The Last One | Project Fear

The sweet, slightly burnt scent of brownies filled the air, mingling with the excited chatter of my friends and family. "Happy birthday to you!" they sang, their voices a joyous, slightly off-key chorus. As the final notes faded, I leaned forward, a secret wish forming in my mind. I wished for my life to be full of adventure.

With a deep breath, I blew out the candles, watching the tiny flames vanish. Cheers erupted, followed by Tim's half-hearted attempt at a chant that was quickly shut down. Mom, with a knowing smile, began plucking candles from the brownies.

"So, how's it feel to be eighteen?" Xavier asked, as I adjusted the strap of my tank top. It was three days past my actual birthday, but Saturday was the perfect day for a party. Honestly, eighteen didn't feel all that different from seventeen, but I figured that was just a matter of perspective.

"You're legal!" Tess exclaimed, drumming her hands on the table. I rolled my eyes playfully. "I mean, it's just a birthday," I said with a shrug. "Nothing—"

A knock on the front door interrupted me. Melissa knitted her brow. "Who's that?" she wondered. Danny teased, "Maybe it's Meghan, wondering where her invitation is." I shot him a glare. "Don't even joke about that."

Mom moved towards the door with a surprising ease, as if she already knew who awaited. She opened it, and my eyes widened, a smile blooming on my face as I recognized the figure stepping through the storm door. "Tanner!" I shouted, scrambling from my chair to run towards him.