“Happy birthday, Katie,” I said softly, squeezing her hand.
Her eyes met mine, her pupils dilating.I wish I could wish her on my knees with my mouth between her thighs, but this would do for now.
“Open the dashboard,” I added, a playful grin tugging at my lips.
Her fingers trembled slightly as she did, revealing a bouquet of bright yellow sunflowers.The scent of fresh flowers filled the car and she inhaled them deeply.Her eyes glimmered, and for the first time that day, her smile was genuine.
“Thank you,” she said, her voice full of warmth, making my heart pound in my chest.
I squeezed her hand in mine, my body giddy with excitement.
“I probably don’t know anything about your work… but,” I stammered, keeping my eyes fixed on the road as I cleared my throat before continuing, “I bought you a gift certificate for metal supplies and also a wheel kit.”
I didn’t hear her reply and when I glanced at her, her lips were parted and her hazel eyes were shining.“Dylan you didn’t have to...thank you for your gifts,” she whispered, squeezing my hand and making my heart stutter.
I smiled, knowing she would use her presents well.
When we arrived at her place, she surprised me by asking me to stay put when I was about to get out and open her door.
“Don’t move,” she said, plucking a single sunflower from the bouquet and tucking it behind my ear.Her fingers gently brushed my skin.“You look good like this.”
I felt my cheeks flush, heat rushing to my face.
Katie smiled and leaned in, her lips inviting.
“Wait,” I stopped her from kissing me for the first time.And also the last.“I… I need to show you something.”
She looked confused.Of course, she would.I have never stopped her from kissing me.
I stepped out of the car, opening the passenger door.“There’s more in store,” I said.
We walked toward the front door, and just before she unlocked it, I whispered, my breath hot against her ear, “It’s going to be loud.”
Her hand trembled slightly on the doorknob as she pushed the door open.
The scene inside was perfect since I had helped adorn her place with my sister and her friends.Floral decorations on every surface, pastel-colored balloons bobbing gently in the air.The soft hum of cheerful voices and laughter surrounded her.
Her eyes widened.
“Happy Birthday!”They all cheered.Her family, friends, and loved ones, with Amanda standing at the center with a proud smile.
We had planned a small surprise party for her since we knew she’d never celebrate her day so loudly.Amanda had seemed suspicious when I asked her to bring Katie home, but thankfully, among the chaos of a birthday party, I knew she wouldn’t care.
Katie stood there stunned with the bouquet of sunflowers clutched to her chest, a beaming smile spreading across her face, her eyes glassy.
My heart threatened to burst out of my chest at the sight of her beautiful face.
I hope I can make her smile like that on every one of her birthdays.
32
KID NEXT DOOR
KATIE
It was a wonderful surprise, and I almost cried with joy.Almost.
My house had never looked so beautiful.The scent of sunflowers and lilies floated through the air, mixing with the faint sweetness of vanilla from the cake I spotted on the dining table.Laughter bubbled around me, the familiar voices of people I loved filling every corner of my big living room.
