[Short story]
"Elaina! Happy birthday!" Arche grinned mischievously as he popped a balloon behind her, making her jump. "So, here's the deal—today, I'll get you whatever you want, all day long!"
"Are you serious...?" Elaina asked, still unsure.
"Yes! Anything!" Arche replied confidently. He had saved up plenty for this.
Without missing a beat, Elaina took full advantage of the offer, completely draining Arche's wallet.
Later, Arche sighed, "Elaina... You made me sleep under a bridge, you know?"
"It's your fault for surprising me!" she retorted, her tone playful but sharp.
"My fault...?" Arche blinked, half in disbelief. Well, maybe she wasn’t wrong.
"Anyway, you’re the same age as me now, right?" he teased. "Just two more weeks until I’m older again."
"I don’t really care," Elaina said, sarcasm dripping from her words.
"You don’t care...?" Arche sighed, clearly disappointed.
"But I’ll repay you on your birthday," Elaina added, a slight smile creeping onto her face.
"Huh? Seriously?! Yes!" Arche couldn’t hide his excitement. He already knew—he’d ask her to spend the whole day with him. A date, and she wouldn’t be able to refuse.