” I say to Rose as I wrap my arm around her waist to hold her steady.
Rose glances at me, then closes her eyes and blows out the candles.
The Sebastian and I clap the loudest. He hands her the knife, and she carefully cuts the cake.
“Thank you,” she whispers, her eyes shinning with tears.
“You’re welcome,” Marie says looking like she’s ready to cry.
Later, the four of us sit on the floor around the coffee table, enjoying the cake. I have a small piece, mostly because of Rose, who’s busy devouring a huge slice I can’t even imagine finishing.
“Okay present time,” Marie announces and reaches behind her to grab a bag. “I’m first.”
“Why?” I ask her.
“Because I said so first. If you wanted to be first, you should’ve spoken up.”
I roll my eyes.
Rose takes the with a soft expression on her face. “You didn’t have to, Marie. This party was enough.”
“I wanted to. Besides, I’ve had this for so long. I especially made this for you.”
