Halfway There

It’s my birthday. Yeah. Whatever. Birthdays just bring back bad memories for me. I’m fifteen now, by the way.

Minnie came up to me as I laid in bed that morning, meowing what I’m assuming was a “Happy Birthday.” Great. Even the cat knows.

I was just planning on lying in bed all day, when Carl came in. He kisses my lips, nearly yelling in my ear, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMMA!!!!!!!!” I wanted to slap him senseless when he did that.

Instead, I merely buried myself under a pile of covers. I hoped he would get the message and leave. But, we all know Carl. So, he just stayed sitting beside, waiting patiently. He is so annoying.

“Can I help you?” I grumble sarcastically.

“What do you want to do? It’s your birthday, Emma.”

“I want to stay in bed. Now leave me alone.”

“I was afraid that you’d say that.” Carl sighs. “Guys, get in here.”

I poke my head out, looking at him confusedly. “Carl, who are you —”

The door swung open. My brothers and sisters walked in. Tears stung my eyes. I ran out of the room before my memories could smother me.