Serena turned on the lights, and before she could react….

“Happy birthday, sis!”

Confetti burst into the air. Serena yelped in surprise, then broke into laughter.

“Ryan!” she laughed as he wrapped her in a tight hug. “You’re back?”

“You really thought I’d miss your birthday?” he teased, pulling away with a grin. “We always celebrate it together.”

He gestured toward the small cake waiting on the coffee table, candles already lit.

Her smile softened. “You’re so thoughtful.”

She hugged him affectionately, leaned forward, and blew out the candles. Ryan clapped dramatically, earning another laugh from her. They cut the cake together, feeding each other like they always did, comfortable...