Mackenzie and Miles O'Connor Love Wins In The End

Chapter 9 Mackenzie's 11th birthday

Three years later.
Mackenzie was now eleven years old, and her baby brother Miles was seven months old.

That morning, Mackenzie woke up early, excitement buzzing in her chest. She carefully got dressed in a teal dress and black flats, then padded into Miles' nursery. Her little brother was awake and cooing, tiny fists reaching for her.

"Good morning, buddy," she whispered with a smile. She changed his pajamas into a soft onesie, then carried him to the kitchen. After warming a bottle, she fed him patiently, humming a tune. When he was done, she settled him on her lap and opened one of his favorite Monster Machine books.

and then Blaze zoomed across the finish line!" she read, showing Miles the bright pictures. The baby squealed happily, kicking his chubby legs.

Just then, Mia stirred awake.

Mia's POV:
I blinked at the sunlight streaming through the curtains and stretched. A smile instantly formed on my lips. Kenzie's birthday. My little girl was eleven already-I could hardly believe it.

After washing up, I stepped into the hallway and froze for a moment at the sight before me. There was Kenzie, sitting cross-legged on the couch with Miles balanced carefully against her, reading in her soft, patient voice. My heart swelled.

"Happy birthday, Kenzie!" I said warmly as I walked over, brushing her hair back from her face.

She looked up, eyes sparkling. "Thanks, Mom."

"Come here." I pulled out a comb and styled her hair into a neat braid, weaving the strands gently. "Perfect. Birthday braid for my beautiful girl."

Kenzie grinned. "I love it."

Just then, Brian walked in, still yawning but smiling wide. He leaned down to hug Kenzie. "Happy birthday, kiddo."

"Thanks, Dad."

He gave me a quick kiss before scooping up Miles. "And good morning to you too, big guy."

Kenzie headed off to school soon after, her backpack bouncing on her shoulders, and I couldn't help but think how quickly time was flying.

Later that afternoon...

When Kenzie walked back through the front door, she froze in surprise. Streamers were strung across the living room, balloons tied to chairs, and a big Happy Birthday banner hung across the wall. A cake sat on the table, covered in sprinkles and candles.

"Surprise!" we shouted.

Kenzie's mouth dropped open, her hands flying to her cheeks. "Oh my gosh!"

Before she could say more, the front door opened and in walked her Uncle Dom, holding a couple of wrapped gifts under his arm.

"Happy birthday, kiddo!" Dom said in his usual booming voice.

"Uncle Dom!" Kenzie ran over and hugged him tight.

He chuckled, handing her the presents. "Got you a little something."

Kenzie tore into the wrapping, her eyes lighting up when she saw a pair of sparkly earrings and two new shirts in her favorite colors. "Thank you, Uncle Dom! These are amazing."

"You're welcome," Dom said with a grin. "You'll grow into the earrings, but I figured they'd make you feel a little more grown-up."

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter, cake, music, and family gathered around to celebrate. Kenzie was glowing with happiness, and even Miles clapped along in his high chair, babbling joyfully.

As the candles flickered on the cake, Kenzie closed her eyes tight before making a wish and blowing them out.

That night, as I tucked her into bed, she whispered, "This was the best birthday ever."

I kissed her forehead softly. "You deserve it, sweetheart. Happy birthday, Mackenzie."