Birthday Magic: A Surprise from Paris

On my eighteenth birthday, I was surprised with a parcel from Paris. At first glance, I suspected it was from Adrien, but then I thought, "He didn't mention anything when we talked yesterday... What could he have forgotten to tell me?" As I noticed his country's name on the package, excitement bubbled within me. Rushing to my room, I closed the door and covered the window with curtains, eager to unveil the mystery held within.

I carefully unwrapped the package, resisting the urge to tear it open. Inside, I discovered a beautiful jewelry box accompanied by a note. The words on the note spoke to my heart: "One day, someone will walk into your life and make you realize how special you are." As I read on, anticipation built up, "I wish I could see you through my eyes and say what I've wanted to for so long... But let's stop there; we can talk about this later. So, are you ready to write a new chapter of your life?" Adrien didn't sign his name, leaving an air of mystery. I chuckled softly, a genuine smile forming.

Opening the jewelry box revealed a breathtaking crystal choker necklace with a purple diamond rose pendant, exuding elegance. Alongside it was a manual, and my curiosity intensified. Reading through, I discovered a unique function that heightened my excitement. Surprisingly, an invitation to Paris was nestled within the manual, specifying a time and location. However, there was no plane ticket, and my lack of a passport left me puzzled about how to proceed.

Upon closer inspection, I was astonished to find the event's time and date: "Today at 11:00 p.m. in India and 8:00 p.m. in Paris." It was the most unexpected gift I'd ever received. How could I possibly make it there on such short notice? My thoughts swirled with uncertainty.

"Ember, go get ready; we are going out to celebrate your birthday," my mother's announcement snapped me out of my contemplation. Hiding the parcel under my bed, I packed everything away.

For the birthday celebration, I chose a lovely lavender Indian attire. While selecting jewelry, I thought, "Adrien's gift would complement my outfit perfectly," deciding to wear it for the party.

Descending the stairs, I joined my family, a small, close-knit unit. Zen, my younger brother, complimented me, "You look beautiful, Ember. That necklace is stunning."

"Thank you. It's a gift from my fr... It's a gift I prepared for myself," I corrected myself, weaving a little white lie.

Amidst well-wishes and thoughtful gifts, the clock ticked towards 10:30. We returned home, exhausted from the festivities, bidding each other goodnight. Alone in my room, wiping cake from my face, I glanced at the clock – 10:45. Remembering to inform Adrien about the party, I reached for my phone, only to discover it was out of battery. Plugging it in, I realized I was running out of time.

As I went to remove the necklace, a daring thought crossed my mind: "What if I could actually go to Paris?" Murmuring to myself, I unclasped it, inadvertently pressing something.

"Hello, I am Melon, your assistant," a voice echoed.

Checking my phone, I realized the voice didn't come from there. Confused, I inquired, "Miss Ember, you are confused, right?" Melon's voice filled the room.

"Yes, I am confused, Melon. Where are you speaking to me from?" I sought clarification.

"You didn't read the manual, did you?" Melon sighed.

"Which manual?" I asked.

"Sir Adrien was right; it's not good to send a manual. He said you might feel too lazy to read it. That's why he added me to assist you here," Melon explained.

"So that's what he thinks of me," I muttered, annoyance clear in my voice.

"Allow me to introduce myself again. I am Melon, a software here to assist you. I reside in your necklace. When you wear it and press the button on the back, I can communicate with you," Melon clarified.

"That's good, but why do I need assistance?" I asked, still perplexed.

"Oh! Haven't you received an invitation?" Melon questioned.

"Yes, I have," I replied.

"Then allow me to take you there," Melon said.

"What? How? To Paris?" I was taken aback.

"I will teleport you from here to the Paris party event. You just need to say, 'Melon, take me,' and tell me the address. I will take you there. Do you understand?" Melon explained.

"I'm sitting here and I can't believe this. Just tell me the address now; we're running out of time," Melon urged.

"Running out of time for what?" I asked, my heart racing.

"The party. Read the address and say, 'Melon, take me there,'" Melon said.

"I read the address and, hesitantly, said, 'Melon, take me there...'"

A bright light surrounded me, and in an instant, I found myself in a dark area. Another blink, and I was in a room when I opened my eyes. I was lying on a bed, and two girls stood beside me.

"Who are you?" I asked in surprise.

"We are here to help you," they replied.

I glanced around, admiring the beautiful black and grey room with soft lighting, exactly as I had envisioned for my future home. When I stood up, I saw a stunning black evening gown.

"Wow, it's so beautiful," I exclaimed.

"You'll be wearing this tonight," the girls informed me, approaching to help me get dressed.

"Me, really?" I was still in disbelief.

"Yes, ma'am. If you're ready, we'll assist you in getting ready," one of the girls said.

"Okay," I agreed.

The girls expertly helped me into the gown, styled my hair into an elegant bun, and ensured that the dress and heels fit perfectly. I was amazed by their skills.

They informed me that the party was upstairs and that I would meet "sir" there. They escorted me to the main entrance of the party.

This was my first time attending such an extravagant event, and it had all happened so suddenly. I felt nervous but knew I had to face it if I wanted to meet him. I took a few deep breaths and mustered the courage to step forward.

As the door opened, I could clearly see Adrien standing in the midst of a crowd. As I walked closer, the distance between us decreased, and I couldn't believe my eyes. The person whose voice I had only heard for so long was right in front of me. He looked even more handsome in person, with his tousled black-blond hair and a perfectly fitted black tuxedo. His emerald green eyes shone on his fair skin.

"Oh my God, what am I thinking?" I scolded myself silently, trying to shake off the mesmerizing effect of his gaze. I decided to break the awkward silence by calling out, "Hey Adrien, my best friend! Long time no see." We were now just a few steps apart, and our eye contact was intense.