Hayden

Coleen had slipped out earlier for class, kissing me goodbye like she wanted to glue herself to me, and ever since then, every part of my morning had carried her with it.

Her laugh echoed in my head when I brushed my teeth. Her sleepy smile haunted me when I grabbed my backpack. Even my coffee tasted better, and I had no doubt it was because of her.

Birthdays had always been just another day for me. A text from my parents, if they remembered. Maybe a pat on the back from ...