Birthday Kill

I:

-Kohaku-

It’s another year again. I just want a normal birthday for a change. No mom screwing around, being drunk. No Basho hitting on me. Nothing weird. Just a nice, normal birthday.

I sighed.

Yeah, like that would ever happen. I got ready for another crazy birthday this year.

II:

I made it down to the kitchen.

“Good morning!” Haruko said. I looked up at her, frowning. I walked over to the kitchen table. I grabbed my breakfast started ending.

“Happy birthday!” Haruko said. I glared at her and sneered.

“Did someone say birthday?” a voice asked. We looked up to see Clare grinning at me at the table. I rolled my eyes.

“Why are you still here?” Haruko asked. Clare gave her a goofy smile as she shrugged. I rubbed my forehead.

“Thanks for breakfast,” I said. I got up and walked out of the kitchen.

“Have a good day!” Haruko called after me. I flipped her off.

III:

No school today. Still, I had to get away. I shoved my hands into my pockets and frowned. Mom hadn’t been home yet. There was that at least. I sighed and shook my head. Don’t think about her. Just get through today.

I took a slow breath. Okay. I can do this.

“Hey!” someone shouted behind me. I froze. Don’t tell me…

I slowly turned my head.

IV:

Clare put her arm around my shoulders and grinned. Why was she here?

“Hey Birthday Girl!” she said. I turned to her, sneering.

“What are you doing?” I asked. Clare giggled. “Just hanging with my new best friend!” I cut side eye at her.

“We are not friends,” I muttered.

“Hm?” Clare asked. I shook my head.

“Who are you?” I asked. I pushed her off and turned around. Clare stood there, grinning.

“I’m your fairy godmother and I’m here to give you a happy birthday!” she cheered. I wrinkled my nose.

“Seriously?” I asked.

“Uh-huh!” she said, nodding. I frowned and narrowed my eyes. This strange woman still grinned.

V:

Just like every year before, my birthday will take a weird turn. Clare was going to turn it that way. Her weapon of choice? Fire. Here’s what happened…