Embers of Discord

Chapter Twenty-Two

Ahava-

I wake up to the cheerful melody of chirping birds, their harmonious notes filling the air. The sun casts a warm glow through the curtains, signaling that it's a special day.

August 14th, my birthday. With a contented smile, I sit up in bed, stretching my arms above my head to greet the morning.

In an instant, the door swings open with a burst of energy, and Ruhani bursts into the room accompanied by Lily. Their enthusiastic voices fill the room as they serenade me with a heartfelt rendition of "Happy Birthday."

I can't help but laugh, still rubbing the sleep from my eyes, as they join me on the bed, enveloping me in a bear hug.

Lily's presence is a delightful surprise. I glance at both of them, my heart filled with gratitude.

"Thank you!" I say, my voice tinged with genuine appreciation.

Ruhani places a vibrant purple crown atop my head, a tradition we've cherished since we were six. On each birthday, we create crowns using paper and flowers, it's a  symbol of our enduring friendship and love.

I plant a gentle kiss on Ruhani's cheek. "Thanks, my love."

Turning to Lily, I express my happiness at her arrival. "I'm so glad you made it, Lils. Though, I must remind you that your beloved stalker, Potter, resides next door."

Lily beams at me, her enthusiasm undeterred. "Yes, Ava, I received your letter, but I couldn't care less about Potter. The distance from Birsay made it difficult to visit you before, but now that we're closer, I can come see you whenever I want. And of course, I wouldn't miss your birthday celebration!"

I return her smile, overwhelmed by the genuine warmth and friendship that surrounds me. "Thank you both. I'm incredibly lucky to have the coolest sister and the most amazing friend in the world."

Baba enters my room, followed by Ammi, their hands carefully holding a tray of beautifully decorated cupcakes.

"Happy Birthday, my sweet 16 young girl," Baba says, his voice filled with fatherly affection. They both embrace me, showering me with kisses on the forehead

'Thank you soo much, guys. I love you.'

 As the excitement settles, we gather around the table to enjoy a quick breakfast, eager to start the day's celebrations. Like every year, my parents have planned a little celebration for me, and I can't wait to see what they have in store.

I had my heart set on wearing the beautiful purple dress I purchased two months ago, but Ammi has different plans. She insists on taking me to a shop to find the perfect gown for the occasion. As much as I protest, I know I can't resist her persuasive powers when it comes to fashion choices.

"Alright, Ammi, let's go gown hunting," I concede, a grin spreading across my face. "But I hope you know I'll be on the lookout for that purple dress the entire time."

She chuckles, her eyes twinkling with a mix of amusement and determination. "Oh, my dear, I promise you'll find something equally stunning, if not more so. It's your special day, after all."

And with that, we set off on our shopping adventure.

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So far, I have tried at least six dresses, but none of them really suits me. I liked a blue gown but they don't have a larger size for that one. 

Have I gained more weight?

 Doubt creeps into my mind, but I quickly shake it off, reminding myself that my worth isn't determined by the size of my dress.

'How about you try this one?'- Ammi holds out  a dress for me. It's a beautiful Ombre gown that reaches the floor. My mother  has the best taste when it comes to dresses. Lily and Ru were choosing earrings for the dress.

I move to the trial room . Viola.