Somebody was humming by ear again. And the only person I know capable of doing such a thing.
Mother.
Today is my birthday after all, this year she going for the blindfolded surprise party plan. Would have worked if I didn''t feel you touching me last night.
Before I could sit up, a familiar hand touches my shoulder, “No peeking, birthday boy,” my mother whispers with a soft chuckle.
I let out a small sigh but smile anyway, “Alright, alright.”
Last year was a dance performance with dad singing completely embarrassed. I wonder how they will surpass this.
She helps me out of bed, guiding me carefully out of the room well singing a birthday song she mostly prepared in advance.
Let me guess, dad is performed a sitcom as mom sing. Hey I''m down for it-
“Happy birthday to you~”
More voices join in, cheerful and slightly out of sync.
“Happy birthday to you~”
I know those voices. No way...
“Happy birthday, dear Nero~”
When the blindfold was untied, and light flooded my eyes. I saw them all.
Standing in the living room was my father, arms crossed with a rare smile on his face.
Ethan, his usual carefree grin in place.
Violet, wiping flour off her hands.
And Zero, who’s practically bouncing with excitement.
“Happy birthday to you!” They all finish together.
Well, looks like mom did it yet again with this one. What am I kidding, she always loves planning my birthday...the same way my past mom did.
The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
They both always wanted to see me and be treated like a king on my birthday. Only difference is that, I stopped caring for one because I never took the time to appreciate what she does to me.
I smile, “Thanks, everyone.”
Zero shyly plays with his bangs, “You’re seven now! That means you’re officially an old man.”
Oh shy boy has jokes huh, “Look who’s talking, grandpa. Must I remind you that you will be seven in two months time." I said with a cocky smirk.
The room fills with laughter, and then the gifts come out.
---
Henry steps forward first, handing me a box wrapped in simple dark cloth, “This is from me, I had it customly made for this occasion.”
I unwrap it carefully and pull out two gauntlet. The metal is sturdy but light, the craftsmanship perfect.
As I slip them onto my right hand, they fit like a glove.
“I asked an enchantress make it so that it will adjust as you grow up. Given that you constantly fight with kids here, why not use this against bandit instead.” he said with a cheerful smile.
After a short laughed, I started shadow boxing to get a feel of it, “This is… amazing. Thank you.”
Violet and Zenith step up next, handing me a neatly folded set of clothes.
“We figured you’d need something new for training soon,” Violet says with a wink, “Don’t go ruining them too fast.”
Ethan hands me a small, leather-bound book, “A summoning book. Basic-level magic, but with enough practice, you might find yourself a nice little companion.”
I turn the pages carefully, curiosity sparking in my mind. Summoning magic…? That could be useful.
And then, Zero steps up, grinning as he holds out a tiny golden chain. A half-piece of a necklace.
I frown slightly as I take it, “Wait… this is only half.”
Zero lifts his shirt collar, revealing the other half of the matching necklace.
“Now we both have one. That way, even if we’re far apart, we’re still kinda stuck together.” he say with a proud smile.
I stare at the small golden piece in my hand. Of all the gifts, this one… it means the most.
Kinda my first friend to gift me something useful.
I nod and slip it over my neck, “Yeah. We are.”
---
As the others move toward the kitchen to help with the feast, my father nudges my shoulder, “Come outside with me.”
I follow him out, stepping into the cool afternoon air.
For a moment, we stand in silence. Then, Henry sighs, “We leave next week.”
I knew it was coming, but hearing it out loud makes my stomach twist.
“I know it won’t be easy. Change never is. But this is an opportunity.” he said
I grip the chain around my neck, “…Will we see them again?”
My father nods, “Ethan and I are making sure of it. Our paths will cross again. After all, we are strongest knights.”
I exhale, some of the tension leaving my shoulders, “Good.”
Henry glances down at me, “You’re growing up fast, Nero. You’ll have to start making choices about the kind of person you want to be.”
I look at my new gauntlets, then at the golden necklace.
“I already know,” I say.
Henry smirks. “Then let’s go celebrate.”
We head back inside, where laughter, the scent of good food, and the warmth of my families await.