The Lost Dire Wolf Princess

Happy Birthday

I woke up and almost forgot I wasn't in the foster home anymore. I move back the blanket and I'm hit with the most painful headache again. What is up with my head? Why does it keep hurting? I've got so many questions about who I am and where I come from, and these headaches feel like they are getting worse. This made me wonder if this was hereditary, And not knowing is making it so much harder.

I gathered my belongings and headed towards the shower, hoping the warm water would help alleviate the pain and make it easier for me to carry on with my day. I got dressed and decided to style my hair because it was my birthday. I sat down at my vanity and found everything I needed for my beauty routine: creams, moisturizers, oils, hair products, and makeup. While I was working on my hair, I heard a knock on the door.

"Come in"

"Hello Ma'am, I'm Sara. I came to wake you. It looks like you are all set to go. Mrs. Andrews wanted to let you know that breakfast would be ready in 10 min, and to come down when you are ready."

"Thank you, Sara, I'll be right down."

"You welcome Ma'am." Sarah bows and then walks out the door.

I finished with my hair and put on some light makeup, Then made my way downstairs.

I entered the dining area and I saw Ruth and Capri. I took a seat next to Capri and then a plate was brought in for me. It had pancakes, eggs, bacon, and grits. On the table was every juice you could think of; a basket of pastries and fresh fruit.

"Good morning Maya and Happy Birthday", Ruth says with a bright smile.

"Oh thank you, but it's no big deal". I look at Capri with a side eye, she knows how I feel about my birthdays.

"Yes it is a big deal, I remember my 18th birthday. It was the day I met my Mat... I mean my husband and we have been together ever since." You could see the memories of that day in her eyes.

"So, since it's your birthday, I've played a full day to enjoy yourself and we also have that party as well, and what are the odds that your birthday is the same as Marcellus Coleman's?

"Who is Marcellus," I asked with interest.

Capri turns to me and begins to give me all the tea.

"He is the son of the most powerful man in the whole of New England. His son Marcellus is turning 21 and is taking over the company."

"Oh, I thought his name sounded familiar."

As we talked more about the plans for today, I couldn't help to feel a little excited. I never had anyone do anything for my birthday. I was finishing my breakfast when I heard a man's voice say.

"Good morning ladies". It was Capri's father. He was a handsome man. He looked to be 6'4 with a muscular build. He had a caramel completion, with chiseled features. Women must throw themselves at him. I can see that Capri got the best of both her parents.

"Ah, and this must be Maya. Welcome, I've heard so much about you." then reaches out to shake my hand.

"Thank you, Sir, I appreciate you and Mrs. Ruth's help and hospitality.

"Oh no big deal, your family now, and we help family" as he smiled at me.

Clay makes his way to the head of the table and sits. As the servant placed his plate in front of him,

"So Maya, a little birdie, told me it's your birthday." he looked at Capri. Of course, she was the little birdie. "Well, happy birthday Maya, And since it's your birthday I've set up a spa day for all three of you ladies, which starts in an hour.

"Oh thank you, but I don't want to trouble anyone," I said as I put my head down.

"As I said before, Maya, you are family and it would be my pleasure to do something nice for you on your birthday." He tells me with such sincerity.

"Also, I've talked to a judge who is a friend of mine and he is going to handle your case." Ruth and I were registered foster parents when we started an orphanage 17 years ago. I have already spoken with your case worker. Although you are 18, you will remain under state care until you complete high school. Capri nudged me out of shock as I stood there, mouth slightly agape. "Are you suggesting that I live with you?" I asked incredulously.

"Yes, I would like that very much," I said with a smile.

"It's settled then. Welcome to the family, Maya," he said, smiling at me.

"Maya, if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask us," Ruth offered.

Capri all but knocked me out of my chair, jumping on me to grab me in a hug over the excitement.

After finishing breakfast, Capri excitedly discussed our plans and the places we would visit. By 11 a.m., the limo was already waiting outside. Being here was going to take some time to get used to. I don't know what the future holds, but for now, today I'm going to enjoy this birthday, even if it's just once.