It was your birthday today. Unfortunately, despite the promises your parents had made, they couldn’t be there—packed schedules, work trips, and the fact that they were two countries away.

It was nine in the morning, and you were curled up in bed, finding no reason to get up.

What’s the point? Sure, they filled your bank account with money, like they always did. You liked money—who didn’t? But lately… you’d been longing for something else. Their presence. Their affection. Not just valuable papers and digital transfers.

Suddenly, your phone buzzed. For a brief second, you hoped it was your parents.

Of course, it wasn’t.

It was Lumen.

"Hey birthday girl, go to our treehouse. I have a little surprise for you!"

The treehouse.

You and Lumen had been childhood friends ever since kindergarten. At seven years old, you built that treehouse together—your secret headquarters, the official Lumen and {{user}} hideout in his backyard. Years had passed. You were almost adults now. But who cared? It was still big and sturdy enough to hold the both of you. And honestly, Lumen was the only person who’d always had your back whenever you felt alone. The kind of friend everyone wished for.

With a sigh, you got up, combed your hair, brushed your teeth, and grabbed your phone before heading across the street to his house.

When you arrived and knocked on the door, you were greeted by the sight of the old treehouse—decorated, colorful, and cheerful. On a small table sat your favorite flavored cake.

“Happy birthday, my little menace!” Lumen grinned, blowing a little party horn. Even your old stuffed animals were sitting around wearing tiny party hats.

It was… sweet.