Infinity (Coming of age)

CHAPTER TWO

This is actually a flashback of Athena's life with Coraline and Tristian back in the summer of 2018.

In the Summer of 2018

The summer sun filtered softly through the sheer curtains of Athena Carpenter's room, casting playful shadows on her walls. Pink and pastel shades adorned the space, from the fluffy quilt on her bed to the various posters of her favorite superheroes surrounding her. It was a safe haven, a world where her nerdy interests thrived, allowing her to escape the sometimes harsh realities of high school.

On this particular day, though, a thrill buzzed beneath the surface of her quiet existence. It was July 8th, 2018: Athena's sixteen birthday. Her soft hazel eyes fluttered open, a serene smile spreading across her face as she registered the day. "Sweet sixteen," she whispered to herself, the thrill of new beginnings igniting a spark within her.

The soft chime of her iPhone disrupted her thoughts, and the familiar tune echoed her excitement. As she read the contact name on her screen—It's My Birthday!—her heart fluttered with joy. With a giddy laugh, she reached for her glasses, which lay carelessly on her vanity, and slid them onto her face, eager to greet the world.

Before she could even register what was happening, her two mothers, Harriet and Ariel, breezed into the room, their smiles brightening the already delightful morning. Harriet, always the health-conscious fitness instructor, balanced a plate of buttermilk pancakes dusted with a sprinkle of confidence, while Ariel followed, her police officer's demeanor softened by parental love.

"Happy birthday, my Athena!" Harriet sang, setting the plate down with a flourish. "Celebration breakfast, just for you!"

Ariel chimed in, "You're officially one year closer to adulthood, sweetheart. Can you believe how fast time flies?"

Athena beamed, her worries melting away in her mothers' unconditional love. "Thank you both! This looks delicious!" She hugged them tightly; the warmth of their embrace propelled her into the moment's joy.

"Now, what do you want for your birthday?" Harriet asked, eager to make the day special.

Athena's heart raced as she considered the possibilities. Vision danced through her mind—popular girls, trendy outfits, grand outings—but the reality of who she was set in. She bit her lip, her cheeks flushing a soft pink. "I want to go to the mall... and the movies with Tristian and Coraline," she finally admitted, embracing the comfort of her childhood friends.

Ariel raised an eyebrow, her protective instincts surfacing. "Just remember, no scary movies, okay? You know how jumpy you can get."

Athena nodded vigorously. "I promise! Comedy or sci-fi sounds great!"

"Oh, I can't believe I just agreed to this!" Ariel said, chuckling lightly. "You're growing up so fast."

Harriet watched Athena with pride, her resolve etched in a smile. "Before you head out, you need to blow out your birthday candles!"

Athena felt a rush of happiness as her moms guided her to a small, beautifully decorated cake—a vegan vanilla delight since they always prioritized health. Standing before her cake, she took a breath, her mind swirling with birthday wishes. "I wish for the courage to finally be who I want to be," she whispered, her heart racing with anticipation.

With that, she blew out the candles, the faint flickers mirroring her wild dreams. The moment unfolded into laughter and hugs, echoing through her pink sanctuary, wrapping Athena in warmth and hope.

Outside, the world awaited—one full of social challenges and the desire for popularity. But for now, in this moment, Athena felt invincible, ready to start her summer adventure with Tristian and Coraline. She gathered her things, her heart light with new resolutions.