Shinichi gritted his teeth and plastered a fake smile on his face as the party continued in full swing around him. Every one of the guests was either laughing or dancing or telling a stupid story of one of his exploits as Conan, but every one of them was completely unaware of how much the newly restored teenage detective didn't want to be there.

Even though it was his birthday.

Shinichi grimaced again as his mother opened the door for yet another guest, but he felt a little better as the detective boys suddenly came rushing in.

"Shinichi-niichan!" Ayumi shouted happily and ran over too him wrapping her arms around his legs in a hug, "Happy birthday!"

"Happy birthday Shinichi-san" Shinichi's annoyance faded slightly as slight blush spread over Mitsuhiko's cheeks and his eyes darted away for a second. Shinichi sighed and knelt down in front of the children.

He smiled reassuringly, "Thank you guys for coming." Ayumi beamed as Mitsuhiko's blush deepened and a small smile graced his lips.

"What about me?" the detective turned his head and had to smile himself at the scowl on Genta's face, "I came to wish you a happy birthday too you know."

A happy chuckle came from the detective before he could stop it, "Of course Genta how could I forget you? I even had some eel prepared especially for you."

Genta's face lit up, "Really!" Shinichi nodded. "Yeah!" he began to jump up and down before racing to the kitchen. Ayumi ran after him calling his name while Mitsuhiko sighed and rubbed his forehead. Shinichi chuckled again.

"He doesn't change does he?"

"I'm sorry Shinichi-san," Mitsuhiko's face was now beat red, "we came here for you and he ends up obsessed with eating again. We even brought the present Kaito wanted to give you."

Shinichi blinked, "Kaito?"

Mitsuhiko's eyes went wide as he slapped his hands over his mouth. Shinichi studied him for a minute before letting a truly genuine smile split his face. Gently placing his hand on the boy's shoulder he stood up again, "Well I'll just have to thank him the next time I see him, but until then why don't you and I get something to eat as well."

The boy lit up before grabbing Shinichi's hand and pulling him into the kitchen with the others.

In the corner of the room a young girl stood up smiling a smile that she reserved only for truly important occasions. Her sea blue eyes followed the detective and the boy until they had rounded the corner. Seeing her mission accomplished she made her way to the front door. Before leaving however she pulled a small note out of her pocketbook and placed it on the side table, she then left.

Several hours later the final party guests left. Shinichi slumped against the closed door and let himself slide down the wood. Even though he was physically exhausted he couldn't help but smile as he pulled a small piece of paper out of his pocket and read the words again.

To my beloved Shin-chan, I hope this brightens your day. I'm sorry I couldn't be there to give you your present in person, but I sent a few friends of mine to make sure you got at least a little birthday cheer. I hope you like it and I hope to see you soon.

With love

Kaito

Shinichi looked down at the silver bracelet that adorned his wrist, a small white dove charm dangled from one of the links. He closed his eyes and leaned his head against the door, "Baro."