2

I wake up to soft knocks on my door. Seems like I fell asleep while hugging my dad. 'Yes?'

A cousin walks in. 'Ari, it' s dinnertime. We've prepared some French fries for you. Are you hungry?' I look at her timer. Around 2 years and 4 months. 'Uhm, Ari?'

It must look kind of weird, me staring at her chest. I feel my face getting red. 'Y-Yes! Sorry, Tama! I'll get down right away!' I jump out of bed and follow her downstairs.

After dinner, the guests start to leave. Just when I think I can rest, Tama walks up to me. 'You were kind of acting weird today. I know you're going through puberty, so I won't worry too much, but if anything is wrong please tell me, okay?' She smiles at me softly.

I smile back. 'Of course. Thanks, Tama.'

After that, things almost seem normal. The first two days after my birthday aren't anything special either. But today, the third day, my mom's timer should run out. I nervously watch her get ready for work, still in my pajamas. I told my dad I was sick (which I actually am, due to stress), so I'm allowed to stay home.

'See you tonight,' she says, walking towards the door.

I run to stop her, afraid that this will be the last time I see her. 'Mama, I love you! A lot! Don't forget that!' I say as tears start to form in my eyes and I hug her tightly.

She's shocked at first, but quickly returns my hug. 'I know. I love you too.' She kisses the top of my head, a loving gesture I didn't expect, and leaves. It was the last moment of our normal life together, and the first painful lie she told me.