The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the room. I stirred slightly, my mind still lost in sleep, until...
"Happy birthday!!!"
A chorus of excited voices and the unmistakable sound of party poppers startled me awake. I shot up in bed, my heart pounding as Favour and Gift burst into laughter at my startled expression.
"You should have seen your face!" Gift wheezed, clutching her stomach.
I groaned, rubbing my eyes. "You guys scared me to death."
Favour grinned broadly, holding up a small cake with a single lit candle. "Scaring you was just a bonus. Now, make a wish."
I blinked, taking in the sight of my two best friends standing before me, grinning like mischievous elves. In that moment, the familiar comfort of home mingled with the thrill of a new
