The ticking the clock sounded louder in the room than usual. The lighting was dim. The brightest source of light was coming from a small, flicking flame in the center of the room. A shadowed figure was hunched over beside the flame. The light from the flame licked at pale features and illuminated large eyes. Slender fingers played with fair strands of hair and large eyes watched the clock. When the two hands on the clock finally reached the top, signaling midnight, Nate pursed his lips and softly blew out the candle on top of the cupcake.

"Happy Birthday, Mihael …"