Chapter 5: Her Birthday

The Whitmore mansion was calm in the late evening. The grand halls echoed only with the faint ticking of clocks, as all its young residents were worn out from the day's activities.

Mia and Julian were already fast asleep in their respective rooms, exhausted from the shopping and excitement of planning a surprise for Senorita's birthday. Their steady breaths filled the quiet house, giving it a peaceful rhythm.

Meanwhile, Sebastian Whitmore sat at his study desk, the soft glow of the lamp illuminating his focused face. Books were spread across the desk, and his pen moved swiftly over pages as he revised notes for his upcoming exams. Admission to London University was his goal, and he was determined to secure the highest grades possible.

Just then, Yonika Whitmore returned from her NGO work. She quietly walked through the mansion, smiling as she checked on her children. Seeing Mia and Julian asleep, she softly chuckled at how her little ones were completely worn out.

Her footsteps led her to Sebastian's room. Peeking inside, she saw him still immersed in his studies, the intensity on his face softening as their eyes met. Yonika's lips curved into a warm smile.

"Sebas, you should take rest also. It's not good for your health," she said softly.

Sebastian sighed and nodded. "Yes, Mom. I am planning to sleep soon… I have a headache."

Yonika entered the room and bent down to plant a gentle kiss on his forehead. She ruffled his hair lovingly and said Tomorrow is Senorita's birthday party, so you all be ready by sharp 7 PM, okay?"

Sebastian, ever responsible, quietly shook his head. "I'll skip the party, Mom. Exams are near, and I need to focus."

Yonika gave him a warm, understanding smile. "I understand, Sebas. You've been working so hard. Just make sure to rest too." and Sebastian, feeling the affection, rested his head on her lap. The stress of exams and the world outside melted away in that moment of maternal love. Slowly, he closed his eyes and drifted into a deep, peaceful slumber.

…......

The Harrison mansion buzzed with excitement that morning. Staff rushed through the halls, arranging flowers, polishing silver, and preparing a lavish spread—today was Bella's birthday.

But inside her room, the princess slept peacefully, cocooned in satin sheets, untouched by the chaos outside. Two hours later, Susan entered quietly with a tray of warm pancakes, fresh fruit, and juice.

"Good morning, my princess," she whispered, placing the tray on the table.

Bella stirred, ate a few bites sleepily, then curled back under her blanket. With a soft smile, Susan tucked her in again, letting her daughter drift into another gentle slumber while preparations for the grand day continued outside.

By evening, the Harrison mansion glittered with life. Every corner was decorated with shimmering lights, colorful balloons, and flowers that filled the air with a soft fragrance. The staff moved swiftly, making sure every last detail was perfect.

Susan entered Bella's room with a soft smile. She gently shook her daughter awake and said, "Princess, get up—we're going to a party tonight." She handed Bella a breathtaking gown, shimmering like something out of a fairy tale. Excited, Bella began to get ready, unaware of what awaited her.

Downstairs, Richard and Susan stood hand in hand, their hearts beating with impatience. The air buzzed with anticipation as the clock ticked closer.

At last, Bella opened her door and stepped into the hallway—only to find herself surrounded by complete darkness. Her heart skipped a beat.

"Mom? Dad?" she called nervously, but silence answered her.

Just as fear touched her eyes, the lights burst on all at once.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PRINCESS!" echoed through the grand hall.

Richard, Susan, and a room full of guests stood smiling, their hands clapping in celebration. Bella froze in shock before joy took over. With a squeal, she ran into her parents' arms, hugging them tightly.

Only then did she look around and realize—her world had been transformed. The staircase was lined with glowing candles, glittering streamers floated from the ceilings, and tables overflowed with beautifully wrapped gifts. It looked like a palace from her dreams.

Hand in hand with her parents, Bella descended the staircase like a true princess. Everyone's eyes followed her with admiration.

Suddenly, Mia and Julian darted through the crowd, throwing their arms around her.

Julian grinned wide, his tone playful: "Wow, Senorita, you look too perfect to be real. Are you even human—or just a doll?"

Bella laughed, pinched his arm, and replied, "Now you know I'm real."

Julian groaned in mock pain while Mia doubled over laughing. The guests couldn't help but smile at their adorable bond.

Bella then moved toward Yonika Whitmore, who embraced her warmly and kissed her cheek. "Happy birthday, my sweet girl," she whispered.

Before Bella could reply, Richard stepped forward, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Princess, close your eyes. There's one more surprise."

Without hesitation, Bella squeezed her eyes shut, her face glowing with excitement. The guests chuckled at her innocent eagerness.

Then, three figures appeared in front of her—two boys and one girl—holding large bouquets made entirely of chocolates, their faces hidden behind them.

As Bella stood with her eyes tightly shut, heart fluttering with curiosity, three figures stepped forward. They held large chocolate bouquets in their hands, their faces hidden behind them.

And then—

Trio in unison: "Happy Birthday, Baby Doll!"

Bella's eyes flew open in a jerk. For a heartbeat, she couldn't believe what she was seeing. Abby, Jake, and Navya stood right in front of her after a whole year. Shock turned instantly into overwhelming joy. Tears brimmed in her eyes as she let out a cry and rushed toward them.

She hugged the trio with all her strength, sobbing against them. Abby and Jake's eyes glistened with tears, while Navya too cried softly, her face glowing with happiness.

It was a reunion filled with love, relief, and a thousand unspoken emotions.

Susan stood nearby, her eyes welling with emotion, while Richard's face shone with pride and joy. Watching his children together like this made his heart swell—it was a moment he would never forget.

The four of them clung together, forming a tight embrace, then suddenly broke into laughter. Their voices rose in perfect unison, shouting: "We are back! We are back!" Their contagious joy filled the hall, and everyone present admired the scene with warm smiles.

Richard and Susan couldn't resist. They stepped forward, wrapping their arms around the group, making it a giant family hug.

And then, Abby and Jake started singing, their voices rich with love:

"Every year there is only one day that shines the brightest,

Hearts send you a hundred blessings,

Happy birthday, happy birthday,

Happy birthday to you…"

The hall erupted in claps and cheers as Bella's laughter mixed with happy tears. Soon, music took over, and the celebration transformed into pure chaos of joy.

Bella, Mia, Julian, Abby, Jake, and Navya danced like there was no tomorrow—spinning, laughing, and enjoying themselves like carefree children. Games were played, jokes were shared, and the hall vibrated with youthful energy.

Meanwhile, the elders retreated to one corner, engaging in warm conversations and catching up on old times, their smiles never leaving their faces.

Later that evening, as the party began to slow down, Mia announced she would stay with Bella for the night. Nyonika happily agreed, glad to see her daughter strengthening such a sweet bond. Susan too was delighted, as her best friend's daughter was as dear to her as her own.

Finally, Richard instructed the servants to carefully carry all of Bella's gifts to her room.

The night ended with laughter echoing through the mansion, but the glow on Bella's face made it clear—this was a birthday she would never, ever forget.

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