It was my birthday.
Everyone had wished me at midnight—except Steve. He had no idea.
I woke up early that morning. Soon after, Zinnia came over with a birthday cake and a few gifts.
A beautiful photo frame with our picture, a cute pendant, and an eyeshadow palette.
"Ella, let's go somewhere. It's your day—we can celebrate. You can practice later," Zinnia said.
"No, Zi! As you know, we have only one week left for the competition, and I want Steve to win," I replied.
"So, you two are close now?" she asked.
"Not that much," I said.
I was lying, of course.
Suddenly, it started raining.
"It's my birthday and it's raining… even God knows how much I love the rain," I said, smiling.
"You definitely are God's favorite child," Zinnia replied.
"Okay then, I'm leaving. Once again, happy birthday! I'm going to my grandparents' house, so I won't be able to talk to you for a while. There are a lot of network issues there. But I'll come to cheer for you on the competition day," she said.
"Okay, and thanks again, Zi," I replied.
I took a cab and went straight to Steve's house.
When I reached, something felt off. The whole house was empty—there were no servants around.
"Steve? Where are you, Steve?" I called out.
There was no reply.
I checked the dance room. It was empty too.
"What the hell is happening? Where is Steve? Why didn't he tell me he wouldn't be home? I came here even on my birthday, and now he's not here…" I murmured to myself.
I went up to the terrace while searching for him.
The moment I opened the terrace door, I froze.
He knew.
It was my birthday—and he had prepared a surprise for me.
There was a big, beautiful tent, decorated with care. Inside, there was a bouquet and some delicious food.
"Happy birthday, El," he said softly.
"Thank you," I replied, blushing.
"How do you know it's my birthday?" I asked.
"Yesterday, when I was clicking your pictures, I saw a notification from Zinnia on your phone about your birthday," he replied.
"Come inside the tent—you'll get wet," he said.
I stepped inside. It was beautiful.
He handed me the bouquet. It was huge—almost a thousand roses.
"Thank you so much, Steve," I said.
"Anything for you, dumbo," he replied with a smile.
I blushed.
"Okay, let's go now. We need to practice as well," I said.
"No way. It's your birthday—we're celebrating. I've planned a lot of things, so no dance practice today," he said.
"Steve, I don't like my birthday. You didn't need to do all this," I said quietly.
But he insisted.
And eventually… I agreed.