Out Of The Woods - A Taylor Swift Adoption Story

Chapter 36: Happy Birthday, Madison!

The evening before Madison's 12th birthday, Taylor noticed her daughter looking a bit pensive. She sensed that something was weighing on her mind. Sitting beside Madison on the couch, with Travis close by, Taylor gently asked, "How are you feeling about turning 12?"

Madison sighed, her eyes downcast. "I don't know. I just... I miss mom. She always made birthdays so special. This is going to be my second birthday without her."

Taylor reached out, taking Madison's hand in hers. "I understand, sweetie. Birthdays can bring up a lot of feelings, especially when we miss someone we love."

Travis moved closer, adding his support. "We might not be able to fill her shoes, but we're here to make your day special in our own way. We want to celebrate the amazing person you are."

Madison looked up, a small smile appearing despite her sadness. "Thank you, both of you. I know mom would have wanted me to be happy."

Taylor squeezed her hand gently. "Your mom is always with you, in your heart. And we're here with you too, every step of the way. Let's celebrate tomorrow together, with lots of love and a little bit of magic."

Travis chimed in with a gentle smile. "And maybe a ridiculous amount of cake. Because what's a birthday without cake, right?"

Madison chuckled, the warmth from Taylor and Travis helping to ease her sadness. "Okay, cake sounds good. Just... can we not do any crazy party? I'm just... not feeling it."

Taylor nodded, glad she convinced Travis to stop planning a big party a few days ago, "no big parties, got it. Any other requests, birthday girl?"

Madison smirked, "Can Travis do one of his touchdown dances? In football gear and all?"

Travis chuckled, "Sure can, girlie. I like how you have the world famous superstar in front of you, but you're asking me, the guy on the Chiefs, to perform."

Madison giggled, "Taylor can take the day off from being THE Taylor Swift."

"Does that mean I can wear sweatpants all day long?" Taylor took a sip of her wine glass.

"Isn't that what you do every day anyway?" Travis nudged Taylor and the two engaged in a playfight, which ended with Travis putting Taylor in a headlock.

"Alright, alright," Taylor rolled her eyes and freed herself.

Madison lovingly looked at the couple that were now her family, "children, please. Let's behave ourselves, shall we?"

Taylor chuckled and scooted over to give her a hug, "Don't grow up too fast, baby."

The morning of Madison's birthday dawned bright and cheerful. Taylor and Travis, filled with excitement and anticipation, made their way to Madison's room, carrying a tray with a small birthday cake and a few beautifully wrapped presents.

As they entered her room, they began to sing Happy Birthday in unison, their voices filling the room. Madison woke up, her eyes widening in surprise at the sight of Taylor and Travis standing by her bed.

"Happy Birthday, Maddie!" they exclaimed together, as Madison sat up, a huge smile spreading across her face.

"Thank you, guys! This is so sweet," Madison said, her heart swelling with happiness.

After blowing out the candles and opening the presents, which included a set of her favorite books, a custom-made necklace, and a new journal, Taylor's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Now, for your big present," she said, her voice brimming with anticipation. "It's waiting for you in the living room."

Madison's curiosity was piqued. "Really? What is it?"

Travis grinned, tapping his nose mysteriously. "You'll have to see for yourself. But we think you're going to love it."

Unable to contain her excitement, Madison jumped out of bed and dashed towards the living room, her heart pounding with anticipation. Taylor and Travis followed, exchanging knowing smiles, pleased with the joy they had brought to Madison's special day.

As Madison reached the living room, her eyes widened.