"Just a small party and nothing more," Ria murmured softly, looking at her mother. "I don't want to make a big scene. Right now, the last thing I need is to draw attention to myself."

Mrs. Roseline nodded in agreement, pulling her daughter into another warm embrace.

The following afternoon, Ria was at the shopping mall picking up a few packages for her upcoming nineteenth birthday. She was busy checking her items at the counter when a young boy tapped her gently on the shoulder, handing her a stunning bouquet of red roses.

Ria blinked in surprise, staring down at the flowers before looking at the boy. He was a...