when i turned 18

My 18th Birthday {Chapter 13}

Hello, again, reader. Today marks the infamous day I've talked about since the beginning - my birthday. After this chapter, it only really goes downhill for me from here. My birthday marks the beginning of a new era, an introduction to a whole new level of change.

Let's catch you up with what's happened. I recently moved in with Cassidy and aunt, preparing for the baby. She's a month and 3 weeks pregnant, still in her first trimester. It's scary thinking about becoming a dad, but I'm prepared. Things have been good between us, so far. We've been together for a month and 12 days marking today.

I suppose I should also catch you up on me and Leia. We're still friends—good friends, even. She's been supportive of me and Cassidy, offering advice and pointers, which I've definitely needed. I've also become closer with Malachi again, so I guess I'm not that much of a loser anymore

As the birthday candles flicker, they mirror the anticipation of the impending chaos.
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Saturday, September 14th, 2024

I woke up next to Cassidy's warm embrace, which had become our cherished morning ritual. She naturally became cuddly and affectionate towards me, enveloping me in her arms, something I adored as it made my mornings infinitely better, infusing them with a sense of warmth and love.

As I stretched, groaned, and reached for my phone to check for messages, to my pleasant surprise, several people had actually messaged me. My mom, sister, Leia, Malachi, and even Percy, although I couldn't recall giving her my number.

Nevertheless, the influx of messages left me feeling unexpectedly appreciated. It was a departure from my usual routine; typically, I only had 1-2 friends, so the extra attention felt novel and heartening.

Deciding to call my mom back to check in, after just two quick rings, she answered with palpable excitement, "Happy birthday, mi hijo!" (my son).

I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "Thank you, mom. How have you and Camilla been?"

"We've been good. We miss you very much. How is Cassidy and the baby?" Her voice was filled with genuine curiosity and concern.

"They're both doing great! We have an ultrasound appointment on Monday to determine the gender. I'm nervous, mom," I admitted, the apprehension evident in my tone.

"I'm excited to know the gender! And, Chico, you are going to be a great dad, just like your papà. He would be proud of you, even if it's early for a child. You have nothing to worry for," she reassured me, her words imbued with a sense of maternal comfort and confidence.

"Thank you. I miss him a lot, you know. I can't believe it's almost been 6 months," I'd say, overwhelmed by the weight of the passing time.

My mom's voice, filled with emotion yet maintaining a calm demeanor, replied, "I know. Camila's still torn up, and so am I. But, let's not dwell, okay, Chico? Today's your special day after all! Do you have any plans?"

I replied, accepting her suggestion to shift the focus. "I agree. And yeah, I'm gonna throw a party at Cassidy's house. Camila and you are welcome to visit, and if not, we can go out for lunch tomorrow."

Her smile, though unseen, was palpable through the phone. "I'd like that, Chico. Camila can go, but parties aren't my scene."

Wrapping up the phone call, we decided Camila would come to the party but stay away from drinking, and I'd have lunch with them the next day. I then called up my group chat, with Percy, Leia, and Malachi to invite them to the party.