Chapter 1100

Pax let out a dramatic sigh, hands jammed in his pockets, slouching like he'd time-traveled straight back to his teenage years. He scrunched up his face and grumbled, "Uncle, now that you're finally awake, I can actually breathe again. Do you have any idea what this past year has been like for me? No sleep, barely eating-seriously, Diana's worried I'm not gonna make it to adulthood at this rate." Chloe shot him a look. "Oh, come on, don't say things like that! You'll jinx it."

The Sartori house hadn't felt this alive in ages. Lights sparkled everywhere, colorful banners hung from the ceiling, and laughter bounced off the walls. The whole place was bursting with energy.

Tim was practically lost in a pile of presents in the grand hall-gifts stacked so high, it was a wonder he could find his way out.

In the middle of all the excitement, Chloe caught sight of Summer standing quietly off to the side. Summer always knew just what to do greet guests when he should, remember everyone's names, polite and poised, the picture of good manners. But when his presence wasn't needed, he'd quietly melt into the background, content to watch the celebration from afar, like he didn't quite belong.

Of course, Tim never let him stay hidden for long. Over and over, Tim would dart over, grab his hand, and pull him back into the party.

"Brother! Brother!" Tim called out, as chatty and persistent as ever, like a little bird that just couldn't keep quiet.

Summer could only shake his head, a helpless smile tugging at his lips. "Tim, it's your birthday. Everyone's waiting for you to blow out the candles. Don't worry about me."

But Tim clung to his arm. "I'm your shadow, remember? If I don't stick with you, who else would I follow around? Come on, let's blow out the candles together!"

So Tim dragged Summer to the center of the crowd.

Music played as a giant birthday cake was wheeled out, topped with five glowing candles.

"Tim, make a

together, squeezed his eyes shut, and

sparkling. "What

better soon, and

for a moment, the words hanging in the air, everyone a

is definitely coming true, Tim. Uncle Kash will always protect you. From now

"And Uncle

bring you anything you want-just say

he had to say something too. But with Isaac always trying

stay quiet.

Uncle

and mind. If you ever

looking a little lost. "You guys already said all the

What am I even supposed to say

Everyone burst out laughing.

the candlelight, Chloe's eyes

moment, happiness felt real

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