Louis Crane woke to the soft hum of morning. The sun filtered through his window, painting his bedroom in streaks of gold. He stretched lazily, a satisfied grin curling his lips. Today was his birthday. While he hadn't planned anything extravagant, he was content to spend the day with Stewart, his ever-thoughtful boyfriend.
"Morning, birthday boy," Stewart greeted with a kiss on Louis's forehead as he wandered into the kitchen. "I figured we could start the day with your favorite—French toast with caramelized bananas."
Louis beamed. Stewart's culinary skills were one of the many things he adored about him. "You spoil me," he teased, sitting down at the table.
The day unfolded with a leisurely pace. Stewart suggested they go to the park for a walk, then insisted on treating Louis to lunch at his favorite café. Still, there was an air of secrecy about Stewart—furtive glances at his phone, quick, hushed conversations Louis wasn't privy to.
"You're up to something," Louis accused with a smirk as they walked back to their apartment in the late afternoon.
"Me? Never," Stewart replied, feigning innocence. His lopsided grin betrayed him, but Louis decided to let it slide.
When they arrived home, Stewart opened the door for Louis with an exaggerated flourish. "After you," he said, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
Louis stepped inside and was met with a thunderous "Surprise!"
The living room was a burst of color. Balloons and streamers hung from the ceiling, and a banner reading "Happy Birthday, Louis!" stretched across the wall. Standing among the decorations were his closest friends and family: Dorothy, Lenoir, and Lewis, alongside Jervis and Jonathan, who were wearing matching top hats for the occasion.
Louis turned to Stewart, his eyes wide. "You planned this?"
"Of course," Stewart said, pulling him into a hug. "You deserve a celebration, even if you weren't going to plan one yourself."
The evening was a whirlwind of laughter, music, and stories. Dorothy sang a rendition of Louis's favorite song while Lenoir and Lewis managed to start a game of charades that left everyone in stitches. Jervis and Jonathan recounted tales from Louis's childhood, much to his embarrassment.
When the cake—a decadent chocolate masterpiece—was brought out, Louis couldn't stop smiling. As everyone sang "Happy Birthday," he caught Stewart's eye and mouthed, "Thank you."
Stewart leaned in and whispered, "Anything for you, Louis."
Blowing out the candles, Louis realized this was more than just a birthday. It was a reminder of how deeply he was loved—not just by Stewart but by everyone around him.
As the evening wound down, and the guests began to leave, Louis found himself curled up on the couch with Stewart, the remnants of the party scattered around them.
"Best birthday ever," Louis murmured, resting his head on Stewart's shoulder.
Stewart chuckled, kissing the top of his head. "Just wait until next year."