Chapter 83 – Seventeenth Birthday Party

Theo didn't wake up to noise or sunlight. He woke up to warmth.

Specifically, to the soft curve of Veronica's waist tucked beneath his arm, her long hair fanned over the pillow, and her breath steady on his chest. Her bare legs tangled lazily with his under the blanket, and even in sleep, she kept one possessive hand on his side like a silent declaration: Mine.

He smiled to himself.

The soft light filtering through the paper window said morning had arrived, and reluctantly, he stretched. Veronica stirred with a quiet hum and blinked up at him.

"Happy birthday," she whispered, then added without moving, "You're not allowed to get up yet."

"Why not?"

"I'm enjoying my favorite pillow."

She nuzzled closer before letting out a reluctant sigh. "But fine. They'll be waiting."