Chapter 103

• After a few more weeks, I could finally call my new house a home. I’d gotten used to the new routine I’d set for myself. It was the early hours of January twenty-ninth, a date that should’ve meant something special—but for me, it just made the sadness heavier. The first thing I did when I woke up was go talk to Mr. Mysterious.
• “It’s my birthday today. Don’t I deserve a gift?” I hadn’t planned a party—didn’t really have anyone to invite anyway. The only birthday wishes I’d gotten so far were from Marcos and his family, who sent me a message as soon as the day started.
• My mom would probably only text me late at night—if she remembered. As for my friends, I didn’t tell any of them about today. I was afraid they’d find out and still not say anything, just like my old classmates used to do. Being ignored like that… it hurt too much. So I figured, if they didn’t know and didn’t say anything, I wouldn’t have to deal with that pain.