THE DAY I WOKE UP

BIRTHDAY PREPARATION

~5 years later~

For the past five years, things have been pretty much the same, except now Haley is married to Kevin and has moved right next door to me. She shifted here three months ago due to her work.

Victor recently proposed to Lisa, and they're now engaged, with their wedding just a month away. I'm honored to be the main designer for their big day.

Maria, meanwhile, had twins—Fred and George—three years ago. Of course, George was named after me, and no surprise, he's giving Maria a run for her money, just like I did when I was his age!

Tomorrow is Cassy's fifth birthday. Julian and I have planned an extra special day for her. We've given her a pass to skip school, and after a fun shopping spree in the morning, we'll be heading to a spa, followed by a no-cooking meal out. Afterward, it's movie time. When we asked if she wanted a party, she declined and instead requested a sleepover with Fred, George (the twins), and her aunts. And in a surprising turn, she told us, strictly, that Julian and I aren't invited! Looks like our little angel is growing up fast.

My memory's still coming back, and while I remember most things, the part about Victor before my amnesia is still a bit hazy. But honestly, I've decided not to dwell on it, especially since my life feels so perfect now.

As for me and Julian, we've grown even closer. I love him more and more every day. He truly seems like the perfect husband, and he's kept his promise to love me and never hurt me again.

But today is especially special! Haley just told me—she's PREGNANT!!! My dirty-minded, adorable bestie is going to be a mom! I wasn't this excited when Maria got pregnant, but OMG, Haley being pregnant? I can hardly believe it! I was practically jumping for joy when I heard the news, while everyone else, including Kevin, was just in shock. They all gave me this weird look, and I said, "Guys, she's pregnant! Seriously, no one is happy??" Then we all burst out laughing, even Victor, who normally has this serious, stoic expression and never really vibes with any of us—let alone Julian.

Haley is already 3 months along, and I can't wait to meet my future niece or nephew! I'm hoping for a niece, but either way, I'm beyond excited.

Right now, Julian and I are at the gift shop, shopping for Cassy's birthday present since she's at school. I suggested getting her a book series she's been dying to have—she's just like me, obsessed with books—but Julian's stuck on getting her a video game. We've been going back and forth over it, and here's how it went:

Julian: "Come on, babe, all her friends have it!"

Me: "Honey, she's been dropping hints for this book series for a month now."

Julian: "But babe, this is cool..."

Me: "No is a no, Julian! This is completely useless!!"

Eventually, he gave in, but on the way home, we passed a store selling inflatable pools. Julian thought it would be perfect for Cassy, Fred, George, and our future niece/nephew to play in, so we grabbed one.