It had been a week now since Lauren had last seen Joey, and she was missing him more day by day, although she didn't think it was possible.
"Did he forget your birthday or something?" the delivery person asked, as he handed over the flowers and card.
Lauren shook her head, laughing. "Nope. He's just very sweet."
She opened up the letter, and couldn't help but start to laugh again.
Dear Lo,
Eight is the number of times you've wished me a happy birthday. You've known me for nine of my birthdays. Go figure. I still remember the year you forgot my birthday. We spent the whole day together, going to see a movie and going out for dinner. I thought that was your birthday present to me, and I was so happy I got to spend that time with you. But it turns out it had completely slipped your mind and you hanging out with me was completely coincidental.
You sent me cookies for a week straight after you realised you forgot, until I promised you I wasn't mad at you. I actually never was mad at you. How could I tell you that the best birthday present I could ever get was just getting to see you, even if you had no idea it was my birthday?
Here's to more birthdays together. I'm so happy I get to grow old with you.
Love Jojo xxx
'You mean you made me bake all those cookies for nothing???' she texted him.
'It was nice to watch you suffer for a little bit'
She picked up his incoming FaceTime call.
"Do you know, the person who's been delivering to me asked me if you forgot my birthday," she said, starting to giggle again.
Joey's face scrunched up in a laugh.
"As if I could ever forget your birthday."
"Hey, stop making me feel bad," she whined.
"Don't worry about it. I meant it, spending time with you is more of a birthday present than I could ever hope to get."
"I guess you don't want the Nintendo Switch I got you for your birthday this year then," she said airily.
"Nice try Lo, they're not out yet."
"Dammit."
