“Are you mad at me?” I asked Emmy as we walked back to our homes. We haven't spoken a word out –which was so unlike us– since we left school after my argument with Harry and I've began to wonder if she's mad at me.

Emmy turned her head to me, “What, no! Not at all! I'm sorry if I made you feel like it.” she apologized and sighed, lowering her gaze to her shoes as she walked. “It's just, I'm having a hard time believing what happened. First, seeing you there with Adam, being forced into a kiss;” she paused and shuddered.

“Oh please don't say his name, I'll vomit.” I said, wiping my lips with the back of my hand where Adam had brushed his lips with before Harry and Emmy came to my rescue.

“Sorry,” Emmy mumbled before continuing, “And second, seeing you and Harry arguing so seriously than ever, which he took indeed seriously and leaving like that...” she trailed off sighing.

“I'm so sorry, Em.” I said, inhaling deeply with a burden in my heart. “I know it's completely my fault because I started it first. But you're fine, you know?”

“Excuse me?”

“He'll still be okay with you because you weren't taking any of our sides.” I said.

“But you're surely going to apologise to him, right?” Emmy asked.

“Of course, only if he'll attend my call.” I sighed.

“He will girl, he likes you very much more than me.” Emmy said.

“Don't be ridiculous.” I glanced at her and saw her smirking. “He likes you more than me.”

“Come on, I don't always stand with his decisions like you do.” she said and I rolled my eyes. “Even if he don't accept your call today, there's always a tomorrow. You can make it up this at school.”

I shrugged, “I hope.”

We were so close to Emmy's house and when we reached there she hugged me a goodbye and walked into her home, where her little sister was waiting. I waved at her and went on my way, another ten minutes of walk.

I took out my headphones from my backpack and put on my ears and listened to music as I continued my walk to my home. When I reached home, mom was watering the plants outside and our golden retriever Nicky was with her, bouncing over the landscape. When he heard the sound of the gate open and saw it's me, he ran up to me barking, nearly knocking me off to the ground when he jumped over me.

I laughed, rubbing his neck and belly as he then was rolling on the tiled floor. Mom came up, scolding him for getting dirty and he scowled at her when she said he must have a bath before getting inside.

Mom hugged me and asked how was my day. Horrible. I wanted to say but held my tongue back. I can't imagine how she'll react if she hear that her daughter was forced into a kiss by one of her classmates. So I told her everything was fine, except for math riddle, at which she chuckled. Mom then send me in, telling me to fresh up and that my favorite Chicken Lasagna is waiting for me in the oven.

I went to my room and got freshen up before calling Harry. I waited hopefully for him to pick up my call, holding my breath and grasping onto my six-cornered star pendant around my neck.

But he didn't answer.

I called again.

This time, he dismissed; from what I understood he's purposely avoiding me because he's never dismissed any of my calls in my mind's history.

I then decided to text him now on WhatsApp; if he's not gonna let me talk to him, I'm gonna write to him. Thus I wrote down my apologies, begging for his pardon and send it. I saw him online and he viewed my message. Within a blink of an eye, I received a message from him.

Not interested.

Harry please....

Save your breath.

No.

Then leave.

What?!

I said, leave me.

You can't be that silly!

And you should've thought twice before you talked.

I understand. I told you I'm sorry.

And I told you I'm not interested in that.

Harry, I'll do anything! Just, please....

Leave me alone.

And I did; just for today, hoping to solve everything tomorrow. But, that tomorrow was even worse.

I didn't see him waiting for me and Emmy in the school corridors or by the gate when we both walked into school the next day. I didn't care less because I knew I can't expect him to wait for me like usual since we aren't in good conditions. Even though, I was a tad sad.

“If you get a chance, you'll surely talk to him for me, right?” I asked Emmy, reminding her about her promise from last night.

Emmy wasn't glancing back at me, but looking ahead. I saw as her eyes widening a bit and then becoming normal. “Only if I won't have any difficulties to get to him; look.” she said shaking her head and pointed her chin ahead of us.

I followed her gaze and my eyes widened at the sight before me. Harry and Orlana. Talking. Together. Alone!

Anger boiled in my veins; Orlana saw us arguing yesterday and might've seen Harry leaving without listening to me. She's trying to take advantage of the chance to get back to her sidekicking. She looked so happy, like she's having a triumph. Oh how I want to wipe that smile out of her face now!

“How dare she?” I hissed, taking a step forward but Emmy stopped me, “No, this won't make things better. Harry's still mad at you.”

“But he won't go against me.” I said.

“If I know Harry Canfield any better, I say, he's just trying to annoy you by talking with her.” Emmy said, “Let's get out of their sight, we'll talk with him when she's not with him.”

It was as if Orlana actually heard what Emmy said, because we, neither of us, got a tad chance to talk with Harry alone; Orlana was hooked up to his side and this, like this, continued for days that dragged by and it started driving me mad and frustrated.

Harry kept on ignoring me and my calls and messages; Orlana wore a smug smirk on her face whenever she saw me; Adam who came back to school after his two days of absence after the incident, kept on giving me shady looks every now and then, irritating me; and I was gasping for air in between.

Harry had been in good terms with Emmy and I've even seen them talking right before my very eyes, which made me feel left out. Emmy had indeed fulfilled her promise of talking to Harry for me but she said, he dismissed her from mentioning me.

My heart shuttered into pieces and I began to hate myself for my stupidity that has lost me my best friend. I missed him. I missed Harry so much. I loved him so much that it now hurts. I missed his voice, I miss his smiles, I miss his laughter, I miss his smirks, his valuable jokes and sarcasms.... and making me remind that it's my fault I miss him, I wanted to slam my head on wall.

My birthday was only few days ahead and as always, my family has decided to celebrate mine and mom's together because hers was only few days later. Last year we weren't able to celebrate our birthday because my cousin brother was in hospital and we postponed it to this year. I loved my birthday, it was a day to remind of what God did for me in my life; the day God gave me a new life, the day I met my brother in the woods of Colorado.

But this time however, I couldn't feel the spirit. And I didn't want a birthday party without Harry there. But how can I tell my brother I don't want to celebrate my birthday?

I thought for a long but no idea popped into my head. I had no possible way to make an excuse. I cried to the Lord, Why is this happening to me? Why? Why am I a disaster? Help me, tell me what to do. I want my best friend back.

I laid on my bed and sobbed with my face burried in my pillows. What to do? What to do? What to do?

“The truth will set you free.”

I sat up on my bed all of a sudden as if I had a whip lash and looked around me, searching for the owner of the voice that spoke to me.

Nobody was there. How can be there anyone, anyway? I realized it was the voice of God in my head; a strong male voice but gentle at the same time, along with the roar of clashing sea waves on the background.

I let out a loud gasp of shock. Every hair in my body stood up and I crawled down to the floor and sat before the Lord on my knees. I didn't know what to say, my inside was shaking, with fear and excitement.

Fear; because I know I haven't been a good child lately and, excitement; because, I've just heard the voice of my savior for the first time in my whole life!

My eyes fell on my Bible which sat on my nightstand and I reached for it. When I opened, to my surprise, my eyes struck on John 8:31-32.

31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

The truth.

Then it clicked me; maybe God is telling me to tell my brother what's going on. Maybe I can have a bit of help, even though I might have to risk a bit of his wrath on Adam's matter.

I took a deep breath, fixed my mind and thanked God. Even though I knew I don't deserve it, God was listening to my cries all day and now He has answered, by actually speaking to me. I sat there like that before Him for a long while I didn't notice passing, before getting on my feet, to go to my brother and tell him everything.

After having dinner downstairs with family, I sticked to my brother's side all the way up back to our rooms. And I think, he noticed something is not right with me and asked, “Everything alright, honey?”

I sighed, this is my chance. “No.” I mumbled. “There's something I need to tell you.”

My brother didn't say a word but nodded and led me to his room. We sat on his bed and I, taking a deep breath and praying to God silently in my heart, starting pouring out everything to my brother, everything that happened since the day I got Adam's number from my locker to how it ended with my loss of Harry.

In between of my explanations, my brother did stayed silent but when it came to unbelievable parts, he gasped, expressions changed and kept on saying, “What?!” “Oh my goodness!” “You're joking.” “Wait what?!” and all. And I felt exactly the same as how I once, few months ago, sat before my brother like this and told the incident I had with Nott.

He was boiling in rage, I was sure of it, but was thankful that he knew how to mask it perfectly calm. Once I was finished, ending up in tears, my brother rubbing his fingers over his forehead. “I can't believe it, Hailey. What has gotten into you lately? This is the third time you're getting yourself into trouble this year!” he said.

“Third time?” I inquired, knowing what exactly my brother is counting for three; but I couldn't let him to do so. “Nott and Adam were a trouble, yes; but Rilden wasn't.” I said fiercely.

My brother snorted, “Yeah I forgot, Rilden was a mistake.” he said in a rather mocking tone, seriously.

“He wasn't a mistake!” I defended, unconsciously raising my voice, “Rilden was my choice.”

“Oh, come off it, Hailey.”

“No Hax, I love him.” I said sternly, completely surprised at the tone of my voice, all of a sudden.

Haxsel rolled his eyes at me, “If I know any better, my little sister has gone a bit crazy. Love is a strong word, Hailey, you can't use it for Rilden; you don't even know him.”

“I don't care!”

“Stop this nonsenses at once, Hayline, you're going too far. I don't want to hear about him from you again, did you hear me?” for the first time in my life, I was scolded by my brother and I couldn't stand it.

“Fine!” I cried, standing up. “Here I thought you're someone who'll understand me, but I was wrong.” I said, shaking with the sob that was forming in my throat and ran to the door. My brother didn't stopped me as a part of me hoped, and so, I left.

*****

I sat on my bed, listening to Hillsong's music. Half an hour passed since I left my brother's room after a nearly bad argument. I wanted to cry for it, but I had no strength. I had been crying for two weeks over my friend and no, I can't cry any longer. It was making me feel too naive and telling me I'm weak, so I thought, listening songs will help me to get some peace.

I was listening to Hillsong's In Control, when, out of the corner of my eye, I saw the door of my room open a bit. I turned my head to the door and saw my brother, leaning against the wall. At his sight, I straightened up myself, took off my headphones and wiped my tearstained face on the sleeve of my pajama top. Hearing music indeed had me held deep in emotions.

I glanced at my brother, who stood by the door itself and hadn't moved at all; so I patted on my bed, gesturing him to come and sit.

“I knocked, but I think you didn't hear me?” he said, as he came to sit next to me, emotionless in face.

“Yeah, I was listening to music. Sorry.” I said, –my voice was a bit hoarse from crying– avoiding his gaze, looking down at my swinging legs.

Suddenly I found my hand being clasped in my brother's hands. I looked up, surprised by his unexpected action and met his blue eyes staring down at me, concerned. “I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, I wasn't being a good brother a bit ago. I shouldn't have spoken–”

“Don't apologize, it's my fault.” I cut him off, gulping down the lump in my throat, “I should have spoken a bit patiently. This exactly is what that happened with me when I had the argument with Harry, I should've been a bit easy on him too.”

“I'm sorry about what happened between you and Harry.” Haxsel sighed and stroked my hair, “And by the way, what's the name of that boy again? The boy from school.”

“Adam. Why'd you ask?”

“Oh. I can't let him get away with it like that now, can I?” Haxsel asked.

“But it's fine, you know? Harry actually took care of it, on your behalf.” I said.

“My behalf?” my brother inquired. “I don't want anyone to do anything for my sister on my behalf.” there was something like a brotherly ego flashing in his blue eyes as he spoke firmly. “And next time if something is wrong –I pray this won't happen again but– I want you to come to me right away. No more hiding, if you don't want things to go this bad again.”

I bit my inside cheek, “Yeah. I'm sorry.”

Haxsel sighed and opened his arms, “Come here, I hate hearing so many apologies from you. It reminds me of,” he paused for a moment when I snuggled into his embrace. “Of you, the old you. Remember, you used to apologize for every single thing when you were little.”

I smiled even though what I was going to say isn't pleasant. “Because we were all forced to do so in the mafia. But you don't need to remember about it though, years have passed.” I said.

“Yeah, it's going to be eight years since God gave us you. I can't believe it.” My brother chuckled softly.

Since he wasn't speaking of Adam's matter anymore, I thought to continue this one and distract him from it as possible. “Jonny, I have a request.” I said, looking up at my brother.

“Anything for you princess.”

I smiled at the nickname but not at his anything promise because I knew, he's not going to do this one for me. “I don't want to celebrate my birthday.”

“Excuse me?” Haxsel asked, pulling me away to look in my face.

His shocked expression however seemed funny to me, that I had to control my smile. “I. Don't. Want. To. Celebrate–”

“I must've heard you wrong.”

“No you didn't, I was saying,–”

“Why don't you want to celebrate your birthday?”

“Because Harry won't be there and I can't stand it.” I said, lowering my gaze to hide my tears.

“Don't be silly, I'll talk with him.–”

“He won't listen.” I cut him off.

“Then I'll ask Max to talk with him.”

I rolled my eyes, “He didn't even listen to Emmy.” I said.

“So what? Max is his brother.”

I snorted, “You know what? Harry don't listen to his brothers.” Hey come on, I know my best friend!

“It's worth a try anyway; nothing to lose.” Haxsel shrugged. “And I'm sorry, we can't cancel the party just because Harry won't be there–”

“But I don't want–”

“I'm sorry, love. This is your birthday, the day God changed our life; not a friendship day. So you'll be fine.” My brother dismissed me dumbfounded, pulling me into his embrace.

I wanted to cry, but that seemed useless. Honestly Hailey, when did you think crying is useful anyway?

We sat like that for some moments, lost in thoughts of our own world until my brother cleared his throat, “Hailey,”

I hummed in response.

“I'm sorry about how I was talking to you earlier.” Haxsel said, apologizing about our earlier argument again. Really?

“Oh shut up.” I said, hugging him tight.

“Not that,” my brother said and I looked up at him from his chest, “I meant Rilden.”

“It's fine,” I said lowering my head as I felt my cheeks burning. “I think, I'll leave it to God.”

“That's exactly what I was going to say. I'm sure there's someone out there for you,” I blinked twice at my brother's words, “I hope you'll find out soon even though I don't want you to; I just want you to stay out of Rilden.”

I nodded dumbly at his words, I wanted to ask why he don't want me to think about Rilden but I think, I already know the answer; he's Naomi's now.

I sighed, “I will try not to think about him. I just can't accept your words yet but, I hope it'll sink in one day.” I said.

“That's my girl.” my brother kissed the top of my head. “Now, I don't want you to worry about anything in your sleep. About Harry, I'll ask Max to talk with him as I will do myself too, I promise.”

“Thanks bro.” I hugged my brother once again, “I can't tell you how much that means to me.”

“As I said, anything for you, princess.” I laughed at his fake British accent. A warmth spread in my heart, a spark of hope for my best friend and that night, I slept well than the past days.

The next day, by the last period in school, everything was usual except one thing; I saw Harry looking at me. Or maybe it's just our eyes that catched accidentally but, he didn't look away as he used doing for past days since our argument.

Maybe Hax or Max had spoken to him for me?

I shrugged away the thought and walked out of the class, slinging my backpack over my shoulder. When I looked back at Harry before exiting, he had turned away already. I sighed and walked out, followed my Emmy right behind me. She was so concerned for me and was indeed struggling in between me and Harry –than we were to each other,– more than she would admit.

When we reached the grounds, I spotted Max walking to us from the corridor of headmaster's office. I stopped and waved at him, he was indeed coming to us.

“Isn't that–”

“Maxell, yes.” I cut off Emmy, undertoned, before he reached us.

“Evening, girls!” Max greeted us when he reached up to us.”

“Evening.” we greeted back, “What are you doing here?” I asked him.

“Oh.” he said, looking ahead somewhere. And from that look on his face I understood, whatever he's going to say next won't make sense to me or, isn't going to be a truth. “Had a chocolate delivery here to a lad.”

I rolled my eyes. See, just like I said.

“To the principal?” Emmy asked him, a bit baffled.

“No, one of the pupils.” he said, and turned his eyes on me, “What's it that they say?”

I gave him an extremely confused look, “What's it that... who says?” I asked him.

Max almost chuckled, “About what the overprotective brothers do to the lads who mess up with their sisters.” he said, casually.

I raised an eyebrow at him, not getting the point.

Beside me, Emmy gasped a tad, looking up at Max, “Wait, you mean... Adam?”

“What?” I asked my friend.

“Genius!” Max laughed, “I didn't expect anyone to solve my riddle.” he said, impressed.

“Wait, you mean, this lad you're talking about? What did you do to Adam?” I asked, completely not getting the point.

“Oh I told you I was just delivering him a box of chocolates.” Max said sarcastically.

“Maxell...” I whined.

He chuckled raising his hands in surrender, “Okay, okay. Hax told me what happened; he's so furious about that boy so I told him, I'll take care of it for him.” he said casually.

“What did you do?”

“Threat.”

We both gasped.

“Oh don't be so dramatic.” Max waved a dismissing hand in the air. “I didn't break his nose like my dear baby brother did, I was, as I said, just delivering a box of chocolates. Talking.” he said.

I shook my head in disbelief but I couldn't deny the fact that I was touched for his caring. Because, if he hadn't cared for me, he wouldn't have done this. “Thank you so much, Maxy.” I said, beaming up at him.

“My pleasure, now come on, I'll drive you back home.” he said, taking his car's key from his pocket.

“It's fine, Max. Thanks but we'll–”

“Come on, girl.” he groaned actingly, putting his arm around my shoulder and dragging me with him. “You too, genius.” he turned to Emmy and gestured her to come along.

I looked back at my friend and laughed when I saw her blush a tad as she followed. Before I tore my gaze to ahead of me, I saw Harry by one of the corridors, watching us. “What about Harry?” I asked Max, not turning my eyes away from him.

“He'll drive home with his bodyguard.” he answered without even caring to look around for his brother. I glanced at Harry until I was out at the gate. He didn't turn away from me as he was doing in the recent days, which gave a spark of hope in me.

Two day later, it was my birthday and since it was a Thursday and there would be class, I convinced mom and dad in advance to let me stay home. I loved going to school on my birthday and giving sweets to my friends and teachers but this time, without Harry, I couldn't do it. Our home was prepared for the birthday party and my family was in a really good mood, except me. I told Mom in advance that Harry and I had an argument and that don't expect him to be here. I didn't tell her the real details but only the fight with Adam, sparing the part that included me in it. Mom was sad for me and comforted me saying, he wouldn't dare missing my birthday.

Sometimes I had hope and the other times, I feel hopeless. I thought of messaging Harry and hesitated five times before I actually made up my mind. I didn't write about my apologies in it because I knew it would annoy him, and only told him that we are hosting a party in my home for my mom and I's birthday and I want him to be there.

Minutes later when I checked into WhatsApp, I noticed that he has seen my message. Again, a spark of hope was lit inside me. And that day, on my birthday eve, I slept hopefully than ever.

I opened my eyes to a peaceful rhythm of piano, playing so closely. I turned aside, sunlight was pouring in through my closed windows and balcony. Hey, but I had the curtains drew over them last night before I went to bed.

I rubbed my eyes and sat up, whispering a good morning to Holy Spirit. The rhythm of piano stopped and my head snapped towards where my piano was. I was unconscious that I didn't even notice how on earth am I listening to a piano at the dawn. Only then did I notice my beloved brother sitting on a stool in front of my piano, with a smile on his handsome face, gracing me.

I blinked my eyes twice to confirm my sight and my brother laughed. “You're not dreaming.” he teased, standing up and walking up to me.

I was soon scooped up into his arms, to the air, as my brother lifted me up unexpectedly. A loud giggle escaped my lips and I clinged onto him.

“Happy birthday little girl.” Haxsel kissed me on cheeks.

“Thank you, big boy.” I laughed as he poked his fingers to my side. “Don't you think I'm big now? I'm officially fourteen.” I said.

“I think, I'm going to call you little as long as I live.” he said sarcastically, placing me back on my bed. “I have something for you.” he said and walked to the piano.

I glanced at my brother curiously as he picked up a black square shaped thin bag from the floor, beside the piano stand.

I gasped in realization at the sight of the black bag. “Is that–”

Haxsel cut me off, “Go on and open it first.” he smiled, placing it on my bed.

I quickly reached for he bag and unzipped it, revealing a shining black laptop. I gasped again before taking it out and examined it. The laptop was big, thin and weightless.

“Like it?”

“Are you kidding? I love it!” I said, keeping the laptop safely beside me and stood up on my knees to hug my brother. “Aww Jonny, thank you so much! I've always wanted one! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” I exclaimed happily.

“I'm glad,” my brother said and pulled himself back from the hug. “There's something more.” he said. I raised my eyebrows and he shrugged, “But not from me.” he said before walking to the piano stand and bended down.

“Did you really had to keep them down there, Jonny? Why didn't bother to keep them on my couch?” I asked, seeing him bend down.

“You think I'm an old chap, huh?” he asked, walking back to me with a big carton box in his arms.

I opened my mouth to reply him but shut it as soon as my eyes caught the carton box. “Is that from Bonnie?” I asked excited, partly hopeful that it might be surely from our cousin because she's the one who sends me couriers.

“Who else would send such heavy gifts on courier?” my brother asked, placing it on the carpet down. I slid out of my bed and sat on the carpet, watching patiently as my brother tore through the box. “Arrived two days ago and I had to keep it under my bed and shut Nicky out because he saw me carrying it to my room.” he shook his head at our golden retriever.

“Really? Two days ago? Where was I then?” I inquired. Surely I would've seen if a parcel package had arrived.

“Actually, Bonnie send it to my worksite address. She didn't want you to find out the surprise before your birthday, so I thought, this way, it would work.” my brother said, finally managing to open the box.

I dig into the box without waisting a moment. There was indeed a box of my favorite chocolates –of course, Bonnie wouldn't be Bonnie if she doesn't send me chocolates–, a zebra-leather jacket –at which's sight I gasped loud–, a full set of makeup items –at which I squealed and my brother groaned–, three big novel books and at last, a birthday card with a birthday message from her that melted my heart into water.

“One more thing.” I turned to my brother's voice, shifting my eyes from the makeup set. “There's someone who has booked their place to get a chance to wish you after I'm done; on FaceTime.”

“Really? Who is that?” I asked.

My brother took out his phone, “You'll see.” he smiled.

“Hey!” I called, “Don't call now! I'm in my bedhead!” I said and ran to my mirror and began to brush my hair. “Oh Jonny, I look ridiculous like this!”

“Don't be silly, you're beautiful.”

I rolled my eyes, “You'll say that even if I have dark circles around my eyes and my face covered in mud.” I said.

“This person however don't mind how you look. You'll only have to survive a bit of teasing if there's anything to risk.”

I dropped my hairbrush and turned to my brother. “Is that... Harry?” I asked, just above a whisper. My heart began to raise in excitement but then–

“I'm sorry, no.” my brother frowned, looking at me. “But come on, you wouldn't want to miss this.” he said.

I walked to him and sat by his side as I heard the bell ringing in his phone. He was covering the screen from me and only turned it to my face when the ringing stopped. The call was answered and there came a girl with blonde hair and brown hints, beaming widely.

“Rekenzel!” I covered my mouth with both hands at the unexpected sight of my best friend. It feels like ages since we last had a FaceTime. We both had been busy with our school studies but did find time to chat.

“Surprised?” Rex asked with a laugh in her voice. “Happy birthday, girl!”

I took the phone from my brother's hand, “Goodness gracious me! Thank you so much, girl! What a surprise!” I exclaimed.

She chuckled, “Thanks to your brother who was willing to team up with me for this.” she said and waved at my brother who just threw himself in front of the camera. “Thanks Hax!”

“Where are you now?” I asked as I noticed that she's walking all the way talking to me with earphones in her ears.

“At school. And that's going to be a reason for me to hang quickly for now. My next class will start in two minutes. I'll call you tomorrow, okay?” she asked, a hurrying her voice.

“It's fine, thanks for the surprise. Love you.” I said, waving at her.

“Love you too. Can't wait for next month. Bye!” she waved back and quickly ended the call.

Next month?

I wondered for a moment and almost slapped my head when I remembered, that we're going to Jerusalem for Christmas. How come I forgot that?

My brother left my room to let me fresh up and when I got to downstairs, mom and dad greeted me cheerfully than ever with their birthday wishes. Dad then led me out to our car porch, where his gift, a skating scooter, dark Violet in color, was waiting for me.

Time dragged by and I was occupied with a lot of calls and birthday messages from my friends and family, and also from some of my brother's friends.

By 11:30am, the door bell rang. I went to answer it and to my surprise, it was Emmy. I thought she would've gone to school but she said, her parents allowed her to cut class and come to me instead.

She held something in her hand like one holds his or hers skateboard –not huge as skateboard, don't get me wrong– and gave it to me when we parted from the hug. It looked like a framed picture from the outside, which was perfectly covered in a silver paper and tied with a emerald green ribbon.

My breath caught in my throat when my eyes landed on the picture. Tears crammed my eyes; it was us, the three of us; Emmy, Harry and I. It was taken after our last exam of our last academic year in school. I remember us going to a park in Harry's car and this was one of the pics Kent, his bodyguard, was asked to capture.

We were in our school uniforms, siting on handrails and laughing on something Harry happened to be saying. For a moment, I wished if I could go back to this time when nothing was wrong.

Emmy saw my tears, “I'm sorry Hayles, I didn't mean to–”

“No. It's perfect. I love it. Honestly.” I cut her off, wiping my tears away.

Emmy sighed and hugged me, “I'm so sorry you miss him, Hailey.” she said.

“Do you think he'll come?” I asked, glancing at her.

She shrugged sadly, “I don't know. But anything is possible with our God.” she said, forcing a smile.

I was grateful for Emmy's presence that help me to keep my mood uplifted. She promised she'd stay with me for the rest of the day. Why, she even brought her dress with her for the party so we could get ready together!

We spend our time painting our nails and watching Frozen until evening dropped by and mom send us up to my room to get dressed. I had no idea that Emmy had a special touch on natural makeup until today, when she did it for me from my new makeup set. By the time we were done, my grandparents and cousins arrived, followed by my brother who came from his work early today.

When it was darkening, the rest of our guests –my neighborhood friends, church friends, uncle and aunt, some of Mom's friends, Emmy's family and my brother's closest friends including Max– arrived.

Max came to me with that wide smile on his face and pressed a pile of banknotes into my hand, giving me a shock. He said, he didn't know what to buy for me and thought to give me some pocket money. I glanced down at the pile of banknotes in my hand; is this what they calls pocket money?

I asked him about Harry and his smile dropped. “I'm sorry Hailey, I tried all my best but, he wouldn't listen.” he sighed, “He won't be coming.”

“Okay.” I nodded and lowered my gaze to my feet when tears crammed into my eyes. I glanced around me, everyone was stuffed in laughter, enjoying themselves. My brother and his friends, were in their own world, laughing and patting each other. Mom was talking with Emmy's mom, my aunt, grandma and her friends in one corner and dad was with his father, brother and and some of his friends, including Emmy's dad. Not so far from us, Emmy's younger siblings and my other friends' siblings were playing with our Nicky. But I couldn't find a reason to laugh at all, let alone smile.

“Are you alright?” my neighbor asked me.

“Yeah,” I forced out a smile and nodded at her, lying. Only one person was missing in this gathering and his absence was undoubtedly visible. There's no hope Harry would be coming, it's too late now.

Once everyone arrived, the three layered Black Forest Cake was brought out to the table and everyone gathered around to sing the birthday song as mom and I prepared to blow off the candles.

“Now, make a wish.” mom told me when the song was over. All eyes fell on me and I closed my eyes for a brief moment, to make my wish. I never believed in this stuff but only thought it'd be a bit of fun. But today however, I wanted to believe that my wish will come true because, I want it to be so.

I wish Harry to be here and for the flourishing of our friendship to the rest of our life.

I could've wished for something else, like, I want to meet with Rilden when we go to Jerusalem next month for Christmas but, this one felt more powerful.

We all sat down with cake and wine in our hands, chatting to each other. The long we talked, the less we noticed the time going, until I heard a familiar phone ringtone. It was Max's. He gave a baffled look at his phone and then walked out, excusing himself from my brother and the boys. I turned my attention back to our girl pep talks while I heard Max calling out for my brother. Haxsel walked out and came back within two minutes, looking for me.

“Excuse me girls, can I borrow the birthday girl for a moment?” he asked the girls as he approached us.

“Why, of course!” Emmy said, cheerfully.

“What's it? Anything wrong?” I asked my brother as I stood up.

“Someone's out there to see you, refusing to enter.” my brother smiled at me.

My heart gave a jump, “Is that–”

“Hush, girl. See for yourself. I don't want you to be disappointed after making a wrong guess.” my brother's discouraging words echoed.

Soon I felt his hands covering my eyes and I protested right away. “Nuh uh, no way, I'm not going to let you lead me blind...” but it was worth nothing as my brother insisted on leading me like this. He helped me with the steps to climb down and finally when we reached the steady ground, he let go.

“This is the last and final time I'm allowing you to–”

I cut myself off and my eyes landed on two boys standing in front of me, just a few feet away. One was Max and other was–

“Harry,” my eyes went as big as saucers in disbelief. I blinked twice to make sure it's really him; dressed in black, cool and handsome as always in his style of black, and with his hands stuffed into his pockets, stood the person I wished to be here. It was indeed Harry, in real and flesh. I wanted to go and hug him immediately but I held myself back.

Max cleared his throat, bringing me back to reality, “We'll leave you two to...talk.” he said and walked back to our home, dragging my brother with him.

I tore my eyes from them and back to Harry, to see his eyes already on me. “Hey,” he greeted.

My heart gave an acceleration; It been days since I heard his voice.

“Hi,” I greeted back, too odd in my taste to greet Harry, of all people in the world.

A small smile wandered by the corner of his lips as he took some steps closer to where I stood. “Happy birthday.” he said.

“Thanks.” I said, tucking a loose lock of hair behind my ears, slightly shivering by the cold of the November. “I was losing my hope that you wouldn't come. I'm glad you're here.” I smiled at him.

Harry nodded, trying to hide a smile that made me smile too. “Sorry I was late.” he apologized.

“Does it matter now that you're here? I can't tell you how happy I am.” I said, not knowing whether I was feeling to cry of laugh in happiness, because the weather was freezing me.

Harry gave a deep sigh, looking up and then down at me. He opened his mouth to say something but shut it twice, hesitating at whatever he wants to tell me. He closed his eyes and sighed again, and when he opened them, the bit of amusement I saw in them had replaced with another emotion, something very strong.

He reached out for my left hand and squeezed it in his, before his eyes locked with mine. I, not expecting any kind of this gestures from him, suddenly felt my eyes watering up.

And then he spoke, “I missed you.”

I slid my gaze from his eyes to my shoes, trying to hide my tears but it became unbearable. I didn't waste any time to wrap my arms around his neck and hugged him tight.

“I missed you too!” I choked out, sobbing onto his shoulder. When he hugged me back, I couldn't help myself. “I'm so sorry, Harry! I'm so sorry! It's all my fault! I'm so sorry! I promise it won't happen again!” I cried.

“Hey, hey, hey,” he patted gently on my shoulders, “It's not your fault entirely–”

“Of course it's mine!” I cut him off, “I started it first! I was so stupid!”

He sighed into my hair, “Maybe you started it but it's not your fault entirely.” he said, gripping me tight, “I was avoiding you.”

“However, I learned my lesson, you know? I learned the cost of a friend; your cost.” I said in between my sobs. “Can you ever forgive me? I was so stupid! I didn't even thank you for saving me! Harry, I'm so–”

“Come on, Hailey,” he cut me off, “You know I can. I already forgave you as I hope you'll forgive me too.”

“Of course! Of course! I do!” I said, pulling my head back from the hug and looked into his deep brown eyes, “Are we back to the same old best friends?”

“Of course, you silly monkey.” he rolled his eyes, ruffling my hair. “Best friends and crime partners.” he winked and wiped away the tears from my cheeks with his thumb.

“So, everything is over now?” I asked, heart jumping with excitement.

Harry chuckled, “Yes,”

“So I don't have to feel left out again or to –”

“Oh shut up!”

I laughed with all my heart for the first time in two weeks. “Oh my goodness, Harry, I missed you so much! It was like my heart was half dead without you and seeing you in school with Orlana...” I paused and let out a growl.

Harry chuckled hard at my growl, “I'm so sorry about that, I was just trying to annoy you. Did that work on you?” he asked, laughing.

I narrowed my eyes at him playfully, “That was not funny Harry, and yes, it worked. But don't get any ideas.” I warned him, playfully.

“Honestly what are you thinking? That I'm going to let that brat hang around me anymore? You're unbelievable!” he shook his head at me.

I slapped him on head playfully, coming back to the old me around him. “Hey! I didn't say that!” I protested, “But, I'm looking forward to see how you're going to kick her off your back. This is really going to be impossible.”

“Is that a challenge?”

“Yes.”

“Alright,” he said and took his phone out from his pocket and turned on the camera, the selfie camera pointed on us.

“Hey, what are you doing?” I asked, not getting the point, but did wipe away my remaining tears from my eyes and cheeks.

“Just one pic can help.” Harry said, hugging me to his side, ready to capture the picture. “A nice smile will do.” he said and I rolled my eyes.

“Don't tell me you're going to send this to her.” I said as once he captured our pic.

“Trust me, I've got better plan than that.” he winked, slipping his phone back to his pocket.

I shrugged, “Alright then, let's go inside. Emmy will be blown away to see you!” I said, swinging our hands in the air.

Harry smiled sheepishly, “Well, she knows I'm here.”

“She what?”

“You heard me.”

“But, wait, so she was acting all the time?!”

“No, not all the time.” Harry grabbed my shoulder to calm me down, “I texted her two hours ago, or maybe, three. And I hope, Max disappointed you too? Sorry about that, he wasn't acting, I just didn't wanted him to take any credit saying that he dragged me to the party.” he said and sighed, “I wanted to come all by myself.” he reached out inside his pocket and took a round shaped ash-silver jewelry box out.

“I have something for you.” Harry said, just above a whisper, pressing it to my hand. “I hope you like it.” he said and encouraged me to open.

I held my breath and opened the box which had Canfield written above in silver, from which I understood, this is from their own collection. Inside, on a black small cushion, laid an...

“Anklet.” Harry spoke as he saw me confused whether it's a bracelet or an anklet, because I've never seen one before. “It's one of my mom's masterpiece design, which she had designed before she left.”

My heart sank at his words, “Harry, you didn't had to...”

“Oh, shut it.” he said, “Can I help you to put on?” he offered himself.

“If you wish,” I smiled. He took the white gold jewelry piece delicately into his fingers and bended down. I took a step of my right leg forward and he put it on around my angle.

I examined the jewelry; it was thin-chained and delicate with tiny star studded here and there, the lock of the chain was finished in a heart shape. The anklet was sparkling in the moonlight pouring over us, and to my shocking surprise, it also had tiny diamond shards.

I hugged Harry when he straightened himself up, “Thank you so much, Harry, this is beautiful!” I gasped.

“You liked it?” he asked.

“What a question? I love it! It's perfect! Your mom must've been a very talented designer. This is so gorgeous!” I almost exclaimed.

Harry smiled, “My mom would've given you her most beautiful smile now if she was here to hear your words.” I noticed his voice crack a bit.

I frowned hearing about his mom, “I'm so sorry, Harry.” I said.

“Oh it's nothing.” he shook his head, “Just, promise me you won't take it off. Ever.” he said, looking deep into my eyes, pressing the last word.

“But Harry, I'm scared I might lose it if I carry it along with me. It's so precious–”

Harry cut me off, “If you lose this, I can buy you ten more, no worries.” the casual Harry said.

He always says such things and so I thought it's wise to keep my mouth shut. “And what about school? We're not allowed–”

He cut me off again, “Stuff it inside your socks, no one will find it.” he said, slightly annoyed, before adding, “So, can you promise me now?”

“Yes.” I smirked and looked back at my home. “Let's go inside, I don't want to have you freezing.” I said, grabbing his arm.

But Harry protested, “I don't want to make a scene.”

“Excuse me?” I asked.

For some moments that passed by, Harry and I stood there, me, pressing him to come in and he, protesting. I think he feels guilty but shouldn't I be the one to feel it more? Anyway at last, he agreed. Before we went in, I went out of the gate with Harry to ask his bodyguard Kent to join us. By as the modest as he always had been, Kent politely declined and didn't even move. So I decided to leave it to Haxsel and Maxell.

“So, what wish did you make this time before blowing off the candles?” Harry asked as we both walked back into my home, hand in hand. He kept on guessing all odd things to annoy me and I had to cut him off at last.

“Actually, I was wishing for you to be here.” I glanced at him, “And here you are.”

Harry gaped at me, a sparkling in his eyes. “Really?” he shook his head in disbelief, “I actually never believed in making wishes and on birthday candles.”

“So don't, neither do I. I'm certain that you were probably on you way to here when I made my wish, so it's definitely not granted by the wish. It was God who brought you here.” I said, smiling at him. And for the first time in my memories, Harry didn't protest a word against God but smiled in understanding.

Suddenly, as we almost reached the veranda, the door opened and Emmy came to us, tackling in a group up. We all laughed and, Emmy and I teared up a bit at our reunion.

“Inseparable best friends?”

“And crime partners?”

“To the end of time.”

God, I don't know how to thank you enough for doing this for me, for making this the most happiest birthday I ever had. I will remember this day for the rest of my life. When I thought it's impossible, you made it possible and gave me back my best friend as the best gift I could ask for this birthday. All glory and honor is yours and yours alone. In your son and my savior Jesus' name I pray, Amen.