Alexei's POV
I blink awake, curled up against my mate, Niko. A gentle kiss on my forehead makes me stifle a yawn.
“Good morning, my love! Happy Birthday!” His eyes sparkle as I turn to meet his gaze, and warmth floods my chest. I sit up, still a bit disoriented.
“Good morning, babe!” I lean in for a kiss, and he responds fiercely, making my heart race, just as the door bursts open.
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!”
Arya, Danford, Angie, Darius, Justine, and Jake storm into the room, balloons bouncing around in their hands, a velvet cake in tow. I jump out of bed, excitement sparking in my chest.
“Aww, thank you, guys! You’re the best!”
Arya holds up the cake, inviting me to blow out the candles while they sing a birthday tune.
Danford grins, “We’re going down to celebrate at the
