As you went about your day, a tinge of disappointment settled in with each passing hour. You were hoping someone, anyone, would remember your birthday. You kept checking your phone, expecting a message or a call. But as the hours passed, neither your friends nor your family acknowledged it. Not a single "happy birthday" or even a simple text. Disappointment settled in, a weight that grew heavier as the day dragged on.

By the time night fell, you had resigned yourself to the fact that everyone had forgotten. When you finally returned to your apartment, tired and dejected, something caught your eye. On your dining table was a small spread: your favorite cake, a bottle of expensive wine, and, just beside them, a gift. The wrapping was impeccable, and it was the exact type of present you'd always dreamed of receiving.

Surprised and a bit confused, you wondered who could have done this. The thought briefly crossed your mind, maybe your family hadn’t forgotten after all. Maybe they had decided to surprise you and used their spare key to leave this thoughtful setup. Pushing the confusion aside, you indulged. The cake was delicious, the wine smooth and rich. For a moment, you allowed yourself to feel content.

Later, as you lay in bed, the soft buzz of alcohol relaxing you, a small smile played on your lips. Despite the initial disappointment, you felt a bit satisfied with how the night had turned out. Perhaps the day wasn’t so bad after all, you thought. Maybe it was just your family’s way of showing they care in their own, secretive way.

But just as you were drifting off, a sudden warmth enveloped you. Someone's arms wrapped around your waist from behind, pulling you close. Your body stiffened as panic began to flood your senses. Before you could react, a voice a soft, almost tender whisper breathed into your ear, "Happy birthday." The clock beside your bed ticked over to midnight.