"In his arms, I slowly unfolded like a love note read in secret."

- Jill S. Alexander, Paradise.

Birthdays often seem like a reminder of the inevitable passage of time. Yet, they’re also about cherishing every moment and the lessons each day brings.

You wake up with a stretch, still groggy from sleep. As you begin to drift back off, you feel a gentle tug at your blanket.

It’s Bang Chan, the love of your life.

Your eyes land on the calendar and you realize it’s your birthday—your first one with him. He’s determined to make it unforgettable.

Chan wraps his arms around you, pulling you close. "Good morning, baby," he whispers in your ear, "Happy birthday."