Feel Pretty

twenty five (Odell)

I stood there, feeling the heat of Eli's compliment linger on my cheeks. "You look so damn pretty," he had whispered, and I was unable to hide the blush that spread across my face. It was a compliment I wasn't used to hearing, especially not today.

Everly's teasing voice broke the spell. "Look at you two, all shy and adorable. But come on, Odell, your parents are waiting."

Eli reached out and took my hand, his touch gentle yet reassuring. "Come on," he said softly, "let's go downstairs."

As we made our way down the stairs, I tried to calm my racing heart. The house was quiet, and I could feel the weight of the day bearing down on me. My mind was still tangled in thoughts of Diana, and I was trying my best to keep my emotions in check.

When we reached the bottom of the stairs and I stepped into the living room, my eyes widened in surprise. The room was decorated simply but beautifully. Three gold balloons floated lazily, tied to either side of the couch, their shine reflecting in the soft light of the room.

A large "Happy Birthday" banner was stretched across the wall, its letters bold and cheerful. And on the front table, there was a cake—rich chocolate with a simple "Happy Birthday, Odell" written in elegant script. Beside the cake were three neatly wrapped boxes. One was average-sized, while the other two were small, each adorned with colorful ribbons.

My breath caught in my throat. It was modest, but it was perfect. It felt like a warm hug, a comforting gesture in the midst of my sadness.

Eli noticed my reaction and squeezed my hand gently. "I hope you like it," he said, his voice filled with a mix of hope and nervousness.

Everly came up beside us, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I told them you'd love it. And don't worry, it's all just for you."

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. The effort and thoughtfulness behind this simple setup overwhelmed me. I turned to Eli, who was watching me with a tender expression, and then to Everly, whose playful smile was now soft and genuine.

"Thank you," I managed to say, my voice breaking slightly. "It's really beautiful."

Everly's smile widened. "We're just getting started. You deserve a day full of happiness."

Eli squeezed my hand again and gave me a reassuring nod. "Come on, let's celebrate."

As I looked around at the thoughtful decorations, the cake, and the gifts, I felt a glimmer of something I hadn't felt in a long time—hope. Diana might not be here, but I could feel her presence in the love and care that surrounded me.

I took a deep breath and smiled. Maybe today, I could allow myself to be happy, to feel pretty, and to remember the love that Diana had always shown me.