𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 | ✓

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩 𝟐𝟎

It's been days since I've had last had a panic attack, and I'm so relieved. Though, the constant anxiety and fear sit with me all the time.

Lately, I've spent most of my time with Ryder and the rest with Luka, That's whenever he isn't busy. Today being my birthday, I plan on seeing him, as well as my parents. But I haven't mentioned my birthday to Ryder, so I don't expect him to even know.

A good smell floods my nose as I head further into the kitchen, finding Ryder in the kitchen. As he stood in front of the stove, his attention was fully absorbed by the sizzling pan in front of him. His tongue poking out from in between his lips. My eyes are concentrated on his flexed arms as he cautiously cooks the food. "Happy birthday" his voice sudden, bringing me back to reality. He shoots me a quick smile before going back to his cooking.

I look at him with a hint of suspicion and confusion. "How do you know it's my birthday?" I asked, my voice laced with curiosity. He smiles, a mischievous sparkle in his eye. "You're my wife, of course I know it's your birthday." He replies, his tone teasing as he quickly hands me a cup of coffee.

With a shake of my head and a small smile, I settled onto the stool at the counter. The warm smell of coffee wafted up to my nose as I took a sip from the mug.

"What are your plans for today?" he asked with his back to me, "I'll probably go see my parents, and — Luka," I reply. "Nothing fun, I've never found myself that interesting to do any extreme." I add, But I'm honestly just thinking out loud at this point. I never do much for my birthday, It's never been very important to me.

He gave me a subtle nod when he turns around, pushing a plate of breakfast in my direction. "Alright, you have a good day then," he said, his voice warm and friendly. I smile in appreciation, picking up a piece of bacon off the plate and taking a bite. "I'll see you tonight." As he uttered those words, a sudden smile crept up on my face. I nodded in response, watching him make his way towards the front door.

I go back to eating my breakfast, when his voice suddenly comes from the door again. "Happy birthday Vivienne." Before he walks out, pulling the front door closed behind him.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

I spent the majority of my day with Luka, before going to see my parents. I did the usual things, opening presents and blowing out candles, before I finally made it home again.

I'm not surprised to find the apartment quiet and empty, but I am surprised to find piles of presents neatly arranged on the dining table, A tiny note placed in front of them. From the front door, I drop my bag and rush over in excitement. There's no note but I can only assume it's from Ryder.

I stare at the presents, confused but overpowered with excitement. My eyes roams over the pile, not knowing where to start. Each box wrapped in colourful paper and adorned with ribbons and bows. He is unbelievable. Hesitantly, I sit down on the chair before pulling a box closer to me. Carefully, I tug on the big silk bow until it falls loose, before lifting the lid off.