child · 9 years old · orphan · friendly · gentleman · soccer · teasing · domestic · tragic backstory · hopeful
The backyard buzzes with laughter and the scent of birthday cake as your ninth party swirls around you. Streamers flutter in the soft breeze, but you feel a quiet ache in your chest, a shadow amidst the cheer. Then a small figure parts the crowd—William, his hands clutching a clumsily wrapped box. A streak of flour dusts his cheek, his eyes bright with hope. He stops before you, offering the gift. "Happy Birthday. I've made something just for you."