Demon: Book 1

Chapter 48: Happy Birthday

I heard the doorbell ring and tossed my homework binder to the side. Going to the top of the stairs, I saw my mother open the door.

"Hello, Titus."

"Mrs. Perri." He gave her a nod.

"He's upstairs." She left to finish dinner.

Titus stepped inside and closed the door. He looked up at me and opened his arms. "Happy Birthday."

I forced a smile and went to him. "Thanks." I hugged him and waited for my kiss.

He tilted up my chin and gave me one. Pulling back, he examined my face. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing," I laughed. "You're here now, so everything is great."

He didn't look convinced. "Where should I put this?" He lifted up a bag.

"In the living room."

Taking my hand, he led me by the hand and put the package on top of the others. We sat down on the couch, and Titus put his arm around my shoulders.

"How's your family?" I asked.

He shrugged. "Same as always."

"That's good."

We sat in awkward silence. Titus was staring at me, but I kept avoiding his gaze.

"Are you going to tell me?"

"Nothing's wrong," I replied. "I'm good."

Grabbing both of my hands, Titus turned his body so he was facing me. "In four months, we're getting married, and you will be my mate. I want you to be honest with me so I can help you."

I peered across the room. "Just don't attack him."

"It's Chris again, right?" he asked with anger in his voice.

Bowing my head, I nodded. "People at school found out I was engaged." I twisted my ring around my finger. "He was making fun of me, and I said some things back. It set him off." I sighed. "He dumped my books on the ground and kicked a juice bottle in my face."

Titus took a deep breath, squeezing my hands. His jaw was clenched as he turned forward. I couldn't help it. I started laughing.

He gave me a confused look. "How is this funny? You were assaulted."

"Not him, you." I clasped his cheek. "You're trying really hard not to run off and track Chris down." I kissed him. Thank you. It's really sweet that you care so much."

"Well, of course. We are engaged," Titus muttered, "and he hurt you. If Chris were a werewolf, I'd beat his ass."

I started laughing again. "Like any dominant male should."

He mumbled something under his breath and sank into the couch with his arms folded. Titus was so cute when he pouted.

I put my arms around his neck. "Thank you for worrying about me," I whispered in his ear. "But I'll be okay. I promise."

***

"Happy birthday to you," sang my mother as she carried the cake over to the table.

The song continued with Titus muttering along. He was quite animated on the happy birthday sections.

The song ended, and Titus dipped down to kiss my cheek. "Happy birthday, Aden."

"Alright, blow out the candles," said my mom with her camera ready.

I took a deep breath and blew. All but two went out; I quickly extinguished them with a second breath. My father pulled the cake to the other side of the table and started cutting it. My mom handed me my first present. I ripped off the blue wrapping paper and stared at the picture on the side.