CHAPTER 24

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The first thing Danielle saw when she stepped out of her room was the birthday banner hanging proudly on the wall. Beneath it, small, colorful balloons were scattered across the floor, some lazily rolling away as the morning breeze swept through the open window.

The flick of a lighter caught her attention next, and she turned to find three familiar figures standing before her, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight.

In their hands was a beautifully crafted three-tiered cake, decorated with intricate details that she instantly recognized.

Before she could fully process the scene—


"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"


The three boys chorused, their voices overlapping with laughter as Haechan yanked the confetti popper string at the perfect moment. A burst of color rained down on her, fluttering around the already festive mess.

Danielle let out a surprised gasp before breaking into the biggest smile she could muster, despite the early hour. Without hesitation, she rushed forward, throwing her arms around them in a warm embrace.


"Wait, wait, I can't balance the cake!" Chenle yelped, nearly toppling forward.


They immediately pulled away, dissolving into laughter.


"Make a wish!" Haechan squeaked excitedly, practically bouncing on his heels.


Danielle didn't hesitate.

Clasping her hands together, she closed her eyes and whispered her wishes—silent hopes and desires for the year ahead.


"Now blow!" Renjun cheered.


Danielle cracked an eye open, a mischievous smirk forming on her lips.


"Who?" she teased.


A sharp smack landed on the back of her head.


Renjun rolled his eyes. "I should've agreed to the dick-shaped cake."

Haechan huffed dramatically. "Right? I told you! My idea was magnificent!"


Danielle giggled, playfully rolling her eyes before blowing out the candle. The moment the flames disappeared, she carefully lifted the cake, admiring the adorable Kuromi-themed design.


"Alright, let's take a picture," Renjun muttered, already anticipating the inevitable puppy-eyed look from Danielle.


She grinned triumphantly as he pulled out his phone.

The impromptu photoshoot could've lasted for hours if not for the unfortunate reminder that they still had classes to attend.

Reality was a bitch sometimes.


Too lazy to walk, Haechan took it upon himself to drive them to campus.

Danielle spent the ride happily scrolling through her phone, opening the flood of birthday messages she had received overnight. She replied to each one, her heart warming at the love she was getting from her friends.

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