"Hey there, Dex," she chirped as she breezed into the room, her voice like a tune. "Joyeux anniversaire à toi! How do you say that in English?"
"Happy birthday, Aunt Amélie," I replied.
"Happy birthday, dear Dex," she echoed with her charming French accent.
I couldn't help but crack a smile at her lively rendition of the birthday song in French; her energy always lifted my spirits.
"Thanks, Aunt Amélie," I muttered.
She made her way to my bedside, her vibrant red dress swaying with each step. "Ah, you look so grown up today, Dex. Sixteen already! Can you believe it?"
"It's just another day, Aunt Amélie. Nothing special."
She sighed, "I know birthdays aren't your thing, mon cher, but it's important to mark today. It's the day you came into the world. The day everyone laid eyes on you for the first time, and you get to indulge in some delicious cake!"
I couldn't help but chuckle. "Okay, fine," I conceded, offering her a small smile. "But let's keep it low-key. I don't need anything extravagant."
Aunt Amélie nodded, mischief twinkling in her eyes. "Of course, Dex. But promise me you'll at least try to enjoy yourself today. You might even have a bit of fun."
I rolled my eyes playfully, knowing she wouldn't let me off the hook that easily. "Fine, I'll try."
Aunt Amélie gave me a quick hug before exiting the room.
I glanced at my clock. 7:30 AM. Another day to navigate. I sighed, pulling myself off the bed and trudging to the bathroom.
I looked at my reflection in the mirror, a sense of melancholy washing over me. It wasn't just my birthday I wasn't looking forward to; it was everything.
The thought of another day of school, the pressure to fit in, and the constant need to please everyone around me weighed heavily.
I splashed some water on my face and took a deep breath, trying to muster some positivity. After all, it was my birthday, and I didn't want to taint it with negativity.
I dressed and headed downstairs to the kitchen, where Aunt Amélie was already bustling about preparing breakfast.
"Sit down, Dex," she instructed, motioning to the table. "I made your favorite breakfast."
I sat down and poured myself a cup of coffee. "Thanks, Aunt Amélie. Looks great."
She smiled, taking a seat across from me. "So, any plans for today?"
I shrugged. "Not really. Probably just school and then back home."
Aunt Amélie's expression fell a bit. "Oh, Dex, don't you want to do something special on your birthday?"
I shook my head. "It's okay, Aunt Amélie. I'm used to it."
She looked at me with a touch of sadness. "I'm sorry, Dex. I wish I could make it better for you."
I smiled reassuringly. "It's alright, Aunt Amélie. Your presence is enough."
We finished breakfast in silence, lost in our own thoughts. As I prepared to leave for school, Aunt Amélie stopped me.
"Wait, Dex," she said, reaching into her purse. "I almost forgot. I have a little something for you."
She handed me a small, wrapped present. "Merci, Aunt Amélie. Can I open it now?"
She shook her head. "No, not yet. Wait until you're alone, okay? I want you to have a moment to yourself to enjoy it."
I nodded, stashing the present in my backpack. "Okay, I will. Merci, Aunt Amélie."
I gave her a hug, feeling grateful for the small gesture and her presence. "Thanks again, Aunt Amélie. I really appreciate it."
"Anytime, mon cher," she replied, returning the hug. "Have a good day at school, and try to have a little fun today, okay?"
I nodded, smiling. "I'll try." With that, I grabbed my backpack and headed out the door.