Chapter 11 - ASHLEIGH

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"

I hear a chorus of voices waking me up from my peaceful sleep. Mum, dad, Brent, Ollie, Uncle David, and Auntie Sarah were all around my bed with huge goofy smiles and arms stretched wide, each holding a present. I sit up and rub my eyes, taking in the view from my bed.

I smile warmly. "Aww, thank you all so much!" I say as I get out of bed and walk over to mum and dad, giving them a hug first.

"Well, today you officially become an adult, so we wanted to let you enjoy this moment before heading off to school," mum said.

They put the presents on the bed and they each give me a quick hug. "I know we don't have much time before school but quickly get ready and come down to breakfast. Alex is off on patrol this morning and Meghan is just downstairs getting set up," dad said.

"Sure Dad. I won't be too long. I’ll just have a quick shower and get ready," I reply as they wave and leave the room.

'Happy birthday Kia,' I whisper to her, hoping she would hear me.

I feel he