Chapter 1

I stared at the untouched meal before me, feeling the coldness in my heart mirror the cooling food.

It was my birthday, but also that of Remy, Xena's long-time friend. I checked Remy's latest Instagram update.

"So thankful to share another birthday with you. Here's to many more celebrations together!"

The image displayed two hands forming a heart in front of a birthday cake. I recognized Xena's hand by the necklace I'd gifted her.

After liking the post, I set my phone down and discarded the special dishes I'd prepared for Xena. I decided to treat myself to a solo birthday dinner at a restaurant, ordering my personal favorites.

I vowed to make my future birthdays meaningful – for myself.

Midway through my meal, Xena phoned. Her tone was slightly worried: "Ezra, have you seen Remy's Instagram?"

"Yes, I have."

"I'll return after celebrating with him. We can spend your next birthday together, alright? Don't be mad!"

Previously, I might have reacted strongly, but not anymore. I simply said, "Fine."

The following day, around 7 AM, my phone rang repeatedly before stopping. I saw it was Xena calling.

She typically avoided using her key, preferring to call me to let her in, ringing thrice before hanging up.

I used to rush to open the door for her, regardless of what I was doing.

This time, I didn't. I ignored my phone and resumed sleeping.

The spare key was beneath the shoe rack near the entrance. She was aware of its location.

I'd been awake until 3 AM packing, and my mind was still foggy. My phone kept ringing, but I paid no attention.

Later, I vaguely heard someone entering and the door slamming against the wall. My bedroom door burst open, followed by Xena's irate voice.

"Ezra, why didn't you answer the door? I called multiple times! You know I despise using keys!"

I gazed at her apathetically. "Too exhausted. Didn't notice."

Xena started to speak, then hesitated. Eventually, she said, "I'm famished. Get up and make me a sandwich. I was up all night and need to rest after eating."

In the past, I would have immediately prepared her breakfast. Now, I just replied flatly, "I'm tired too. Why not buy something downstairs?"

Xena was furious but tried to remain calm. "Are you still upset about me missing your birthday yesterday?"

"No, you're reading too much into it."

Xena didn't buy it. She persisted, "Remy is like family to me. He lost his parents when he was young. If I don't celebrate his birthday, who will? Don't be so petty, or I'll really get upset!"

"You're right. You should celebrate with him. I'm not bothered."

I stood up to use the bathroom.

Xena grabbed my arm and reluctantly produced a red string bracelet from her pocket. "Here, don't be angry. This is your birthday present. See? I didn't forget."

Observing the cheap red string with its dangling metal charm, which seemed hastily chosen, I realized I had misinterpreted Xena's recent frugality as saving for my birthday gift.

I showed her the watch my mother had sent me recently. "Thanks, but I already have a timepiece. It's not practical to wear this. You keep it."

Xena retorted, "You claim you're not mad, but you used to appreciate anything I gave you. Are you becoming fussy now?"

Xena's income wasn't high. Her birthday gifts to me were always inexpensive, costing a few dollars or at most tens of dollars. Sometimes she even forgot to give me anything. But I never complained.

For her birthdays, I always chose thoughtful presents. Just a week ago, for her birthday, I had given her a gold necklace.

I was weary. I lacked the energy to argue further. I took the red string and put it in my pocket. "Thank you."

I changed my clothes and headed for the door. Xena called out worriedly, "Where are you going?"

"To play basketball with friends."

Since starting my relationship with Xena, all my leisure time had been devoted to her. I accompanied her everywhere, cared for her, and had no time for myself.

That would change now. I needed to prioritize my own life.