An Unexpected Connection

Bonus 31 - birthday

It was Raihan's birthday, but he didn't feel like celebrating. He had been so busy with work that he didn't have time to plan anything special, and none of his colleagues had remembered his birthday either. Even Alejandro, who he had grown close to over the past few months, hadn't texted him a happy birthday message.

Raihan tried to brush it off and focus on his work, but as the day wore on, he couldn't help but feel hurt and ignored. Maybe Alejandro didn't care about him after all. Maybe he was just using Raihan to get closer to his investigation.

As the evening approached, Raihan gave up on the idea of celebrating and decided to spend the rest of the night alone. He didn't want to be around people who didn't care about him.

Just as Raihan was settling in for a quiet night at home, he heard a knock at the door. When he opened it, he was surprised to see Alejandro standing there, holding a small plushie in his hand.

"Hey, I'm sorry I didn't text you earlier," Alejandro said, holding out the plushie. "I got caught up with work and lost track of time. Happy birthday, Raihan."

Raihan was taken aback by Alejandro's sudden appearance and gesture. He had expected to spend the night alone, but here was Alejandro, showing up with a gift and an apology.

"Thank you," Raihan said, a small smile spreading across his face. "I thought you forgot about me."

"I could never forget about you," Alejandro replied, his eyes warm and sincere. "I know we've been busy lately, but that doesn't mean I don't care about you. You're important to me, Raihan."

Raihan felt a lump form in his throat as he looked at Alejandro. Despite all the chaos and danger that surrounded them, here was someone who cared about him. Someone who was willing to take the time to make him feel special.

"Thank you," Raihan said again, his voice barely above a whisper.

Alejandro grinned, stepping closer to Raihan. "Now, how about we celebrate properly? I know a great restaurant that makes the best tacos in the city. My treat."

Raihan couldn't help but laugh at Alejandro's sudden enthusiasm. It was like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, and he felt lighter than he had in days.

"Okay," Raihan said, nodding. "Let's go get some tacos."

As they walked out of Raihan's apartment, Alejandro's hand found its way to Raihan's, and Raihan knew that no matter what challenges they faced in the future, they would face them together.