Cal Jackson's new life as a rockstar fails to account for one thing: the existence of the girl he loves.
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"What are you thinking about?" she asks.
"A song," I say. "A new song."
I stare at the ocean as I sing the song that I wrote, something th...
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The weekend has arrived. I've been anticipating it, because today is unlike any other Saturday.
Today is the day that marks the moment Jasmine was born into this world. Yes, it's her birthday, which is why I can't stop smiling when I finish the last touch of the decorations on this very happy birthday chocolate cake I've been preparing for hours. The strawberries sit close to the flower-shaped cream, and in the middle of the cake, it reads 'Happy Birthday, Jasmine'.
I sigh in satisfaction. Even though I'm not a professional baker, I'm quite proud that this cake looks appealing. I hope that Jasmine will love it. Just imagining her happy face warms my heart.
"Wow, is someone having a celebration today?" Mom appears beside me, whistling as she gazes at the cake. I can tell from her expression that she's pleased with it.
Dad suddenly arrives out of nowhere too, raising his eyebrows as he scans the cake. "That looks great, Mia."
I grin, placing the cake into a box.
"Who's Jasmine?" Mom's brows furrow, her voice filled with curiosity. Dad squints too.
"She's one of my classmates, and she just joined us. Keisha and I grew close to her when we did our biology project together," I lie, focusing on closing the box instead of facing my parents, because I'm afraid that they would figure it out. "The three of us will celebrate at Jasmine's house today." I glance at my wristwatch. 7 PM. "Keisha must have arrived there by now."
My guilt builds up even more with every lie coming out of my mouth. I feel horrible, but I'm not looking forward to arguing with Mom and Dad today, especially on Jasmine's birthday. I've told Cal to wait for me in his apartment because I want to surprise her.
I grab my backpack from the stool at the kitchen counter and carry the cake box, then give a peck on each of my parents' cheeks. "Please don't wait for me. I'm going to sleep over there. I'll see you tomorrow?"
My heart is beating fast, but the moment Mom says 'Okay' and Dad settles himself at the dining table, waiting for Mom's coffee, relief washes over me. That's enough to tell that he approves too.
"Love you," I exclaim, rushing toward the door before they can change their mind.
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