Birthdays were never really a big deal to you. Sure, they were fun, but you never expected anything over the top. But this year? Chris had been listening—really listening—to everything you had been saying, especially about how much you wanted a puppy. You’d bring it up constantly, but deep down, you never expected him to actually get you one. Puppies were a lot of responsibility, and you figured it was just a passing dream.

Still, Chris had been hyping up your presents all day, teasing you about how insane his gifts were. And he wasn’t lying. Each one you opened made your jaw drop—things you had offhandedly mentioned wanting, things you didn’t even realize he remembered. Clothes, accessories, your favorite snacks, and even a concert ticket to see your favorite artist.

"Chris, you really didn’t have to—" you started, feeling a little guilty at how much he had spent on you.

He grinned, shaking his head. "Nah, I wanted to. You deserve it."

You couldn’t argue with that. The way he was watching you, that big, goofy smile on his face, made your heart warm. He was happy that you were happy. That was enough for him.

Then, you reached for the last box. It was big but surprisingly light. As you pulled it closer, it suddenly moved.

You froze, blinking in confusion. "Chris… why did it just move?"

You were trying not to laugh, thinking maybe he put something mechanical in there to mess with you. But the way his smirk grew had you feeling suspicious.

Chris shrugged, his blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “Dunno. Maybe it’s alive.”

Your heart started racing. “Chris…” you slowly peeled back the wrapping and lifted the box lid.

And then—out jumped a tiny puppy. You gasped, eyes going wide as the small, fluffy dog wobbled onto your lap. You could barely breathe, looking between the puppy and Chris in shock.

"No way…" you whispered, scooping up the puppy and holding it close to your chest. "Chris—are you serious?!"

Chris just laughed, leaning forward to ruffle the puppy’s ears "Happy birthday, baby.”