If You Only Knew

Chapter 23

The next month passed in a whirlwind of anticipation and moments that made time feel both slow and fleeting. And now, it was February 1st—my 18th birthday. I woke up to the soft warmth of Louis beside me, his arm wrapped around me, pulling me closer even as we both drifted in and out of sleep. The faint morning light peeked through the blinds, casting a soft glow over the room, adding to the serenity of the moment. My mind was still hazy from sleep when I heard Louis's voice, gentle but full of affection.

"Happy Birthday, Baby."

I mumbled into the pillow, half awake, still tangled in the peaceful haze. "I'm sleeping, ssshhh."

Louis's chuckle filled the space between us, soft and teasing. "Fine, I guess I'll celebrate your birthday without you. Maybe I'll go on a birthday adventure by myself. Who knows? I might meet a cute boy to join me since my boyfriend would rather sleep than spend the day with me."

I frowned, my voice thick with sleepiness. "Would you really find a cute boy?"

Louis's breath tickled my ear as he leaned closer. "Naaah, never. Couldn't find a boy cuter than you even if I tried." He grinned, his lips brushing against my cheek. "But I do need you to get up, my love. We have places to go, you and I."

I smiled, my heart swelling at his words. "Okay, for you, I will wake up."

Louis kissed me on the cheek, whispering, "Good. Happy Birthday, Baby." His kisses continued, playful and light, peppering my face as I giggled, trying to resist his charm.

"Thank you, Boobear. So!" I propped myself up on my elbows, my curiosity piqued. "What are the plans for today?"

Louis smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "That, my young Harold, is a surprise! Now, get up, get showered, and meet me downstairs in 20 minutes!"

I sighed dramatically, playing along, "Yes, sir!"

Louis raised an eyebrow, his voice low and teasing. "Save that 'sir' for later."

"Looouuu..." I flushed, a shiver of excitement running through me at his playful tone.

"Go get ready, Curly. We have somewhere to be in an hour!" Louis's voice was light but firm, making me scramble out of bed, the sound of his laughter following me as I headed toward the shower.

Fifteen minutes later, I descended the stairs, my hair still damp but fresh and alive with the excitement of the day. As I entered the kitchen, the scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Louis stood at the counter, arranging two bagels and some fruit from my favorite bakery, a smile on his face as he caught sight of me.

"Happy Birthday, Curly," he said with a grin, his eyes soft with affection. He handed me a steaming cup of coffee and a plate with my favorite bagel—cream cheese and smoked salmon, a simple but perfect start to the day.

We ate quickly, chatting and laughing about everything and nothing, savoring the quiet comfort of our time together. It felt like the calm before the storm of surprises Louis had planned. When we finished breakfast, Louis grabbed his keys and took my hand, guiding me out the door.

As we settled into the car, I couldn't help but glance at him, trying to guess where we were headed. He was too good at keeping secrets, but I didn't mind. The excitement bubbling up inside me was enough to keep me buzzing for the rest of the day.

When we pulled up to the destination, I blinked, the realization dawning on me. "Louis... the aquarium?"

Louis grinned, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Yeah, and we aren't just going to see the aquatic life. I've arranged for us to swim with the sharks!"