****************
CHAPTER 26
~Spring's POV~
My father stepped closer, ruffling my hair like he used to when I was small. "Eighteen already. You're almost taller than your mother."
"Not quite," I murmured with a small smile, even though I couldn't quite meet his eyes.
Kaius cleared his throat subtly and gestured toward the cake on the table. "Before this wax starts dripping all over the frosting… We should cut the cake."
I smiled as we all moved toward it. The cake was simple but beautiful—white and soft lilac with gold lettering that spelt my name across the top.
Everyone gathered around. My mother and father flanked me on either side, and my brothers stood behind like a shield.
I closed my eyes, making a simple wish to the Moon Goddess to let me live a more peaceful life and blew out the candles.
Everyone clapped, even if it was just us in the room.
Because somewhere deep down, under the laughter and sugar and hugs, I was still unsure.