Chapter 107: The Best Birthday Ever
Diane’s POV
I woke up to the sound of soft knocking on my room door, followed by Joan’s familiar voice singing "Happy Birthday" in her slightly off-key but enthusiastic way. My heart swelled as I heard my mother’s voice joining in, creating a beautiful harmony that filled the quiet morning air.
"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Diane, happy birthday to you!"
I couldn’t help but smile as I sat up in bed, one hand instinctively moving to my rounded belly where the twins were already stirring, as if they too could sense the special energy of the day.
"Come in," I called softly, and Joan practically bounced through the door with my mother close behind, both wearing bright smiles and carrying steaming cups of what smelled like my favorite herbal tea.
"Happy birthday, sweetheart," my mother said, settling carefully on the edge of my bed and pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead. The simple gesture brought tears to my eyes—how long had it been since I’d felt this kind of uncomplicated love and celebration?
"Thank you both," I whispered, accepting the warm cup Joan handed me. "This is already the perfect start to my day."
My phone rang just as I took my first sip, and Dad’s name appeared on the screen. Despite everything we’d been through, seeing his contact information made my heart flutter with excitement.
"Happy birthday, princess," his warm voice came through the speaker as soon as I answered. "I’m so sorry I can’t be there this morning—I had to go back home to handle some urgent business matters, but I’ll be there for your birthday later. I wouldn’t miss it for the world."
"Thank you, Dad," I said, and the words came easier now than they had weeks ago. "I understand about the business. Just knowing you remembered means everything to me."
After we hung up, Joan was already bustling around my room with suspicious energy, humming under her breath and avoiding my eyes in a way that seemed almost theatrical.