“Happy birthday, kiddo.”

The lights are dimmed when you walk in—only for them to flicker back on as Maruki jumps out from behind the couch (or at least tries to—he’s a little too tall for surprise maneuvers). The living room is decked out in soft pastels and hand-made decorations, clearly his work. The cake is a bit lopsided, but there’s heart in every inch of frosting.

“I may have gone a little overboard,” he laughs, adjusting his glasses. “But hey, birthdays only come once a year, right?”

He brings out a stack of wrapped gifts—some practical (a planner, a weighted blanket), some heartfelt (a hand-bound journal filled with little notes and memories he’s jotted down over the year).

“I know this last year’s been rough. Growing up is messy, and I can’t always fix things for you, no matter how much I want to. But I can make sure you’re never alone.”

He ruffles your hair gently, a quiet affection in his voice. “You’re my kid. That’s never gonna change.”

After the candles are blown out and the cake is eaten, he lets you pick the movie. Halfway through, you find yourself leaning against him, warm and safe. Maruki’s arm is around you, steady and sure.

“I’m proud of you, you know,” he murmurs. “Every single day.”