The Wish

By JT WULF

In "The Wish," Andrew, an introspective boy, is celebrating his eleventh birthday with his friends and family. However, he feels strangely detached from the joyous atmosphere, sensing a mysterious energy in the air. As he closes his eyes to make a wish, he wishes for a different life and suddenly finds himself transported to a nightmarish world where his home has become a decaying husk.

Andrew's friends have vanished, and his mother is replaced by a harsh woman who claims to be his mother. Andrew desperately tries to find a way out of this twisted reality, but the woman is unrelenting, insisting that she has always been his mother. Andrew is haunted by the memory of the happy life he once had and pleads with the woman to let him go back to his old life.

As Andrew searches for a way out, he discovers a photograph that reminds him of the happy memories he once had with his real mother. He clings to this memory as a beacon of hope, pleading with the woman to let him go back to his old life. But the woman is relentless and cruel, insisting that Andrew does not deserve the life she gave him.

As Andrew struggles to escape from this twisted reality, he must confront the consequences of his wish and fight for his right to live the life he deserves. In a heart-pounding climax, Andrew faces off against the woman who claims to be his mother, determined to reclaim his old life and escape from this nightmare once and for all.

"The Wish" is a gripping horror novel that explores the consequences of our deepest desires and the lengths we will go to escape our own reality.
 

• Language: English
• Publisher: True American Publishing
• Release date: Mar 14, 2024
• ISBN: 9798215513736

JT WULF

JT WULF is a best selling author in the genres of horror and suspense thriller. His books include: The Transition Hole, Dead, The Inn, The Cellar Door, The RIP Club, A Town Called Thereafter, Karma: The Final Payment 

Book preview

INTRODUCTION

In The Wish, Andrew, an introspective boy, is celebrating his eleventh birthday with his friends and family. However, he feels strangely detached from the joyous atmosphere, sensing a mysterious energy in the air. As he closes his eyes to make a wish, he wishes for a different life and suddenly finds himself transported to a nightmarish world where his home has become a decaying husk.

––––––––

Andrew's friends have vanished, and his mother is replaced by a harsh woman who claims to be his mother. Andrew desperately tries to find a way out of this twisted reality, but the woman is unrelenting, insisting that she has always been his mother. Andrew is haunted by the memory of the happy life he once had and pleads with the woman to let him go back to his old life.

––––––––

As Andrew searches for a way out, he discovers a photograph that reminds him of the happy memories he once had with his real mother. He clings to this memory as a beacon of hope, pleading with the woman to let him go back to his old life. But the woman is relentless and cruel, insisting that Andrew does not deserve the life she gave him.

––––––––

As Andrew struggles to escape from this twisted reality, he must confront the consequences of his wish and fight for his right to live the life he deserves. In a heart-pounding climax, Andrew faces off against the woman who claims to be his mother, determined to reclaim his old life and escape from this nightmare once and for all.

––––––––

The Wish is a gripping horror novel that explores the consequences of our deepest desires and the lengths we will go to escape our own reality.

CHAPTER 1

Happy birthday to you... The chorus of familiar voices filled the dimly lit living room as Andrew stood at the center, clutching a cake with eleven flickering candles. His family and friends surrounded him, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of the candles.

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Happy birthday, dear Andrew, they sang, their eyes fixed on him with love and affection. Happy birthday to you!

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As the last note hung in the air, Andrew's gaze wandered around the room, taking in the colorful streamers that adorned the walls and the cluster of helium-filled balloons bobbing gently against the ceiling. He noticed the smiles on the faces of his loved ones – Aunt May, who always had a kind word for him; Uncle Jack, with his boisterous laugh that seemed to shake the whole house; and little cousin Lily, her wide-eyed excitement contagious.

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But despite the festive atmosphere and the warmth of the people surrounding him, Andrew couldn't shake the feeling of detachment, as if he were observing the scene from outside himself. And there was something else, too – a strange energy in the air, like an electric current running beneath the surface of things.

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Make a wish, kiddo! urged Aunt May, breaking through Andrew's reverie. Her eyes crinkled at the corners as she smiled, but Andrew couldn't help thinking that her smile didn't quite reach her eyes.

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Yeah, make it a good one! chimed in Uncle Jack, ruffling Andrew's curly brown hair playfully.

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Andrew glanced around once more, trying to pinpoint the source of the unease that lingered at the edge of his consciousness. Was it just his imagination, or was there something truly off about this gathering? He shook the thought away, forcing a smile as he turned his attention back to the cake before him.

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Catherine's loving eyes met Andrew's as she stepped forward, her arms outstretched. The scent of her lavender perfume enveloped him as she wrapped him in a warm embrace, her wavy blonde hair brushing against his cheek. I am so proud of you, my love, she whispered, her voice tinged with emotion. You're growing up so fast. Just remember that I'll always be here for you, no matter what.

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Thanks, Mom, Andrew murmured, feeling a familiar swell of gratitude for the woman who had always been his rock. The comfort of her presence helped to quell the uneasiness that had been nagging at him earlier.

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Hey, birthday boy! Danny called out, sidling up beside them with a playful grin on his face. His dark eyes danced with excitement, signaling that he was about to reveal something thrilling. I've got a little something for you. In his hands, he held a small, neatly-wrapped gift.

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Whoa, what's this? Andrew asked, accepting the present with a mixture of curiosity and anticipation.

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Open it up and see! Danny urged, bouncing on the balls of his feet.

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As Andrew carefully peeled away the wrapping paper, he couldn't help but feel grateful for Danny's unwavering friendship over the years. Their bond had only grown stronger since they first met in kindergarten, and Andrew knew he could always count on Danny to bring a sense of adventure into his life.

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Come on, man, don't keep me in suspense! Danny exclaimed. What do you think?

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Andrew chuckled at his friend's impatience, but inwardly, he wondered if Danny could sense the strange energy that had been plaguing him all evening. He hesitated for a moment, then shook off the lingering doubt and focused on the excitement of the moment.

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Alright, alright, just give me a second, he said, finally revealing the contents of the gift. The sight of it brought a genuine smile to his face, and he looked up at Danny with appreciation. This is perfect, man. You always know just what I like.

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Of course I do! Danny replied, grinning proudly. Now, let's enjoy the rest of your party!

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As Andrew nodded in agreement, he couldn't help but feel a small tug of worry in the back of his mind. Despite the love and warmth of his family and friends, something still felt off about this night. He glanced around the room, searching for any explanation for his unease, but found nothing.

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Wow, this is amazing! Andrew exclaimed as he tore off the wrapping paper to reveal a new book. It was from his favorite genre - horror and suspense. He couldn't wait to dive into its pages and lose himself in another world. Thank you so much, Danny!

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Of course, buddy! Danny grinned, pleased with himself for choosing the perfect gift. I knew it would be right up your alley.

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As the celebration continued around them, Andrew's mind began to drift. He clutched the book tightly in his hands, feeling the weight of its pages and the thrill of the unknown stories that lay within. Yet, even amidst the excitement of his birthday party and the thoughtful gift from Danny, he couldn't shake the disquieting sensation that had settled over him earlier.

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Andrew, Catherine called out, pulling him from his thoughts. Don't forget to share your cake with everyone!

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Right, sure thing, Mom, he replied absentmindedly, still preoccupied with the mysterious energy he felt lingering in the air.

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Hey, man. Danny nudged him gently, concern written on his face. You okay? You seem a little...distracted.

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Ah, I'm alright, Andrew replied, attempting a reassuring smile. Just lost in thought, I guess.

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Alright, well, don't let your imagination run too wild now, Danny joked, a playful tone in his voice. Save that for when you read your new book!

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Ha! Don't worry, I will, Andrew said, grateful for the lighthearted moment. But as the laughter died down and conversations resumed around him, he couldn't help but feel like an outsider looking in - as if the strange energy that had enveloped him pushed him further away from those he loved.

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Could it be just his imagination running wild, as Danny suggested? Or was there something more to it? As he turned the book over in his hands, examining its cover and pages, Andrew couldn't help but wonder if the answers he sought were hidden within the stories themselves. The uncertainty weighed heavily on him, but one thing was clear - he needed to uncover the truth behind this unsettling feeling, whatever it might be.

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Promise me you'll enjoy the rest of your party, Danny said earnestly, placing a hand on Andrew's shoulder.

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I promise, Andrew replied softly, forcing a smile for his friend. But as he watched the room buzz with chatter and laughter, that mysterious energy continued to gnaw at the edges of his consciousness, refusing to let go. And he knew that until he unraveled its secrets, his own story would remain shrouded in darkness.

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The flickering candles cast dancing shadows on the walls, transforming the room into a mesmerizing dreamscape. Andrew's fingers traced the embossed letters on the cover of his new book, his thoughts drifting far away from the celebration. He felt as if he were teetering on the edge of a precipice, one step away from plunging into the unknown.

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Andrew! came a high-pitched voice, yanking him back to reality. Startled, he looked down to find his younger cousin, Lily, tugging at his sleeve. Her cheeks were flushed with excitement, and her wide blue eyes sparkled with anticipation. Can I have a piece of your cake now?

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Of course, you can, Andrew chuckled, momentarily forgetting the unsettling energy that had been gnawing at him. The sight of Lily's eager grin was contagious, and he couldn't help but smile as he ruffled her golden curls playfully. Let's cut it together.

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Yay! Lily squealed, bouncing up and down as Andrew grasped the knife firmly in one hand and steadied the cake with the other. With a smooth, decisive motion, he sliced through the rich chocolate layers, revealing a hidden cascade of colorful sprinkles within.

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Wow! Lily gasped, her eyes widening with delight. It's like a magic cake!

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Magic indeed, Andrew mused, handing her the first slice. As she happily nibbled on her treat, he felt a fleeting moment of contentment. This was what mattered - the love and laughter filling the room, the joyous smiles on the faces of his friends and family.

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Thanks, Andrew! Lily beamed, her mouth smeared with chocolate frosting. This is the best cake ever!

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Thank you, Lil, he replied, his heart warmed by her exuberance. I'm glad you like it.

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As the party resumed, the sound of animated conversations and peals of laughter filled the air. For a moment, he was able to push aside his lingering unease and immerse himself in the happiness that surrounded him. But deep within the recesses of his mind, the mysterious energy lay dormant, waiting to be unleashed once more.

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Andrew, Danny called out, raising his glass in a toast. To many more years of friendship and adventure!

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Cheers! the guests chorused, clinking their glasses together.

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Cheers, Andrew echoed softly, his eyes meeting Danny's. They shared a knowing smile, their unspoken bond stronger than ever. He was grateful for his friend's unwavering support, especially now as he stood on the brink of an unimaginable journey.

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Promise me you'll enjoy the rest of your party, Danny whispered, leaning in closer.

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I promise, Andrew replied, his resolve strengthened by the love and laughter surrounding him. Tonight, I won't let anything hold me back.

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As the last echoes of laughter faded into the room's joyful atmosphere, Catherine approached Andrew, her blue eyes shimmering with love and pride. She gently placed a hand on his shoulder, drawing him closer.

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Andrew, she whispered, her voice barely audible above the hum of the party, I have a special surprise for you after everyone leaves.

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His mother's words stirred a mix of emotions within him – excitement, curiosity, but also a hint of unease. It was as if some unseen force hovered at the edge of his consciousness, casting a shadow over the otherwise happy occasion.

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What is it, Mom? he asked, attempting to keep his voice steady. His imagination, always prone to wandering, began conjuring all sorts of possibilities.

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Catherine smiled enigmatically. You'll see soon enough, sweetheart. Just enjoy your party for now.

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As she mingled back into the crowd of well-wishers, Andrew tried to shake off his lingering apprehension. He focused on the sea of smiling faces surrounding him, the warmth of their affection enfolding him like a protective embrace.

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Hey, Andrew! called out one of his friends, beckoning him over to join in a lively conversation about their latest school escapades.

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Coming! he replied, forcing a smile onto his face. He willed himself to focus on the present moment, determined to push aside his uncertainty and fully savor the joy of his birthday celebration.

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But as the night wore on, the mysterious energy continued to gnaw at the edges of his mind, a silent reminder that something awaited him beyond the happiness of the evening – a surprise that would ultimately propel him into a nightmarish journey he could never have foreseen.

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The warm glow of the fireplace flickered across the room, casting a golden hue over the sea of familiar faces. Laughter bubbled through the air as friends and family shared anecdotes, their voices weaving together to form a tapestry of memories and moments.

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Remember when Andrew tripped on his shoelaces and spilled orange juice all over Principal Thompson? Danny asked, punctuating the story with a hearty laugh that was infectious.

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Hey! Andrew protested, feigning indignation but unable to suppress the grin tugging at the corner of his lips. I was seven, and I swear those laces were out to get me!

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Sure, buddy, Danny chuckled, clapping Andrew on the back. Keep telling yourself that.

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Andrew's gaze swept across the room once more, taking in the animated conversations and laughter-filled reunions. Though he tried to immerse himself in the festivities, the mysterious energy from before still tingled at the back of his mind, an itch he couldn't quite scratch.

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As if sensing his unease, Danny leaned in closer. You alright, man? You seem...distracted.

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Mom promised me a surprise after the party, Andrew confided in a low voice. I can't help but wonder what it is. I just have this strange feeling about tonight.

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Knowing your mom, it's probably something amazing, Danny reassured him, his eyes shining with excitement. But don't worry too much about it now. Just enjoy the moment, okay?

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Thanks, Danny, Andrew said, grateful for his friend's unwavering support. Their bond had always been strong, forged in countless sleepovers, shared secrets, and long afternoons spent exploring their sleepy town. In that instant, Andrew felt a renewed sense of gratitude for having Danny by his side, even as the unknown awaited them both.

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Come on, Danny urged, pulling Andrew towards another group of friends. Let's celebrate your birthday like there's no tomorrow.

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Alright, alright, Andrew relented with a smile, allowing himself to be swept up in the current of conversation and laughter.

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For a time, he managed to put aside his lingering unease, finding solace in the warm embrace of friendship and family that filled the room. But as the hours ticked by, that mysterious energy continued to gnaw at the edges of his consciousness, a whisper of things to come - a harbinger of the nightmarish journey that lay just beyond the horizon.

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The flickering candlelight cast eerie shadows on the walls, their shapes shifting and dancing as if alive. Andrew looked at the faces surrounding him, their expressions expectant and eager. Amidst the chatter of friends and family, Catherine's voice pierced through the noise like a beacon.

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Alright, everyone! she announced with an air of authority, her blue eyes sparkling. It's time for Andrew to make a wish and blow out his candles!

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As if on cue, the room fell silent. The anticipation was palpable, and Andrew could feel the weight of all eyes upon him. He closed his own eyes, shutting out the world around him. For a moment, he was alone with his thoughts, contemplating the life he wished for - a life filled with adventure, mystery, and heart-stopping suspense.

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Make it a good one, kiddo, Danny whispered, giving Andrew's shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

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Andrew nodded, feeling the warmth of his friend's presence beside him. In this sanctuary of stillness, he allowed himself to be carried away by his dreams, his imagination painting vivid pictures behind his closed eyelids.

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Okay, Andrew, you got this, Catherine murmured softly, her words echoing in his mind like a distant memory.

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With a deep breath, Andrew gathered his courage and exhaled, releasing his wish into the universe. The candles flickered and died, leaving tendrils of smoke to weave their way through the air. For a heartbeat, the room remained hushed, poised on the edge of something monumental.

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Yay! Lily's excited squeal broke the silence, and the room erupted in applause and cheers.

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Happy birthday, Andrew! his mother beamed, wrapping her arms around him in a warm embrace.

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Thanks, Mom, he said, relishing the comfort of her hug.

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Good job, buddy, Danny grinned, clapping him on the back. I can tell it was a great wish.

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Only time will tell, Andrew replied, his voice laced with the lingering wonder and uncertainty of his thoughts. Little did he know that his wish would soon propel him into a world far beyond his wildest dreams - a nightmarish journey filled with horror, suspense, and secrets waiting to be uncovered.

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Andrew's eyes fluttered open, the applause and cheers of his loved ones washing over him like a warm embrace. His heart raced in anticipation, a mixture of excitement and unease churning within him as he recalled his mother's whispered promise of a surprise.

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Alright, everyone! Catherine announced, clapping her hands together to gather their attention. It's time for Andrew's special surprise. She grinned at her son, her eyes alight with a mischievous sparkle that made him all the more curious.

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Mom, what is it? Andrew asked, his voice awash with eagerness and uncertainty.

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Ah, ah, no spoilers, she playfully scolded, wagging a finger at him. You'll find out soon enough.

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Come on, Mrs. Jameson, give us a hint! Danny urged, bouncing on the balls of his feet.

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Alright, Catherine relented, her grin widening. Just one hint: It's something that will take Andrew on an unforgettable adventure.

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Andrew exchanged a glance with Danny, letting his imagination run wild at the possibilities. His mother had always been one to indulge his love for horror and suspense, so there was no telling what she had planned. A haunted house tour? A mystery weekend getaway? The anticipation gnawed at him, making it impossible to keep still.

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Okay, let's wrap up the party first, Catherine said, her voice soft but firm as she began steering guests toward the door. Thank you all for coming and celebrating with us.

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See you later, buddy, Danny murmured, giving Andrew a quick, supportive squeeze on the shoulder before joining the departing crowd.

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Bye, Danny, Andrew replied, watching as his best friend disappeared into the night. He knew that whatever lay ahead, having Danny by his side, would make it all the more bearable.

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As the last guest left, Andrew turned to his mother, the weight of expectancy heavy in the air. So, he began, hesitant to voice the question that had been burning on his tongue all evening. What's the surprise?

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Alright, Catherine said, drawing a deep breath as if she were preparing to reveal the secrets of the universe. Go to your room and close your door. Whatever you do, don't open it until I tell you.

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Mom, what—

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Trust me, just do it, she interrupted gently, her gaze unwavering.

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Andrew hesitated for a moment more before nodding; his curiosity piqued beyond measure. As he climbed the stairs to his room, his thoughts raced, trying to piece together the puzzle. What could be so important that he had to sequester himself away? His heart pounded in his chest, the unknown both thrilling and terrifying him in equal measure.

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Okay, Mom, he called out as he closed the door behind him, the soft click of the latch echoing through the empty room. I'm ready.

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Wait for it, came her muffled reply, followed by a silence so thick it felt like