Rafe Cameron Imagines

Birthday Bliss🤍

The Cameron house sparkled like something out of a dream, its sprawling lawn and dock illuminated by hundreds of twinkling fairy lights. Lanterns lined the walkways and shimmered in the water's reflection, casting a golden glow over the scene. It was hard to believe this party—this extravaganza—was for you.

You stood in front of the mirror in Rafe's room, smoothing the soft blue dress he'd gifted you that morning. It fit perfectly, hugging your figure in a way that made you feel beautiful—something you hadn't felt much in the past year.

Today was your first birthday without your parents. The thought sent a pang through your chest, your throat tightening as memories of last year crept in. They had been so proud of you, so excited to celebrate your 17th. Now, they were gone. The car crash had taken them away in the blink of an eye, leaving you lost in a world that felt colder, emptier.

But this birthday wasn't just hard because of their absence. You'd always struggled with social anxiety. Crowds, attention, and big events like this? They made your stomach twist and your hands tremble. It was easier to stay on the sidelines, blending into the background where no one could judge or overwhelm you. But tonight, Rafe wasn't letting you hide.

You stood there in the mirror, taking slow, deep breaths. The thought of walking out there, of everyone's eyes on you, made your chest tighten. You couldn't do it. Not tonight. You felt so small, so overwhelmed by the crowd waiting for you outside. The idea of standing before everyone and speaking, or even just being noticed, filled you with dread.

You adjusted the straps of your dress, trying to calm your racing heart. "I can't do this," you muttered to yourself, clenching your fists. "I can't."

Just then, Rafe appeared in the doorway, his usual confident stride softened by the way he was watching you. He paused, his expression full of concern as he took in the tension in your posture. "You alright?" he asked gently, his voice filled with worry.

You quickly turned away from the mirror, focusing on your hands. They were shaking. "I don't think I can do this, Rafe," you whispered, barely audible. "It's just... too much."

He frowned slightly but didn't push you. Instead, he stepped closer, moving into the room and coming to stand beside you. His gaze never left you as he placed a hand gently on your back, his touch grounding you. "Hey," he murmured, lifting your chin with his finger so you had no choice but to meet his eyes. "You're going to be okay. I'm right here with you, alright? No one else matters but you and me."

You bit your lip, trying not to let the tears fall. "What if I mess it up? What if I freeze or say something stupid? I won't be able to handle it."

Rafe's hand found yours, his grip reassuring and steady. "You won't mess it up. You've been through worse than this, and you've made it through every time. You're strong, baby. I know it's hard, but you're not alone in this. You've got me."

You closed your eyes, his words wrapping around you like a lifeline. You took a deep breath, trying to steady your racing heart. "I don't know how you do it," you said quietly. "You're so confident... and I'm just... scared."

Rafe's thumb brushed over the back of your hand, the gesture tender and soothing. "That's okay. It's okay to be scared, but you don't have to face this alone. I'm here, every step of the way. And you don't have to do anything you don't want to. But I know you've got it in you to shine tonight, just like you always do."

You closed your eyes for a moment, inhaling deeply. When you opened them again, you saw the warmth and belief in Rafe's eyes. "I'm going to try," you whispered, the uncertainty still there but tempered by his unwavering support.

Rafe smiled softly, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. "That's all I need." His voice was steady, comforting. "Let's go out there, together."

You nodded slowly, taking one more breath to steady yourself. Rafe's presence, the way he held you with such ease, gave you the courage you needed. His hand found yours once more, and with that grounding touch, you followed him downstairs, each step feeling heavier than the last.