The antique shop was a treasure trove of forgotten stories and hidden charms. Dust motes danced in the sunlight that streamed through the grimy windows, illuminating the glass cases filled with vintage jewelry; I was on a mission.

"Looking for something special?" Mrs. Maude asked inquisitively, already knowing the answer. Mrs. Maude was an old widow who had a keen eye for fashion and sometimes it seemed she could read minds. She was a queer bird indeed, but very helpful if you needed to do some last-minute birthday shopping.
"Something for Émilie," I told her. She brought out a delicate gold chain from her pocket with a tiny strawberry dangling from it. "It's beautiful," I told her enthusiastically. "Émilie will just adore it! She loves strawberries! Oh, thank you, Mrs. Maude! How much for it?" I asked, praying it wasn't too much, as I only had 7 Kimbles with me. "Take it," She said with a wink as she skipped off to her next customer. "Thanks again!" I called as I dashed out the door. I can't be late!

--------------
"ÉMILIE! Happy birthday!" I
exclaimed with a bright smile as I hugged her tightly. "Ca-," She said breathlessly. I released her from the suffocating hug. "Can't- breathe, Anya." She finished and took a deep breath, smiling at me. "Guess what I got you," I told her, my anxiety growing as I waited to show her her present with anticipation.
"What?"
"Guess." I prompted
"An elephant. Give it to me already! You know I detest surprises!"
"Okay okay! Here." I said, presenting her with the small tattered gift box I found in my closet.
Émilie took the box in her hands and opened it swiftly. "Oh Anya, it's beautiful! Thank you." She smiled and lifted it out of the box to put it on.
"I knew you would love it." A satisfactory grin replaced my anxious expression.

After what felt like an eternity of dancing, face painting, party games, and socializing, it was time for cake. Her mother, Margaret, brought out a neat little cake with cream cheese icing and strawberries around the bottom; Émilie's favorite.

"In the glow of sixteen candles bright,
Émilie, your future shines tonight.
With every wish and every cheer,
The journey of adulthood starts this year.

Oh, Émilie, it's time to soar,
With dreams unfolding and adventures in store.
In two weeks, a magic so divine,
Your Soulstone awaits a love that will shine.

As you step into this brand-new phase,
May joy and wonder light your days.
The world's your canvas, paint it bold,
With heart and spirit, let your story unfold.

Oh, Émilie, it's time to soar,
With dreams unfolding and adventures in store.
In two weeks, a magic so divine,
Your Soulstone awaits a love that will shine.

Guided by starlight, you'll find your way,
Through laughter and love, come what may.
The journey ahead is yours to create,
Embrace every moment, it's never too late.

Oh, Émilie, it's time to soar,
With dreams unfolding and adventures in store.
In two weeks, a magic so divine,
Your Soulstone awaits a love that will shine.
So here's to you on your special day,
Embrace the magic, and let your heart lead the way.
Happy birthday, Émilie, may dreams take flight,
With your childhood behind you, it all starts tonight!"

We all sang 'The Next Chapter' song, as is customary in all of Oak Grove. Her father lit the sixteen perfectly placed candles for her to blow out.
"You're sixteen now," I whispered to her. "Can you believe the ceremony I in 2 weeks?" I wondered aloud. "No." She turned to me and grinned. "Do you think it works? I'm so worried that maybe I don't have a soulmate, or maybe my soulmate won't like me, or maybe my soulmate wants more kids than I can give him, or-" She put a finger to my lips and said. "Shh, don't worry about all that just yet Anya. The ceremony isn't for 2 weeks, and I'm sure your soulmate is just as anxious about meeting you." Émilie reassured me. "Thanks, Ém, I might worry myself to death without you around."
"I know." She said, a joking look in her chocolate brown eyes.