“Guess what?" Kokichi asked cheerfully, dragging out the vowels in each word. "It’s my birthday!” He exclaimed to his classmates, seated around a table in the cafeteria. Their eyes bore holes through him as they mulled over his words in silence. Oh that's right.

“Nice try Kokichi,” They responded bluntly, returning to their previous conversation. Who would believe a liar? They were used to his antics, his "schemes". Kokichi silently stared back at them for a moment, face almost blank in contemplation, before he grinned.

“Nishishi~ You’re right, I lied.” He stuck his tongue out before quickly turning away. Why try to convince people who aren't even listening? It's easier to keep playing the role I chose than to change. He told himself.

The cafeteria, usually so full of life, was dead silent in the middle of the night. Every student was either asleep or occupied in their dorms. Kokichi, however, had plans.

"Happy birthday to..." Kokichi looked around the empty table, the only light coming from the single candle on his lone cupcake. "...me." He continued with a sigh. Part of him had already expected this outcome.

"Happy birthday to me. Happy birthday, happy birthday... Happy birthday to—"