The paper plates and cups are laid out on the kitchen table, along with the decorations. I bought Mountain Dew and Pepsi because Dad didn't specify the kind of sodas to buy. It was unclear how he wanted me to buy things. Given that it's my birthday, I should get to decide what I want to eat and drink. The decision should be entirely up to me because it is my special day, whether it be a lavish dinner at a restaurant or a simple celebration at home. Additionally, if my parents neglect me at home, they could be arrested. What I don't want is to stay at home. I should be socializing in the parks, or at the very least getting to know new people. That is why I have my Walkman to listen to radio broadcasts from all over the world. Music is playing in the background, and it fits the mood. Storyteller Radio is the best show I've ever heard. It has enchanting stories that keep me hooked and entertained throughout the show.

The host's voice is also soothing, which contributes to the overall experience. It's almost like being there and conversing with Camper Brown. The host's ability to engage listeners and establish a sense of connection is impressive. Even though I'm not, it feels like you're a participant in the conversation rather than a passive listener.

Around six-thirty p.m., Uncle Atticus and Aunt Paige came to visit that evening to celebrate my birthday. Mom, Dad, and Josh walked in with the dinner they had chosen for my birthday. I can see in their eyes that they really don't care how happy I was on my special day. I tried to hide my disappointment and put on a smile, but deep down, I felt hurt that they hadn't put more thought into making my birthday special.

Josh nudges me as he walks by carelessly. Uncle Atticus carried the rectangular birthday cake. It was rose pink with the princess tiara and the scepter. Be nice if it was a real one, but it's just a thought.

"Patrick." Uncle Atticus said to my dad. "Can you set the cake on the table?"

"Sure." Dad grabs the cake and heads to the kitchen.

"So, I and Aunt Paige here got you something."

Aunt Paige hands me the three boxes of presents. They were wrapped in Mermaid wallpaper with diamond patterns.

"Happy birthday, ladybug." She gives me a hug.

Opening up the first present, I witness a shiny, bright phone. A Samsung Galaxy FE 5G with Android 10 installed. I feel grateful for the thoughtful gift, and I can't wait to explore all the features of my new phone. A screen protector and a royal purple phone case were attached to the phone's back While I continued with the other two gifts, Josh could see his insecurity growing. Mom and Dad put on happy faces and pretended to be happy, even though they didn't care.

It was obvious that Josh wanted to be the center of attention because his jealousy was so overpowering. Mom and Dad were trying to make the best of it, it seems, as evidenced by their efforts to hide their disappointment. I started unwrapping the gifts, surprising myself with joy.

It was a pink duffle bag in neon pink. Finally, there was the larger box. I slowly peeled back the paper to reveal the visible brown box. With shaking hands, I doubted if this was the gift I had been hoping for as my heart raced. While I wait for the big finale, Uncle Atticus assists me in cutting the tape. I peered inside quickly. It is revealed to be an American Girl's Doll. Like me, it had long red hair and blue eyes, I was overjoyed!

"Oh my god, I've always wanted this." I admired the doll I was holding.

"We ordered it online and thought we should get one that looks like you," said Uncle Atticus. giving Aunt Paige a hug.

The American Girl Doll that had been on my Christmas wish list for years had finally arrived. This was the most thoughtful gift I've ever received.

"Well, enough chitchat," Dad says, interrupting my lovely moment. "You ought to put out the candles."

My goal was to one day meet Camper Brown. I was so excited to meet him after hearing so many amazing stories about him that I blew out my candles while still watching the flames. I inhaled deeply and went with my instincts before deciding how to express my wish.

"I would love to meet Camper Brown."

My parents noticed something was off when they heard me say the name. Aunt Paige and Uncle Atticus drew me into their embrace.

"Happy birthday!" My head was patted by Uncle Atticus. His hands were calloused but gentle, and his embrace was warm and comforting.

"Thank you for the gifts," I said. They smiled broadly in response and left through the front door. My parents are staring at me as I look around. Uncertain, I directly asked, "What?"

"Sorry to spoil your good time, but hanging out with Camper Brown is not worthwhile," Dad suggested it.

While I stood there feeling angry and powerless, he picked up the wrapping paper. By telling me that my wish would not come true, he made my life miserable. His words were like a stab in the heart Josh shakes his head and walks upstairs to his room as Mom puts the cake in the refrigerator without looking at me. Tears streaming down my face, I turned away from my mom, feeling betrayed by her silence. I dragged my gifts upstairs to my room, where I pitifully threw them on the bed. I hate how this makes me feel powerless. It wasn't until I overheard my parents addressing me that they left their bedroom.

"Thought this night will never end. talking about worthless birthday wishes." Dad argues silently.

'Honey, she doesn't even know why we should forbid her to know everything." Mom soothes Dad.

Dad hits the dresser with his fist.

"Well, we're not saying a word, not Josh either."

Mom sounded like she didn't want to argue again. "I don't have time for this."

I had a self-centered enough ear on the wall I was leaning against to listen in. My parents really don't want to explain their behavior to me tonight. I couldn't help but feel a bit hurt and confused by their secretive behavior, but I also knew that sometimes adults need their privacy and space. Aunt Paige and Uncle Atticus ignored it without a second thought.

"What are they hiding?"

I was able to reveal some secrets after they left the room and went downstairs.