**A Promise Written on the Rusted Edge of Time by Dael Rowan Sire**
It had been an eternity since Avery had truly let herself unwind. The pajama party buzzed with laughter and chatter, a whirlwind of joy and freedom. She indulged in several drinks, the sweet, fruity concoctions warming her from the inside out, and with each sip, her inhibitions melted away.
After a spirited pillow fight that left everyone breathless, her spirits soared to dizzying heights. She felt so alive that even the sight of random cats wandering the street made her grin and wave, as if they were old friends.
But as the night wore on and the party began to dwindle, the euphoria gradually faded. After ensuring her last two neighbors, who were hilariously tipsy and swaying, made it safely to their doorstep, she turned back toward her own home, humming a lighthearted tune that danced on the cool night air.
As she approached her door, a shadow caught her eye. A figure stood there, silhouetted against the dim light, clutching a box.
It was late. Her birthday had officially concluded, so who could possibly be visiting at this hour?
As she drew nearer, recognition hit her like a sudden chill. The familiar face sent her heart plummeting, and the warmth of her earlier joy evaporated.
“What are you doing here?” she asked, her voice colder than she intended, a sharp contrast to the warmth of the evening.
Ethan’s expression shifted, a flicker of pain crossing his features, barely perceptible but unmistakable. He cleared his throat, his voice rough around the edges.
“Avery, Happy birthday,” he said, attempting to bridge the chasm that had grown between them.
She remained silent, her heart pounding with a mix of anger and confusion. Ignoring him, she unlocked her door, ready to retreat into the safety of her home.
Ethan, sensing her dismissal, called out again, desperation creeping into his tone.
“Happy birthday, Avery. I brought you a gift.”
His voice echoed, loud enough for her mother to hear from the living room, breaking the fragile silence of the night.
“Who’s there? Avery, is that you?” her mother called, concern lacing her words.
Avery’s heart raced at the thought of her parents knowing Ethan was here. She quickly replied, trying to conceal the turmoil within.
“It’s me! Just getting some fresh air. I’ll be in soon,” she called back, her voice strained as she turned to face Ethan, making her stance clear.



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