Dawn filtered timidly through the thick curtains of the guest room in Josep's mansion, tingeing the air with a soft golden warmth. Josephine blinked slowly, her eyelids still heavy with restful sleep. A feeling of peace, unusual in her usual awakenings, enveloped her like a soft blanket. It wasn't the cold, expectant silence of her own room, but a warm silence, full of the promise of a different day. It feels so good to wake up without that oppression in my chest, she thought, stretching lazily under the cotton sheets. The fleeting memory of Louie's kiss before sleep made her smile softly. Last night was... magical.
Suddenly, the door burst open with a soft thud, and a radiant Brianna swept into the room like a whirlwind of energy and color. Her dark, wavy hair seemed to have a life of its own, framing a meticulously made-up face, her clear eyes shining with palpable excitement. She wore a bright yellow knitted sweater that cheerfully contrasted with the softness of the dawn.
"Happy almost birthday, Jo!" Brianna exclaimed with contagious euphoria, throwing herself onto the bed and hugging a still-drowsy Josephine. The sweet scent of her floral perfume filled the air, mingling with the faint smell of coffee that was beginning to drift up from downstairs.
Josephine groaned softly, burying her face in the pillow. Five more minutes, please, she pleaded mentally, although a smile was beginning to bloom on her lips at her friend's overwhelming energy. "Bri... it's still early..." she murmured, her voice thick with sleep, feeling Brianna's warm arms squeeze her affectionately.
"Early for normal people! But today is the eve of your thirteenth birthday! That deserves a celebration from minute one!" Brianna retorted, pulling back slightly to see Josephine's face. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of affection and anticipation. I want this day to be perfect for her, for her to completely forget all the nonsense of her family, Brianna thought, observing her friend's sleepy smile. "It's time to get up, sleepyhead! The day awaits us, full of adventures!"
Brianna had spread out on the quilt a pair of thick tights, perfect for combating the morning chill. Next to them, a pair of black ankle boots awaited being worn. The first option was a long-sleeved black dress, fitted at the torso with a skirt that began to ripple from the waist, mentally calculating that the dark fabric would fall about five fingers above Josephine's knees. Elegant but comfortable, Brianna thought, assessing the garment. The second alternative consisted of black shorts paired with a fitted long-sleeved white shirt. Both options, Brianna visualized, would perfectly complement the boots and tights.
"Which would look best on her..." Brianna murmured thoughtfully, turning to Josephine who was still adjusting her bathrobe belt. I need something that makes her feel safe and pretty, but without attracting too much attention, she mused, mentally weighing the pros and cons of each outfit. The dress offered a more dressed-up air, but the shorts and shirt conveyed a more relaxed and informal vibe, ideal for a day of adventures with friends. What will Jo want to do today? she wondered, trying to guess her friend's mood upon waking.
With her clothes chosen and a feeling of renewed energy, Josephine descended the stairs alongside a chatty Brianna, whose enthusiasm seemed to fill every corner of the cozy Dubois mansion. The delicious aroma of freshly baked bread and crispy bacon wafted from the kitchen, guiding them like a beacon towards a promising breakfast.
In the dining room, the table was set with simple cheer: a checkered tablecloth, colorful ceramic mugs, and an improvised centerpiece of pine branches and small Christmas lights that hadn't been completely removed yet. Louie and Josep were already there, sitting opposite each other, immersed in a lively conversation that broke off as they saw them enter.
Louie's clear eyes lit up as he saw Josephine in the clothes she had chosen. A warm smile spread across his face, conveying a silent approval that made Josephine's heart flutter slightly. She looks so cute and comfortable, Louie thought, standing up to pull out a chair for her.
Josep, for his part, greeted them with his usual cordiality. "Good morning, girls! Just in time for the feast. My mother outdid herself this morning." I hope Josie likes the breakfast Mom made. She always tries so hard, Josep thought, observing his friend with a friendly smile.
Josep's mother, a woman with a kind face and lively eyes, came out of the kitchen with a steaming platter full of golden pancakes. "Happy almost birthday, Josephine, dear! I hope you slept well." Her warmth was genuine, making Josephine feel truly welcome.
"Wonderfully, Mrs. Dubois, thank you," Josephine replied with a sincere smile. "And this smell is incredible." This atmosphere feels so different, she thought, comparing the relaxed and welcoming ambiance with the usual rigidity of her own home.
Breakfast passed with laughter and trivial conversations. Brianna enthusiastically recounted an embarrassing anecdote from her childhood, making everyone burst into laughter. Louie and Josephine exchanged knowing glances, enjoying the closeness and anticipation of the day ahead. Josep made sure everyone had enough food and drink, acting as an attentive and fun host.
While they savored their coffee after breakfast, Brianna suddenly stood up with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Alright, team! The preliminaries are over! It's time for the birthday girl to receive her first pre-birthday gift!" I hope she likes what I prepared! Brianna thought, with a suppressed excitement.
Brianna ran to her backpack and pulled out a package wrapped in shiny gift paper with shooting star motifs. She handed it to Josephine with an expectant smile. "Open it, open it!" Fingers crossed she likes it! Brianna thought, watching her friend's every move.
Josephine took the gift with curiosity, feeling the palpable excitement emanating from Brianna. She carefully peeled off the silver tape and unfolded the paper, revealing a small wooden box carved with intricate floral designs. How pretty, Josephine thought, feeling the smoothness of the wood under her fingers.
Upon opening the box, her eyes lit up. Inside, on a bed of dark blue velvet, rested a silver necklace with a small crescent moon pendant, set with a tiny sparkling stone that seemed to capture the sunlight streaming through the window. It's beautiful, Josephine thought, feeling a pang of emotion in her chest.
"Oh, Brianna, it's gorgeous!" Josephine exclaimed, lifting the necklace to admire its shine. "I love it!" It's so delicate and special... just like her, she thought, looking at her friend with a grateful smile.
Brianna sighed in relief, her face lighting up with a radiant smile. "I knew you'd like it! The moon... it's always reminded me of you. Mysterious and bright." Mission accomplished! Brianna thought, feeling happy that she had chosen the right gift.
Josephine immediately put on the necklace, feeling the cool metal against her skin. The small moon rested delicately on her collarbone, a tangible reminder of her friends' affection and the special day that was just beginning. This is the best pre-birthday ever, she thought, her heart overflowing with happiness.
"It's perfect, Bri," Louie added, stepping closer to see the necklace better. "It looks great on you, Josie." It enhances the delicacy of her neck, Louie thought, feeling a deep affection for the birthday girl.
Josep nodded enthusiastically. "Excellent choice, Bri! Now, who's next with the next pre-birthday gift?" I have something planned that I know she'll love, Josep thought, with a mysterious smile.
Josephine took the small blue package from Louie's hands, feeling the warmth of his fingers briefly intertwine with hers. She carefully untied the rustic twine bow and peeled off the soft paper, revealing a small, light wooden box, much simpler than the elegant case of the camera. What has my boy prepared? she thought, a pang of anticipation and affection filling her heart.
Inside, on a bed of dried moss, rested a small silver locket in the shape of a heart. Its slightly aged surface shone with a soft patina. With trembling fingers, Josephine picked it up and opened it. Inside, she discovered a slightly faded photograph of the four friends, smiling carefree at the camera from four years ago. On the back of the locket, a delicate engraved inscription read: "Always together."
A wave of genuine emotion flooded Josephine. Her eyes filled with bright tears, not of sadness, but of a deep and warm happiness. This gift, so intimate and personal, resonated directly with the depth of her feelings for Louie and the value she placed on their friendship. It was a tangible symbol of their shared history, of the bonds that united them despite the difficulties, and of the promise of a future together.
Without hesitating for an instant, Josephine carefully placed the camera on the table and threw herself into Louie's arms with an effusiveness that took him by surprise. She hugged him tightly, feeling the beat of his heart against hers. "Louie, it's... it's beautiful!" she exclaimed, her voice choked with emotion. "I love it! It means so much to me!" He knows me so well. He knows what truly matters, Josephine thought, clinging to her boyfriend, feeling the authenticity of his love and the solidity of their friendship, much more valuable than any material object.
Louie wrapped his arms around her, feeling an immense relief wash over him as he saw her genuine reaction. Any insecurity he had felt vanished instantly at the sparkle in her eyes. She loved it. I knew something personal would mean more, Louie thought, holding her tenderly, his heart beating in the same rhythm as hers. The happiness on Josephine's face was the best gift he could receive.
Brianna and Josep approached, curious about Josephine's effusive reaction. Upon seeing the small locket and the old photograph, their faces lit up with nostalgic smiles.
"Oh, look at that photo! We were so little!" Brianna exclaimed, pointing a finger at the childhood versions of themselves. "I remember that day, we tried to build a treehouse that collapsed in a minute!"
Josep laughed, recalling the disaster. "And Louie's face when a branch grazed his nose. It was epic!"
Louie and Josephine pulled apart slightly, smiling at the shared memories. Josephine caressed the locket between her fingers, feeling the warmth of the metal against her skin.
"Thank you, Louie," Josephine repeated, her eyes shining. "I'll wear it always."
"You deserve it, Josie," Louie replied, taking her hand and gently kissing her knuckles. "Anything that makes you happy."
The atmosphere in the room filled with a special warmth, an invisible bond that united the four friends through time and shared experiences. The material gifts were appreciated, but it was the genuine affection and the memories that truly filled their hearts.
"Alright," Brianna said, clapping her hands together enthusiastically. "We've had the pre-birthday gifts! How about we go conquer the city? I have a ton of surprises planned for the eve of the big day!"
Josep nodded energetically. "Sounds great to me! Any special requests from the birthday girl?"
Josephine looked at her friends, the locket resting near her heart. The prospect of spending the day exploring the city with them, far from the obligations and falseness of her life at home, was a gift in itself.
"I just want to be with you guys," Josephine replied with a sincere smile. "Whatever you want to do will be perfect."
The ice cream parlor turned out to be a small place full of color and tempting sweet aromas. Rows of metal containers gleamed under the light, each offering a unique artisanal creation: from classics like dark chocolate and Madagascar vanilla to bolder combinations like goat cheese ice cream with caramelized figs and, of course, Josephine's favorite: lavender with honey.
"This place is paradise!" Brianna exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she examined the options. "Anyone brave enough for the wasabi ice cream?" It would be hilarious to see their faces, she thought with a mischievous grin.
Louie took Josephine's hand as they stood in line, watching her thoughtful face as she weighed the different options. "What are you in the mood for, my love?" he whispered in her ear. I hope the lavender one makes her happy, he thought, remembering how much she enjoyed it last time.
Josephine smiled at the affectionate term and pointed to the pale lilac container. "Definitely the lavender. It's my weakness." A little pleasure in the middle of this wonderful day, she thought, feeling a sense of lightness and carefree joy.
Josep, always willing to try new things, decided on a passion fruit ice cream with a touch of chili, while Brianna, true to her adventurous spirit, finally opted for the wasabi, with a nervous giggle.
Once they had their respective ice creams in hand, they found a sunny bench in a small nearby square. The cool afternoon air contrasted pleasantly with the cold sweetness of their desserts. They shared laughter and comments about their choices, with Brianna making funny faces at the spicy taste of the wasabi, much to the others' delight.
As they savored their ice creams, Josephine felt the gentle breeze caress her face and watched her friends. In that moment, sitting on an ordinary bench in an unfamiliar square, she felt a profound sense of belonging. This was her real birthday, celebrated with the people who loved her for who she was, without masks or pretenses. Louie's locket rested warmly against her chest, a constant reminder of that unconditional love. The day still held many surprises, but this simple moment of sharing an ice cream under the sun already felt like a priceless treasure.
The sun began to descend, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink as the four friends continued their exploration of the city. Brianna's next stop was a small amusement park with a nostalgic charm, away from the crowds of the larger, more modern parks.
"Prepare to relive our childhood!" Brianna exclaimed enthusiastically, running towards the entrance. "This place has the best retro roller coasters and a haunted house that still gives me the creeps!" I hope Josie likes the surprise I have planned here, she thought, with a mysterious smile.
Josephine felt a pang of childlike excitement as she saw the twinkling lights and heard the cheerful music of the carousel. It had been so long since she had allowed herself to enjoy something so simple and fun. This is amazing, she thought, feeling the tension of the past few days begin to completely fade away.
Louie took her hand tenderly as they walked through the park, watching her illuminated face. "You look like a little girl again," he said with a loving smile. I love seeing her like this, free and happy, he thought, gently squeezing her hand.
Josep, although a little more skeptical about the more thrilling rides, followed them in good humor, willing to participate in whatever the birthday girl wanted. As long as they don't force me on the tallest roller coaster, everything will be fine, he thought with a slight grimace.
They rode the old Ferris wheel, enjoying the panoramic views of the city gradually lighting up with the night lights. They laughed in the bumper cars, competing to see who could make the sharpest turns. They even ventured into the haunted house, where cheap scares and nervous laughter were the order of the day.
As night was well underway, Brianna led them to a more secluded area of the park, near a small lake where colored lights were reflected in the dark water.
"Now for the final surprise of the day!" Brianna announced with a mischievous glint in her eyes. She pointed towards the center of the lake, where a small boat adorned with twinkling lights awaited them. "A nighttime boat ride to celebrate your eve, Josie!"
Josephine was speechless, her heart pounding. She looked at her friends, whose faces were illuminated by the soft glow of the bulbs. This day, full of thoughtful gestures and special moments, was more than she had ever imagined.
Louie hugged her from behind, gently kissing her cheek. "What do you say, my love? Ready for a romantic ride under the stars?" I hope this little moment is special for her, he thought, feeling the warmth of her body against his.
Josephine turned and looked into his eyes, her heart overflowing with love and gratitude. "More than ready," she whispered, intertwining her fingers with his. The night still held its own secrets and promises to reveal.
The small boat glided smoothly over the dark surface of the lake, propelled by a silent motor. The colored lights adorning the boat were reflected in the still water, creating a magical and dreamlike effect. The four friends settled into the small seats, enjoying the soft silence and the cool night air.
Brianna and Josep whispered to each other, pointing out the city lights in the distance and reminiscing about funny anecdotes from their previous visits to the park. Josephine, however, was absorbed in Louie's presence beside her. He had taken her hand and was gently stroking it with his thumb, his gaze fixed on her with palpable tenderness.
"This day has been... perfect," Josephine whispered, breaking the intimate silence that enveloped them. "Thank you all three. Truly."
The boat slowly reached the center of the lake and stopped. The park lights now looked like a bright halo around the dark shore. The sky, clear and starry, offered an impressive spectacle.
"Happy almost birthday, Josie!" Brianna, Louie, and Josep shouted in unison.
And then, under the glow of the moon and stars that illuminated their faces, Louie leaned in and kissed Josephine. It was a tender and passionate kiss, charged with the emotion of the day, the promise of their love, and the magic of the moment. In that instant, surrounded by the affection of her friends and the love of Louie, Josephine felt that this was the best pre-birthday she could ever have dreamed of. The facade of her everyday life had completely vanished, leaving only the authenticity of her true feelings and the beauty of the bonds she shared with them. The night still held its secrets, but for now, Josephine allowed herself to simply enjoy the pure happiness of this moment.