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The Pizzaplex’s Atrium was decorated with a horde of balloons canopying the ceiling, as the room’s wave of lights shone like lasers, piercing darkness midair. The floors were coated in confetti, upbeat music playing in the background. Vanessa strolled through the center holding a parcel in her hands, looking for the nearest route to the party room.
She passed a few mop bots cleaning outside the Atrium. Holograms of the star animatronics formed into shape on the show stage, as Vanessa exited the room. As she entered the lobby, her eyes gazed at how empty the place was, just like she had planned. Tonight was a special night. It had to be perfect.
Vanessa looked at her watch with concern, reminding herself that she was early. The party room’s door handle was soon in her reach. Shrugging off any hints of waiting, she entered, noticing a young boy in a party hat.
He was playing on his Fazwatch, too busy to notice Vanessa coming in. Typical. Vanessa smiled, thinking of something quick to say, as the young boy’s eyes narrowed on his watch’s screen. Vanessa took a deep breath and proceeded.
“Happy Birthday Gregory!” Vanessa put on the biggest smile you could ever see. This strength of joy captured Gregory the instant her voice reached his ears. He jolted up, half surprised and yet a smile broke on his face.
“Vanessa! You came!” The young birthday kid ran over and hugged Vanessa tightly, clearly happy to see her. Vanessa handed him the parcel after he finally let go. Gregory placed his present on the table, right next to the cake. Vanessa’s hand flew to her back pocket, remembering her cue.
Gregory planted ten candles into his delicious cake. The frosting cream thickness rests on the chocolate layers of goodness. Vanessa noticed two cherries plucked and placed beside the cake’s plate. Oh right, he hated those. Vanessa laughed in her head, finding this amusing.
But nothing could take her attention away by how overjoyed and excited Gregory was feeling. His eyes flexed on Vanessa with a mirroring smile. Vanessa was living in her moment. Gregory had trusted her after all that had happened, and now she was here, on his most important day.
She flicked her lighter on, and set the candles alight. The candles calmly spread into sparks.
“Whoa….” Gregory’s jaw dropped. He had been quite the brains with tech, but this was new to him. He had seen tons of kids get their birthdays celebrated like this, but these candles were something that felt fresh, perfect for his big day.
Vanessa lowered the lights of the room by placing her finger on a switch panel until the area was dark enough for the candles to appear like small fireworks. The blue and green neon lighting still showed, but it would have to do. Vanessa looked at the boy with caring eyes, and she started to sing Happy Birthday. Such a simple song that everyone knew by instinct, and yet, she could tell Gregory really treasured this moment. It had been so long, if not forever, since he last remembered a similar event such as this.
As Vanessa finished singing, she noticed the young boy giving her the same meaningful look when he watched the animatronics performing on stage. You did it! You’re his star! Vanessa cheered in her head.
“Make a wish, my little knight” Vanessa said tenderly, her voice reaching into the boy’s heart.
Gregory stared at the candles happily. I wonder, new fazwatch? An arcade machine? Butters? Vanessa giggled in her mind as she wondered where she got that last thought from. Gregory proceeded to say his wish.
“I wish…” Gregory’s pursed lips neared the candles as his eyes closed. “That this party would last forever.”
He blew the candles, Vanessa completely moved by his birthday wish. The room was now darkened. But Vanessa could still see the cake and the knife. She carefully reached for the knife and walked to the light's control switch. She flickered the brightness back on, but as she did, she felt an anchor’s weight in her head.
She could feel her head bent forward in a split second. As if something had snapped within.
“Mom, are you ok?” Greg had noticed something was off.
Vanessa pulled herself together, trying to forget the surge of what she just felt. Somehow Gregory’s words were trying to stay as the only reasoning on her mind. She slowly turned around. Gregory’s smile had been replaced by a curious, concerned expression. Vanessa sighed in relief, it was probably nothing. She took one step to the table. Her foot caused a split second blackout as it hit the floor. The lights went back on instantly. Vanessa nervously froze, slowly looking around. She could have sworn she saw it happen. Gregory didn’t seem to notice. The kid’s eyes fixated on Vanessa.
Come on, just cut the cake. Don’t mess this up! Vanessa blinked in her thoughts. She took another step. Nothing happened. She took two more steps. Still nothing.
“Is everything ok?” Gregory started to look worried.
Great, now look at what you did. Vanessa thought to herself as she made it to the table to continue the party. “Yes Gregory, nothing could be better.”
As she held the knife just over the cake, she caught the glance of herself in the mirror wall of the party room. Everything looked normal. Gregory was still waiting for her to slice the cake.
“Here goes,” Vanessa resumed her joyful smile.
“Wait,” Gregory paused. Vanessa stood still. The birthday kid smirked and moved her knife over to where the cake had the most cream. “That’s better,” he grinned, licking his lips with delight.
XXX
Vanessa giggled. She sunk the knife deep into the cake. A wave of shock struck her head, as she stepped back in a rapid jolt. The feeling was so sudden, she nearly had struck herself with the knife. Her fingers were clutching on the knife as though her life depended on it. Her nerves clicked at the sudden emotional surge. Vanessa swore she could hear screaming in her head. A loud, sharp, piercing scream. Her hands held to the sides of her head as she tried to bear with the noise, the knife dangerously close to her cheek.
The screaming stopped. Vanessa flinched and shivered. What is going on?! Her nose caught the scent of a strong odor. Wait is that- The strong stench of blood was present. Vanessa noticed the knife she held had vanished from her grasp. Her fingers were drenched in what could only be fresh blood. Her uniform was also stained with crimson splats. Vanessa was horrified at the sudden change of the room. The balloons popped, the floors trashed, and the table was making her vision blur. The cake stood on the table perfectly, the knife already buried in. But wait, what was that red liquid dripping from the utensil’s handle?
Vanessa touched the handle, the same horrible smell reaching her nose again. The cake started to shift and warp. The illusion continued to unfold, as Vanessa gazed in fear. She was too afraid to blink or scream. The warping of the cake vanished. The delightful treat had been warped out of existence, with the real result now in view. The knife was still plunged in something. A child’s lifeless body!
Nothing prepared Vanessa for this sight. She let out a terrified scream, seeing Gregory face-planted on the table, blood leaking into a pool below. His party hat was still intact with the knife buried deep into his back.
A whisper among the scene grew into an evil undertone of a familiar voice. Vanessa could feel it crawling into her ears.
“Now his happy day can be forever——“ the voice of Vanny mocked her. “You did excellent!” Vanny said, her voice curling into a glitchy roar.
XXX
————————————————————-/
Vanessa shot straight out of bed, her eyes widened as she gasped. The view of everything she saw faded. The Pizzaplex, the blood, Gregory. All faded away in a flash of a second. She felt like she had been snatched from an awful reality and tossed back into her home. The screams were replaced by the cries of her alarm tab ringing.
Beep! Beep! Beep! Beep! 6AM
Vaness dropped her heavy hand on the snooze option. She leaned back on her pillow and sighed. Her eyelids caved in, trying to relax her mind with blindness. Her hand rested on her forehead, as she slowly turned to face her alarm clock. She caught the blurry sight of a photo frame next to it. Vanessa yawned as her breathing resumed to normal. The picture grew sharper and clearer to make out. Vanessa paused, noticing it showed Gregory and her playing at an ice cream shack.
Vanessa let out a tired sigh of relief. “Just a dream…” She gazed at her blank white ceiling. It was time to start the day.
She slowly got up and went to the bathroom sink. The water tap ran as she lazily brushed her teeth, giving her reflection the rather bored stare. The mirror stared back as expected. Vanessa took a gulp from her rinse glass and spat into the sink. With a soft yawn, she stretched her hands in the air and walked slowly as if she was carrying a bag of bricks.
She reached the kitchen and turned on the stove. She got out two bowls, poured some cereal. Vanessa propped open the fridge door, sounding a clink of glass as it shook the whole containment. Her hands grabbed a few eggs, some bacon, and a jug of cold milk. Her head turned to see Gregory’s room door still closed. The dining table was littered with crayon drawings. Vanessa remembered last night that she and Gregory had played Pictionary. He eventually fell asleep and Vanessa had to be the one to carry him and place him in bed.
The popping sound of fried eggs threw Vanessa out of her thoughts, making her focus more on cooking rather than her daydreams. She quickly packed his lunch with a tupperware box, before wrapping it in a paper bag. Gregory was asleep longer than usual. Vanessa turned off the stove and walked back to her room to check the time. Hopefully she wouldn’t have to wake him up herself.
6:39pm. It read. I’ll give him five minutes. She told herself. Vanessa scrolled through her phone as she returned to the kitchen. She checked her messages. Nothing from Luis yet. You talked to him last evening, give him a break girl. She chuckled to herself, texting a “good morning”. Vanessa moved on to her phone’s calendar. There was a notice showing up.
Vanessa smiled as she checked it. “Oh! Gregory’s birthday is in a week” she told herself. She tipped the jug of milk into the two bowls. They grow up so fast. It felt like it was only days since she had taken the responsibility as his legal guard-
“Wait a minute…” Vanessa then came to a conclusion with her thoughts. Her arm felt stuck like stone, still pouring the milk. Gregory’s birthday is in a week! She checked her phone again. The calendar wasn’t lying. It really was a week! Oh no! I haven’t gotten him a gift! Vanessa’s eyes fell on her hand’s posture. She quickly lifted up the jug, the cereal bowl nearly overflowing with milk.
She felt the urge to double check her wardrobe, despite already knowing there was nothing in it for Gregory. Her instincts had simply taken over in response to the panic consuming her excitement. Gregory’s door flew open. Vanessa’s foot tripped at this instant, catching herself before she could fall by the kitchen counter.
“Good morning,” Gregory looked at her tiredly. Already dressed in his uniform, Gregory walked to the kitchen table, completely oblivious to Vanessa’s stammered position. Thinking fast, Vanessa slid the bowl closer to Gregory. “I made you breakfast.”
Instead, the young boy took the bowl that had less milk. Vanessa didn’t blame him. FazCrunch cereal always tasted better the more dry it was, at least that’s what Greg said. “Thanks mom,” Gregory chimed. He was starting to notice something about Vanessa. She looked like she was thinking hard. Gregory ate a spoonful of cereal before he spotted her holding her phone.
“Don’t tell me,” he guessed, munching his cereal. “You’re nervous because Luis hasn’t replied yet.”
"Uh…yeah…” Vanessa pulled herself together. It was part of the reason, though it wasn't completely right.
“Mom?” Gregory called out. Vanessa clicked back out of her thoughts. She really needed to stop doing that. “Yes yes, it’s hard to text him sometimes.” She sighed, continuing off topic. “Like, it feels like forever when he doesn’t text back.”
Gregory laughed as he shook his head. “He’ll reply I’m sure,” The kid finished his cereal. What was it with lovers always being so nervous around each other? Gregory just didn’t get it. Why be so afraid to even text if you already are close to that person?
Vanessa could hear the bus arriving outside. Before she could say a word, Gregory had already grabbed his backpack and tied his shoelaces. He was outside in seconds. Vanessa suddenly darted after him, he had forgotten his packed lunch.
Outside, Vanessa called out. “Wait Gregory! You forgot your lunch!” The bright yellow school vehicle had halted with an air’s hiss.
The bus doors swung open, Gregory had just enough time to look back and see Vanessa unzip his backpack and place his lunch inside.
“Almost forgot your lunch, sweetie,” Vanessa reassured as she zipped the bag up. A few kids on the bus planted their faces at the windows, amused at Gregory.
“Mom, you’re embarrassing me…” Gregory’s face turned a tint reddish. She definitely wasn’t gonna hug him now, she knew better than to do that in front of his friends.
“Have a great day at school Greg,” Vanessa gave him a rather awkward pat on the shoulder, trying not to shoot the kids on the bus a serious stare. Gregory returned her smile and waved goodbye as he boarded the bus.
The vehicle started to move as the doors closed. As the bus drove into the distance, Vanessa stood by the porch and waved. She was left to watch Gregory drift further and further away, until she couldn’t see him. Gregory was her son by heart. I need to get him a present. He’s counting on me. This will be the best birthday ever! Vanessa vowed in her warm heart.
A quick buzz in her hand drew her eyes back to her phone. A text reply from Luis had arrived at last. Her face beamed brightly. She tapped on her phone as she made her way back inside, excited and nervous as ever. For Gregory and Luis. This week was gonna be fun, she hoped.
——————————————————-
Vanessa sat on the couch with a clouded head. Her thumbs tapped a reply to Luis as she went on her usual routine of asking how he was. The replies she received were taking awhile, Luis was working on something at this time.
As she waited, her eyes dipped down, thinking what she could get him. It had to be special. It had to be something she hadn’t already given him. But what could that be?
The ideas that would usually pool out in Vanessa’s head had turned into a blank canvas. No matter how hard she thought, she wasn’t getting anywhere besides the casual gifts that anyone would get as a regular treat. Gregory’s birthday was more than that to her. He deserved the best, and only the best.
Her eyes fell on the crayon drawings Gregory had left behind again. This time she picked one of them up and inspected it closely. She felt like she was running around a maze with no prize. She needed a lead. A clue. Something that would point the way to help her decide.
The drawing was mainly scribbles adding up to the overall abstracted picture: A giant spaghetti of wires and metal having the head of a metalic bear fighting a space cadet. The next drawing showed him and Freddy on what appeared to be a rocket-shaped coaster. Vanessa looked in awe at the boy’s creativity. She took the next drawing, halting in her search. This last drawing had herself in it! She recognised the blonde hair and security uniform she wore. She was embracing Gregory in the drawing.
“Oh my…” Vanessa felt the warmth in her heart. She felt so touched by how Gregory saw her. She was his mom, sure. But this said it all the more with a deeper meaning. These drawings were a part of his life. And Gregory had placed her in it. Vanessa got up and folded the drawing. Somehow she felt she would need it to find the perfect present.
The door to Gregory’s room was wide open. She calmly walked inside, seeing the child’s decorative room. Most of the things here were space themed. Glowing stars on the walls, a rocket shaped bed, alien figures and space toy guns. There were also a ton of plushies from the Pizzaplex. Expired coupons, drawing notepads, Faz action figurines. “So he likes space and adventure,” Vanessa noted.
She finally caught the Pizzaplex poster hanging behind the door. Glamrock Freddy was shown handing out balloons and presents. This sparked an idea. The animatronics had spent around enough time with Gregory as she did. He visited them three times a week to hangout while she worked. They may have an idea of what to get him right?
She sat back on her couch and flipped her phone to the side. She was gonna do a video call. She had contacts with each of the animatronics personally. They all had devices in their personal rooms. She scrolled through her list of options. She tried reaching Glamrock Freddy. If anyone knew Gregory like the back of their hand, it was Freddy.
The call rang repeatedly. There was no answer. “Freddy must be on his routine shift,” Vanessa reasoned. She tried asking someone else. The screen flashed a green loading screen. Her call was answered. She heard a noise of wreckage as the screen came to show an alligator’s jaw with a smug voice answering. “Yo, wassup?” Monty answered, his claws pulling down his shades as he focussed on Vanessa.
“Hello Monty, “ Vanessa replied. “I was just checking to see if you had planned anything special for the weekend.”
“Heh, ain’t much going on for this punk,” Monty flexed his biceps, showing off his strength. His fists clenched with spiked knuckles.
Monty’s head turned around to peak as if he was making sure he was alone in the room. Vanessa looked in confusion. “Except for that lil guy’s birthday.” He muttered quietly.
“You knew?” Vanessa chirped, keeping her voice low as his. Monty rolled his eyes. “Of course, that lil guy had to enter his details to get the VIP Pass here in the Pizzaplex. Unfortunately, the others picked up on this too. It was my idea to get him a gift,” Monty bragged about his knowledge.
“Roxanne thinks she can get him a cooler gift than me,” He gritted his teeth, and laughed out loud. “She’s gonna lose big time!”
Monty flexed his muscles and grabbed a large present from off screen, placing it down for Vanessa to see. “Nothin gonna beat this!” He huffed, whatever that thing was, it made him exhaust his joints just to bring it into view. “A chainsaw always crashes down the party,” He bragged again.
Vanessa’s eyes widened. “A chainsaw?!”
Monty suddenly gulped, remembering who he was talking to. His tough voice now replaced with a defensive tone. Vanessa frowned. “It’s not what you think, I mean uh,” Monty grudged as he scratched his chin.
“He’s just a kid Monty!” Vanessa told with a worried voice, her face painted with concern.
“I know, I know,” Monty heaved his hands as he backed off. “I was just kidding,” he chuckled. “Like I would actually give him something twice his weight,” Monty’s tail jumped up and down, landing on the package. The hardware machine inside turned on and shredded the wrapping to bits. The chain saw halted with a sharp jolt as it dug into his tail.
“Whoops,” Monty’s glasses swapped up as Vanessa raised an eyebrow. “Hehe new plan.”
“Nothing sharp alright?” Vanessa frowned.
“You’re no fun,” Monty joked while giving her a rock and roll pose with his fingers. “But alright. I’m still gonna beat Roxanne anyways!” Monty roared in confidence.
“I heard that!” Yelled a female groan from outside Monty’s room.
Monty gulped again. “Gotta go bye!” He punched the end call button literally, and his voice disconnected. Vanessa was left at a static screen. She sighed and tried to dial Freddy again. But there was still no answer, much to her avail. She dialed the next contact on her list.
Her call was answered. “Oh hey Vanessa,” A wolf in a red crop top appeared on-screen, folding her arms and smirking. “Finally figured out it was your boy’s birthday?”
Vanessa nodded, feeling a little heavy. “I just can’t believe I didn’t notice until today. Would you be able to help suggest a gift I could get Gregory?”
Roxanne peeked at the cam, reading Vanessa’s face. She tapped her curled claws and pulled out a wrapped red gift. “I’ve hosted many VIP birthdays before, and all presents share one thing in common.”
Vanessa was about to ask before Roxanne continued. “They all have to be something the child can relate to. Something familiar but also something new. But the best presents always mean something special to both the giver and the receiver.”
“But-“ Vanessa was about to ask. Roxanne smirked. “If I told you exactly what gift you should get him, then it wouldn’t be “your” gift to him.”
“I guess you’re right…” Vanessa admitted, not feeling any better.
“You’ll figure it out I’m sure,” Roxanne smiled, hoping to see Vanessa’s face brighten. “Thanks Roxanne,” She replied.
“As for Monty, well-,” Roxanne placed her red present aside, and sprayed perfume on it to give an extra scent. “He's gonna lose ha!”
Roxanne placed her hands on the sides of hips and threw her hair back in the pose, saying her iconic line. “I’m the best!”
“Tell me that when you eat hot peppers when I win!” Monty yelled from afar.
“Shut up Monty!” Roxanne barked in a growl. Vanessa was confused but laughed a bit, it was just that amusing. She said bye to Roxanne and ended the call.
Freddy still wasn’t picking up. “Leave a message Superstar.” Vanessa looked blankly at her phone. Glamrock Chica’s name appeared as the final option. Vanessa was in such a mood she completely forgot about the animatronic that had the best ties with her. She dialed without another thought.
Glamrock Chica’s room was littered. Empty pizza boxes everywhere. Torn parcel wraps, popped balloons, splats of cheese stained the floor. It looked like the leftovers of 30 birthday parties. Vanessa heard a cluck, Chica’s head coming into view. She squawked as she was trying to stuff something inside a box. “Pizza!” She yelled.
“Um hey Chica?” Vanessa cracked a smile and waved. Glamrock Chica cocked her head, before springing up out of her squat.
“Vanessa! Hi bestie!!” Chica left behind whatever she was doing and raced to the front screen. “Sorry I didn’t notice you earlier. I was erm…busy,” Chica chuckled, wiping off her littered beak as she did a peace sign with her fingers.
“I just wanted to check if you could help me with something. You see, it’s Gregory’s birthday and-“ Chica cut her off. “You forgot?!”
Vanessa winced but nodded. Chica shook her head. “Haven’t you learned anything from the times we hung out?”
“Always eat pizza?” Vanessa quoted. Glamrock Chica shot back an annoyed yet admitting look. “Aside from that,” Chica chuckled, folding her arms. “I may not be the brightest, but I always remember the birthdays of everyone that’s close to me.”
Just then, a staff bot came in, holding a tray of fresh pizza. Chica’s jaw hung as her primitive instincts kicked in. “Pizza!!!!” She yelled, having her arms outstretched with grabby fingers. The staff bot dropped the tray and ran, leaving Chica to get her reward. Her beak pulled the food apart as Vanessa waited the right time to ask. “I still don’t know what to get him…”
“Get him pizza,” chirped Glamrock Chica, biting into her food again. Vanessa raised her eyebrow again, still unable to tell if she was joking after all these months. “You can’t be serious.”
“What?” Chica pecked and wiped her mouth. “No birthday is complete without food! A party needs a cake!”
“A cake?! Oh I didn’t think of that!” Vanessa added that to her list. Everyone was so focused on getting a gift that no one even brought up cake.
“Duh, sometimes I wonder how you got that security guard role,” Chica playfully joked around, tearing open a wrapped box and gobbled whatever was inside.
“Thanks Chica!” Vanessa said, cheering a bit, happy she had a clear goal for one of the things needed for the party.
Chica suddenly gulped, realizing she had cheese all over her beak as she held torn wrappers. “Oh no I did it again,” Chica squawked at herself with laughter.
Vanessa was about to ask what gift she should get. But she paused, perhaps remembering what Roxanne said. This was for her as Gregory’s mom to figure out. It wouldn't be special if Chica just gave her the answer.
The doors burst open, a jolly yet panicked figure stepped in. He wore jester boots, jingly bells, and a gold and red striped outfit. His face resembled the Sun. “Chica there you are!! The main stage is madness! Freddy needs your help to join him on his encore right this instant!” The Daycare Attendant brought the news.
Chica yawned and stuffed her face with another pizza. “Do I really have to?”
“You must hurry! Some of the kids started throwing pizza at-“ Sun the Daycare Attendant tried to explain.
“PIZZA!!!!” Chica flung out the door instantly, completely forgetting about the call and Sun. Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! Those words rung in her head in a loop.
Sun then noticed the room. “Oh no no!” He grabbed a broom and looked around the whole place. “What a mess! Clean up, clean up!”
Vanessa felt like saying hi, as Sun didn’t even notice the call was still streaming her face. But the constant stressed look in Sun’s face just told her now was not the time. She gave a silent wave at Sun, wishing him luck. The call ended.
Ok so we need a birthday cake, but…I still need to think of a gift……
She looked back at her text messages. She had missed a few replies from Luis. He was free now, asking if she wanted to go out somewhere. Vanessa wondered at her phone, but chose that it was now or never. She dialed Luis.
“Yo Ness, how are you?” answered Luis’ gentle tone.
“Luis oh thank God!” Vanessa sighed in relief. “I’m not doing too well. I just realized Gregory’s birthday is in a week. But I haven’t gotten the cake or a gift ready for him. I really need help to pick a present for him…”
“I see, maybe we could go to the mall this afternoon?,” Luis offered, hearing Vanessa’s sensitive voice. She needed him the most right now. How could he refuse? “I could pick you up around your house in half an hour!”
Vanessa felt her heavy breath speak tenderly. She always somehow did that by instinct everytime she felt bad. “That would be nice… but I don’t want to interrupt your plans.” Vanessa expressed her concerns, wanting to make sure she wasn’t bothering him.
“You don't need to worry about interrupting anything, Ness,” Luis confirmed with a caring smirk. “I’m not doing anything, so I'm free all day.” Luis heard Vanessa sigh happily on the other end of the phone. It made him happy whenever he could help his girlfriend. “I’ll be right over there.” Luis said.
——————————————————
Vanessa got what she needed ready, her wallet was packed in her handbag. She banded up her hair in a knot, checking her phone repeatedly. As she was dressed for the mall, topped in a leather jacket, she exited the door. A gust of fresh wind greeted her face. Luis’s car had pulled over by the walkway, sounding a friendly horn.
Vanessa reached her side of the car door and got in. She gave Luis a quick kiss on the cheek before putting on her seatbelt. Luis’ eyes beamed at his girlfriend, thinking just how lucky he was to have her.
“How was work?” Vanessa asked.
“Work was-good,” Luis nearly forgot everything that happened prior. Same response every time she kisses you. Luis’ admitted to himself. Why couldn’t he be more engaging, he wondered sometimes.
“Did you have lunch yet?” Luis continued, noticing there was something about Vanessa’s face that he wasn’t too sure. Her smile felt forced. Just a mask that hid her true emotions. He was on the money about that.
“Oh uh..” Vanessa had no time to think about lunch. She had been so preoccupied, it felt like time was flying faster than she could cooperate. “I had breakfast,” she replied in a folded tone.
“You must be hungry Ness,” Luis looked at her sweetly. Her eyes didn’t seem to hold that sparkle he was familiar with. She looked tired, beat up, thinking so hard on what to do next.
“I’ll be fine,” she said flatly. She was clearly upset about something. Maybe she didn’t get much good sleep? Luis decided to ask.
Touching his foot on the pedal, the car drove off towards the mall. At least he still remembered how to drive, Luis chuckled in his head.
“How was your morning?” He asked.
“Terrible…” Vanessa sunk into her chair.
“That bad, really?” Luis looked at her for a moment as he drove onwards.
“Everyone remembered to get him a gift. Everyone except me….” Vanessa hummed. “Like, I’m supposed to be the one responsible for Gregory. I’m his mom, and yet-“ Vanessa closed her eyes and sighed. “I should have remembered. All this is making me question myself if I’m just not good enough to be his caretaker.” Vanessa felt her eyes water, but she held back the tears.
“Oh Ness….” Luis let the brakes slow down the ride so he could talk to her without much distractions. It was a narrow straight road through the hillside to the mall. It wasn’t too busy on the streets. “It could happen to anyone. The best of us,” Luis tried.
“Even Chica remembered. Chica of all people!” Vanessa commented. This was just a low point that she felt was the deepest she could go.
Luis opened his mouth to object but then closed it, recalling Chica’s primitive mentality . “Ok yeah that’s really bad but ... .you remembered now right? Isn’t this why we are here, driving to the mall? It’s one thing to forget, sure, but you didn’t just give up back then. The instant you found out, what did you do?”
“I…well,” Vanessa thought back to earlier. “I tried finding out what he may like, and I contacted his Glamrock friends for help.”
“That’s already more than determined of you,” Luis complimented. “That shows you want to make sure that Gregory will have a great birthday.”
Vanessa’s face lit up a bit as Luis continued. “And you still are making the effort, we are shopping for his cake and gift.” Luis added hope. “A week is longer than it sounds Ness-“
Luis slowed down the car and reversed parked into a corner. The mall peaked over them like a mountain, bright as glitter, and stairs leading to its wondrous entrance. It wasn’t the Pizzaplex, but it will have to do. Luis placed his hand on Vanessa’s. “And I’ll help you find the perfect gift, whatever it takes.”
Vanessa threw a hug to Luis, embracing him tightly. “Thank you Luis,” she whispered.
The couple got out of the car. Vanessa felt lighter. Talking to Luis in the long run always lifted the anchor off her shoulders. He was a good listener, and Vanessa loved that about him. The mall’s entrance doors spun like a carousel, lights flashing to lure curious eyes to its warm welcome. Any kid would drag their parents to enter such a marvelous location where it seemed it had everything.
“Ready to do some shopping?” Luis spoke in an excited tone, offering Vanessa his hand, as they stepped through the rotating doors.
“Let’s do this.” Vanessa nodded, now feeling confidence quench her dread. She took Luis’ hand and walked with him. I’ll make this the best birthday for you Greg . She promised.
The store was lit and packed with hundreds of people. Kids ran around excitedly, running to the hottest toy displays. Vanessa noticed there were quite a variety of families wherever she looked. It felt warm to see how happy everyone was, if this wasn’t a surprise, she would have brought Gregory too. That’s what Gregory felt like to her, he was part of her family.
Vanessa and Luis stopped by the bakery. The cakes on display made her tummy rumble. So sweet and tasty they looked, she could spend hours imagining herself eating everything.
“Does Gregory have a favorite flavor?” Luis asked.
“Hmm…” Vanessa recalled back as she hummed. She had mostly bought Gregory ice-cream popsicles of either caramel and chocolate. But which one did he say was his favorite?
“Strawberry?” Luis guessed, partly trying to spark something in Vanessa that might help her remember.
“That’s your favorite flavor,” Vanessa teased, nudging Luis with her elbow playfully. He laughed and nodded.
“Ah chocolate,” Vanessa remembered. “He loves chocolate a lot.”
She selected a cake that had suddenly arrived on scene. It was a milk chocolate layered cake with a hardened Freddy head chocolate shell on the top. It still had some decorations to make it suited for a party, but Vanessa felt like this was fate. This was the perfect cake right before her. She noted the additions she wanted.
“Would it be able to fit in your fridge?” Luis raised a question.
“I don’t think so,” Vanessa turned to Luis. “Gregory might also take a peak in the fridge if he gets hungry at night.”
Luis thought about it. “Hey Ness?”
“Ya?” Vanessa wondered what he would suggest next.
“I could take the cake to my house?” Luis offered. “Y’know keep it ready until the big day?”
“Oh Luis, that's a wonderful idea!” Vanessa lit, before she folded her arms playfully. “No sneaking bites from it, k?” She toyed in her cop voice.
“Would I get arrested?” Luis flirted back.
“I’ll shoot you,” Vanessa smirked jokingly.
“No promises,” Luis continued, receiving a sharp glare from his girlfriend. “I mean yes ‘officer’.” He gleefully replied, they both laughed. The cake’s decorations would be ready in half an hour. Vanessa had made sure she picked the extra frosting and lettering on the cake, followed by the spark candles. This left plenty of time to search for his gift.
The two continued deeper into the mall’s wide array of stores. Luis started to see coloured eggs and Lily flowers scaling the walls and floors of scenery. Kids were getting their faces painted, wearing bunny headbands and shaking egg-shaped maracas.
“I didn’t even know Easter was around the corner,” Luis commented.
Vanessa looked where he was looking. The theme really stuck to her mind. Easter was just days away. This mall was prepped up ahead of schedule, not wanting to miss out on the Easter Spirit. Vanessa was mixed in this instance, she felt joyed to see everyone having a good time, but there was uncertainty she felt within. Unease. But why?
“I never asked much about how things are between you and Gregory,” came Luis' voice. “How would you say you both get with each other? He’s not a handful right?”
“Well,” Vanessa thought back and smiled. “He’s the sweetest boy. He’s so smart too. Always planning his weekend. Gregory often draws me in his cute art pictures with Glamrock Freddy.”
“Aw that’s nice. So he’s used to you being his parent?” Luis implied.
“You could say that. He also dreams of joining me at work. Gregory wants to be just like me. He loves tech and games, so it’s not surprising why he admires my work as a fun job.” Vanessa flashed back.
“He sounds like he’ll have fun beta testing like you. Silver Parasol could always have talented gamers like him around,” Luis pointed out, putting his arm around Vanessa.
She leaned on his shoulder. “I wished they’d let us work the same work shifts…”
“Aw Ness, I wish that too,” Luis tried to think what it could be like. “We both would distract each other though,” He grinned sarcastically.
“Shut up,” Vanessa giggled, giving a friendly punch to Luis’ arm.
“Ow! Ness-“ Luis frowned tightly.
“Oh sorry! I didn’t mean-“ Vanessa swore she didn’t throw a hard punch. Luis was hurt?! How could she? Her terrified shock was suddenly cut off by Luis laughing at her. “Gotcha!” he said. Vanessa flushed her cheeks red at his antics.
“Luis, don't scare me like that!” She punched his shoulder again, harder this time. Luis shuffled and rubbed his arm. “Ok that one hurt a lil,” he chuckled. She rolled her eyes. “But would it really be good if he joined us at work when he grows up?”
“You said it yourself right? He’s good at games and enjoys it. Being good at something and loving it as your life makes it the dream job,” Luis paraphrased.
“It’s just, well,” Vanessa held her hands behind her back as she stretched, she often did this when she felt stressed about something. “I’m not too keen on letting him tryout for a job there..”
“Oh why not?” Luis asked. “The pay’s good too. The hours eh, manageable.”
“Whenever someone is doing good at their job there, they often get promoted to test the latest games. Gregory might do too well… and it won’t be long before they start to use him to test VR games as part of his work.” Vanessa explained in a voice that was growing softer, her arm holding her opposite elbow.
“What’s wrong with-“ Luis’ cut off his voice before he could finish, noticing Vanessa having herself in a stressful position. “Oh…right… you don’t want him around those types of games do you?”
“No…not after what happened to me,” Vanessa’s tone was hushed but audible enough to nearly sound pitiful. “I haven’t touched a VR game since the day I was freed.”
“What did it feel like…y’know, being controlled and all that?” Luis spoke calmly as he placed his hand on her shoulder, trying to piece together a part of her past that she didn’t talk much about in detail.
“It felt like I was locked in a box. Trapped in a room without a key…a burrow with no light. I felt lost and scared….” Vanessa’s face grew saddened. “I can’t go back to playing VR…I can’t let that happen to me or Gregory.”
Vanessa continued. “Whenever he asks me if he could play a VR game, I tell him no. I feel terrible whenever I do. I mean It’s not like he did anything wrong… ” She turned to Luis, looking him in the eyes. “That’s more to the reason why I have to make it up to him with this birthday present.”
Luis said nothing at first, taking in the amount of emotion Vanessa was putting into her whole plan for Gregory. Dammit Luis, you just had to ask her that…look now she’s clearly upset.. “Gregory is very lucky to have a caring mother like you. Never forget that,” Luis very much wanted to hug Vanessa. But he didn’t know if now was the right time.
“Do you think there could be a gift that Gregory would be happy with that isn’t a VR game?” She sniffed as she singled out those words.
“Hey, don’t give up hope,” Luis spoke in a warm voice. “This mall is huge, we just need to keep looking. Now you said Gregory liked games , right?”
Vanessa nodded. Luis followed up. “Then that’s where we should start searching. It doesn’t have to be a VR game. I just happen to know the best gaming stores around here. The mall doesn’t close until ten.”
Vanessa breathed and nodded again as she lifted her head. “You’re right. There’s still time.”
“More than enough,” Luis offered her his hand again. “We can circle back here to pick up the cake once we buy a gift.”
Vanessa’s face curved into a small smile, taking Luis’ hand.
——————————————————-
The games store had its neon lights on with the stock spread wide across the giant display cases and shelves stored inside. It wasn’t too busy as Luis remembered, but that would just make it easier to find what they were looking for. Whatever it was. Vanessa looked at the store’s name from outside. “This has to be the right place.” She whispered to herself.
“Damn it,” Luis nudged her, getting her attention to a promotion sign. 30% off all products. Final offer before closing today until next month! “Seems today is the last day this store’s gonna be open.”
Vanessa looked at her watch. “They close at 9pm. That leaves us 3 hours. Let’s split up. I’ll search from this aisle. You start searching from that side.” Vanessa pointed towards the opposite end. “We’ll cover more of the store faster this way.”
“On it,” Luis agreed.
Vanessa checked out the console aisle. Loads of controllers hung on display. Some were as old as the retro arcades while others seem to be crafted from a sci-fi world. A mix of old and new devices. This store had everything it seemed. She stepped into the first row that featured playable games. Gregory did have a console at home.
She looked under the Adventure and Space section. Her mind had to work harder to recall what games Gregory already had. He collected so many over the months that she started to worry if she accidentally got something he already had.
Freddy in Space VII, Carnival Quest, Into Madness, Help Wanted 2, Revenge of the Blob.
“He’s beaten all of these games…” Vanessa’s heart sank. There’s nothing new for his favorite theme. But maybe I could search other categories, I mean, he could love something new?
Vanessa strolled past the Space themed shelf, noticing the abundance of games under Fazbear Ent’s name. There were also Silver Parasol brands, but they were the needles in a haystack when it came to attention grabbing to the likes of Fazbear’s.
Vanessa reached the Collectibles category. Not surprisingly, she found that most of them had already been played by Gregory. Vanessa continued walking onwards. There was always something new in the world of gaming. She just needed to look in the right place.
She approached the Latest! aisle. This category was flashy, with marked prices at every turn. This was supposed to be the hottest sales in town, and the store was capitalizing on its promotions. Vanessa’s eyes lit and she smiled widely for the first time in this store. Gregory didn’t own a single game in this whole shelf.
Fnaf World The Return, Fruity Maze 3D, Playhunt, Terisma, Roxy Racers, Pizza Fest, Spend The Night-
Vanessa’s excitement disappeared with a crushing wave of realization. Just as rapidly as her hopes had soared, they plummeted faster than anticipated. All of these games…they were exclusive to the VR platforms…
Vanessa felt acid in her stomach. Why…why did it have to be like this…? Her hand reached out to one of the games, picking it up for a closer look. A fun experience for all families to enjoy! Her eyes folded in despair, remembering all those times she kept Gregory from playing VR. All of this to keep him safe. But who was she really keeping safe with this? Gregory or herself?
Vanessa could feel tears beginning to form from behind her sockets. She put back the game and walked away, wandering into the next category of games. She felt completely distraught.
The Joy of Creation, Cherophobia, Bunny Call360, CASE, Jnr’s, The Hare, Plushtrap Chaser, Eclipse Hunt, Nightmare Circus-
Vanessa blinked. She had wandered into the Horror category. She had never been a fan of it, but she never really feared it. But she couldn’t help but feel that something was making her uneasy. She continued to walk, trying to narrow her vision away from the parting shelves as she strolled. Her sight felt claustrophobic, the appearances of bunny mascot horror themed games coming into view the further down the aisle she walked. It made sense, Easter was only around the corner, so of course they would make horror games based around the holiday…
Vanessa halted in her tracks, some of the covers starting to take the shape of something familiar. Something she had burrowed in long ago. She was hallucinating, feeling ill. She wanted to walk away, but the further she went, the more Easter themed horror she came across. It felt like the eyes of the covers were staring at her. Why was she seeing red eyes?
Vanessa grimaced and sped up to reach the end of this “rabbit hole.” It felt twisted, a shoved reminder of something she wanted to forget. I need to breathe. Vanessa headed for the exit. She needed fresh air.
Vanessa made it out, feeling her vision grow heavy. It was at that moment she saw it.
XXX
Not too far across the lit hall, danced an animal mascot. Its white fluffy ears flopped and flipped as the figure took a bow and skidded to the nearest child. It held a basket of wrapped chocolate eggs, passing over one of the treats to a young boy. Another child noticed the mascot and ran towards it. The bunny suit waved flamboyantly, doing a few bendy movements. The choreography made it seem like the mascot had no bones, fluently synced like water. It handed a young girl another one of its eggs. Vanessa could only stare in horror as she imagined the bunny’s face staring straight back at her.
She was beginning to hallucinate again. Red eyes. Red glowing eyes pierced her heart as though they were daggers. It’s mouth now a toothy grin as it pulled its arm towards its mouth to a shushing gesture. Blood flashes.
Are you having fun yet?!
Vanessa couldn’t take it any longer. The weight of her exploding guilt now made her head feel heavy. A tear snaked down her cheek as she collapsed on the ground. The fall didn’t hurt as much as her thoughts. Her legs felt numb like jelly. She couldn’t muster the strength to help herself.
“Vanessa?” Luis called from afar, noticing her leave as the lobby door closed. Something was not right. She wouldn’t just leave like that.
Luis stacked whatever he had gathered behind and went after her. Hang on Vanessa. Whatever it is, I'm coming! Luis rushed, feeling he had to know what was up. He noticed merely the mascot smiling at him and waving flamboyantly. Oh no…I think I know what might have startled her!
“Vanessa,” Luis assisted his girlfriend by supporting her arm around his neck. “Are you hurt?”
Vanessa remained silent, her face upset and wrecked with tears. A few people were starting to notice both of them on the floor. Luis quickly helped her up. “Vanessa, let's talk somewhere quieter, away from everyone.” Luis whispered.
The pair slowly got up and walked to the lobby doors, leaving the commotion they made a mystery to onlookers.
Luis and Vanessa found a quiet corner by the back stairway. The trail led on to the underground parking lot. Vanessa leaned against the rails as they stopped walking. Luis was more worried as she sobbed, her sleeves soaked with tears. “Vanessa, what’s making you feel like this?” Luis approached, taking out his handkerchief.
Vanessa shook her head and sniffed. Leaning further back with a loose grip on the rails. “It was that mascot wasn’t it,” Luis slowly put his words together. Vanessa responded with a brief nod. Luis had known she was never happy about what she did in the past. But he didn’t realize it broke her this badly. Until now.
As he tried to wipe her cheeks, Vanessa wrapped her arms around him tightly and cried again, Luis could feel his shoulder drenched. Her cheeks, which were usually warm, were just cold. “Vanessa…”
“I’m sorry Luis…” She spoke in a fragile voice. She loosened her hug on him, hearing Luis gasp very quietly in relief. “I just can’t leave it behind…”
“Leave what behind?” Luis placed his hand on her back to comfort her. Vanessa clinged onto his arm. She had a tough grip that felt like iron. Luis simply didn’t back down. Now wasn’t the time for him to act weak. He needed to help her, not make her panic more. He couldn’t imagine what was going through her mind.
Vanessa went back to her mutual silence. “Vanessa, whatever it is that’s hurting you….we can solve it….together…like we always have…”
She continued to remain silent for the time being. It was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Vanessa slowly looked up as the minute went by. “I feel like I shouldn’t involve you in this…” She told Luis blankly, the emptiness in her voice siphoning her dread. She had bottled this feeling up that she could no longer hide it again.
“Everyone is doing perfect without me. I just can’t seem to forget what happened all those months back. I’ve always tried to act like it’s been ok, but nothing really feels like that.” Vanessa sipped in another breath of air as she proceeded. “Thinking about you and Gregory helped me out many times before. But I keep circling back to the past. Our very own relationship somehow keeps making me think about the past.”
Luis held a thought about what she said. Vanessa wasn’t finished just yet. “Gregory was able to move on. He doesn’t see me as the monster I was. Even you didn’t hold on to that fact. But I did. And I feel like I’m holding both of you down from moving forward. It’s all my fault…” Vanessa’s eyes pooled out salty tears.
“But you didn’t kill those kids. It was that glitch. You told me yourself-“ Luis objected.
“I still was the vessel. I’m not a murderer, but that doesn’t mean I deserved what I have right now either. I feel like I don’t fit in, “ Vanessa cried, her blonde hair messed in shambles. “I feel there’s always something wrong with myself. When I was Gregory’s age, I never was brought up in a good family. I never had a proper childhood..and now it’s making me ask myself if I’m always the problem. Everything feels like it’s my fault.”
“But Ness,” Luis comforted, “It was you who started this little family. It was all you. After you were freed, you accepted my idea to get some coffee together, remember?”
“And?” Vanessa sniffed, wondering where Luis was going with this.
“And that only was possible because you said yes. You opened up to me about what happened to you. And then you felt you wanted to make it up to Gregory and adopted him. You, Ness, are the core of this family. You’ll always have a place in our hearts.” Luis spoke warmly. “You don’t have to feel bad about the past…”
“But it’s my past that made me like this…” Vanessa pointed out. “Now I realized why it was so hard for me to pick a gift for Gregory. It wasn’t because I couldn’t find what he wanted. It’s because I knew what he wanted deep down. But I buried that idea because I was afraid. I was afraid of his wish that reminded me of something from my past. I’ve been so selfish…”
“These things take time to heal Ness,” Luis gave her the biggest, warmest hug as he said this. “Tell me, before all this. Before the glitch and fear. What were you like?”
“Well…” Vanessa flashed back, trying to recall further past her dreaded experience. “I was all alone. No one to look after me. I was just out for number one.” The thought of Luis meeting her for the first time came to the picture in her head. “I don’t think I cared much about my colleagues back then…I had nothing to share with”
Vanessa sobbed. “I’m sorry…”
“Ness, don’t you feel like you’ve come a long way? Your past may have not been your proudest pet of your life, but, would you say you’ve changed?”
“I…well..I guess…” Vanessa replied halfheartedly, unsure what he was going to state next.
“You’re a mom to Gregory. Despite the stress the responsibility of his care would bring, you felt like he needed it. You put aside your goals and shared a life with him. And with me…” Luis brought it up. “You gave me a chance and allowed me to be part of your family. And how do we make you feel in return?”
“You make me feel…” Vanessa held her tongue before she spoke. She could only think of one answer. It was so obvious to her, that it came out smoothly. “Happy…you both make me feel happy..”
“And you deserve to be happy.” Luis boldly reminded Vanessa. “There’s nothing to be scared of. I’m here for you in your life. And so will Gregory. No matter how long it takes, we won’t leave you behind. That’s what makes us your family.”
Vanessa shed another tear along her cheek. But this wasn’t a tear of regret or sadness. She could feel that hint of hopeful joy sprout back up from inside. It was like Luis’ words had made her realize the very thing she was missing the whole time. Everyone knew the real her. Her true self would care for her family and would be loved by those she cherished. Somehow Vanessa no longer felt like the threat. Luis made his point clear. None of the good things she had right now would have happened had it not been for her selfless actions. Why be afraid of the past if her future was so much more?
Vanessa looked Luis in the eyes. “Thank you Luis..for reminding me.”
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
The pair had a long evening. Luis and Vanessa were strapped in seat belts as he drove her home. Vanessa held Gregory’s gift in her arms, all nicely wrapped up. The cake was in the back, steadily secured.
I won’t be afraid of the past anymore. Vanessa thought as she stared out the car window. The woodland trees running by as the moon poked its face to join the clouds in the starry sky. Gregory, I love you my son. And I want you to be happy as you have made me. Vanessa’s fingers patted the wrapped gift. And I believe that you’re gonna love what we have for you. I know I’ve said many things about this before. But now it’s time for the future. You’re my future Gregory. And I want to be there with you every step of the way. I never got the wish to be happy in my childhood. So let me make yours come true…
Vanessa thought about how everything had unfolded as Luis drove into her neighborhood. Her worries had completely faded as of now. The excitement was all that was left in her heart.
Her house appeared in the view as Luis’ car slowed down. Her doorstep faced the driveway as she unbuckled her seatbelt. “I’ll take the cake to my house until the party as we agreed, right?” Luis double checked.
Vanessa nodded and smiled. She felt her hand reach out to grasp Luis’ arm. “Hey also..”
“Yeah?” Luis realized his eyes were locked deeply at his girlfriend’s line of sight. Something else was happening. Vanessa’s face was getting closer, Luis felt himself freeze. It took him completely by surprise. He felt Vanessa’s soft lips brush against his. The pair closed their eyes as they shared the kiss.
Vanessa slowly pulled away after a while. Her cheeks were gushing pink. There was nothing more to say. Words weren’t enough to beat the compassion she had just been shown. She slowly got out of the car, present tucked in her arm. Luis still felt speechless. No way! That was… wow! Was I dreaming?
Vanessa mirrored Luis’s gleeful smile and waved. Luis waved back, eventually driving off. He glanced back using his side mirror to see Vanessa enter her house. It’d been a long night.
Tomorrow is another day…
“I’ll see you again Ness,” Luis replied to himself as he safely drove home.
XXX
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
The alarm rang.
Vanessa slowly peaked at the greeting sunlight as her head sunk deeper into her pillow. She pressed the snooze button and slowly sloughed up. Today’s the big day!
It felt funny, to pretend like it was an ordinary morning when Gregory awoke. Same schedule as usual. He got ready for school and boarded the bus. Not suspecting anything. He doesn’t know- Vanessa giggled to herself, proud of how everything was coming together. She spent the whole afternoon texting Luis, making sure everything was in place. This feels new. There wasn’t a feeling of stress present. She no longer had a drive to achieve perfection. She knew that she was enough. No, more than enough. Gregory was going to enjoy this.
Soon enough as school ended, Luis picked up both Vanessa and Gregory. The child’s bored out face suddenly glowed with a cheered smile as he noticed that Luis was driving towards the Pizzaplex.
“Oh, are we gonna hang around the arcade?” Gregory asked, peaking his face at the window.
“Mhm, I think you deserve a well-earned treat for studying so hard.” Vanessa said with a merry voice. Gregory shot his arm in the air with energy. “Alright! Let’s go!” He exclaimed blissfully.
As Luis parked, Vanessa and Greg hopped out with Luis behind. Luis was about to open the trunk before his hand came to an abrupt stop. He turned to Vanessa, realizing Gregory was watching him.
Vanessa’s instincts clicked, she nudged Gregory playfully and took off. “Race you to the entrance!”
“Hey no fair!” Gregory raced after her. “Last one’s a lazy mop bot!”
Luis laughed softly and slowly popped the trunk open, taking the cake and gift with him. Now that he’s distracted, that’s my cue.
Gregory and Vanessa burst through the doors at full speed. Everyone else had already gathered at the lobby. Roxxanne and Monty continuously shot stares at each other, before they saw Gregory had entered the scene. He raced straight into a hug of Glamrock Freddy. “Back for more fun superstar?”
“I sure am!” Gregory punched the air again, clicking his heels. He caught a glimpse of Glamrock Chica wiping her stained beak as she yelled “Pizza!” repeatedly. The Daycare Attendant was following her lead, cleaning up torn wrapping paper and cheese stains after her. Sun cocked his head towards Gregory, reacting as fast as he could to dump the trash in the nearest bin. He awkwardly skipped to waving at Gregory, who waved back without suspicion.
“So which game are we gonna play first?” Gregory called out eagerly.
Roxanne was about to suggest something before Monty pushed her aside to interrupt. “Gator Creek!” He roared with pride.
“Gator Creek is for toddlers,” Roxanne mockingly objected. “Howl Mayhem is a good one if you want to show you’re the best,” she shrugged her hair and flexed her arm.
“How about we let Gregory pick?” Freddy suggested, pointing his finger as the idea sprung up his circuits. Gregory tapped his finger in his chin, wondering how he was gonna choose out of the hundreds of arcade games. Chica stumbled right back on the scene, fumbling as she squawked “Pizza!” again.
“Good idea,” Gregory remembered. “Let’s head to the Pizzam machine!” Gregory sprinted, leaving Roxanne and Monty speechless at Chica. “HOW?!!” They both asked, wondering why everyone listens to Chica.
It didn’t take long for Monty and Roxanne to go after Gregory. They didn’t want to miss competing again. Vanessa walked to Chica, noticing that she was in a dizzy stance.
“Pizza!” She squealed, almost as if she was resisting a powerful urge within her.
“Chica what happened?” Vanessa inspected her bestie, looking very worried. Chica’s eyes twitched heavily, her beak hung open and snapped shut.
“Chica couldn’t find much of a gift to get for Gregory,” Freddy explained. “So she tried wrapping the one she liked that she knew she could give him.”
“Pizza…” Chica interrupted weakly, placing her hand on Vanessa’s arm, resting on the floor as her eyes jiggled in her sockets.
“Unfortunately she kept ripping open her gifts of pizza due to her having quite an appetite. So she tried hiding tons of wrapped pizza from herself all around the Pizzaplex and attempted to stay on…diet,” Glamrock Freddy shook his head pitifully.
“Oh my, you must be starving,” Vanessa helped Chica up. She really was fighting off her instincts to not eat. But she could easily have snapped into full hungry mode at any moment. Vanessa walked her to the party room. “Freddy, help me keep Gregory occupied. Me and Chica will set up the surprise with Luis.”
“You can count on me Vanessa,” Freddy flashed a “rock and roll” hand gesture, before going after Gregory.
Chica weakly pointed towards a ticket booth. “I’ve hidden….. my last gift in there…. I need to stay away from it until the time is right…”
“Let’s get you cleaned up,” Vanessa hummed. “Don’t worry, we’ll get you fixed.”
“Wait for me! I want to help too!” Sun danced after them in an altered state.
“I have an idea,” Vanessa looked at Sun in relief.
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
The Pizzam Machine spat out a stream of tickets as the bright words of “New Best'' flashed at the draw-dropped faces of Roxy and Monty. Gregory jumped up and down energetically. He basked in his victory as the name GGY took the top spot of the high score leaderboard.
“We uh,” Roxanne and Monty looked at the floor, swallowing their pride ever so bluntly. “We went easy on you,” they both commented in sync.
“Sure you did,” Gregory blew his hair and collected his winnings. “Now should we chill at the VIP Party Room?”
“NO!!!!” Roxy and Monty exclaimed, taking Gregory by surprise.
“Uh what I mean is-“ Roxy thought hard, scratching her paw against her chin.
“There’s so much else to do!” Monty raised his finger, nudging Roxanne.
“Right right,” Roxanne nudged back, giving an annoyed yet silent stare at Monty. “Freddy, what’s the latest addition to the Pizzaplex’s arcade?”
Glamrock Freddy stared blankly as his system searched for the latest intel. He then robotically stood tall and pointed his finger up before explaining. “The Fazer Blast has received numerous updates in the past week from-“ Freddy went on to ramble about every specific detail. Closing his eyes fashionably as he explained with a glamorous smile.
Gosh this is turning into a lecture….. Monty listened boredly to Freddy’s tutorial guide, realizing Roxy is already racing Gregory to the Fazer Blast. “Hey wait up!” Monty Gator took off.
“-coin consumables each sold separately , if you have a VIP voucher you may play modes like Zombie Mode and Frenzy, discounts apply-“ Freddy opened his eyes, finally realizing he was talking to no one. “Oh-“
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Luis stacked all the gifts by the other Glamrocks on the side table. The cake sat in the center. He noticed a scuffling voice as Glamrock Chica was helping herself to an endless supply of slushie in the next room. Sun was multitasking between hanging the decorations and mopping up excess slush leaks coming from the other room. He looked exhausted but determined to keep up with the max process.
Vanessa took another deep breath and blew the last balloon, tying its knot. Luis hung up a Happy Birthday banner and strung it to the corner poles of the room.
“Ok let’s see….balloons?” Vanessa eyed her list.
“Check,” Luis presented.
“Cake and presents?” She called out.
“Done.” Luis replied
“Food?” She asked, looking worried.
Both Luis and Ness turned to see the table of snacks and delicacies unspoiled and untouched, causing the pair to sigh in relief. Sun scrambled back to Glamrock Chica’s room as his jester heels clicked, causing him to fall over.
Before Vanessa could react, Sun shot his hands straight in front of him to counter his fall, his palms cushioned the floor, tipping his entire body into a forward somersault. He spun flamboyantly in an almost similar fashion to a looney tune cartoon. Sun landed right back on his feet and proceeded to grab the mop before the mess would grow.
Glamrock Chica sat there under the slush machine, her beak widened to intake more fizzy liquids, causing it to spill on her room floor. Her eyes suggested she was lost in another world. Sun shook his head, once the machine runs out, it’s gonna be hopeless. Sun looked at the food table nervously as he mopped.
Vanessa heard her phone buzzing. She answered her call. “Freddy?” She could hear laser beam sound effects in the background.
“Gregory is about to head back once we finish this round. Is everything ready?” Freddy’s voice beeped in.
“Yes yes, the party is set,” Vanessa hushed in an affirming voice. “No more stalling. Thank you Freddy.”
The call ended quickly. Vanessa looked at the Daycare Attended working hard to clean up Chica’s leftover spillings. “Sun, are you able to keep this up until Gregory arrives?”
Sun spun and rotated his head like a wheel before nodding, keeping his ever stained smile. “Just a lil longer,” Luis encouraged, “You’re doing great!”
Vanessa shut the binders on the window panels to make sure no one could see what they were up to from outside. She and Luis prepped up confetti blasters and faced the doubled doors. Any moment right now, Gregory would be in for the big surprise!
Seconds ticked by, they could hear the slightest footsteps of a child sprint across the carpeted hall followed by multiple metallic foot stomps parading after.
“I win!” Gregory shouted at the top of his lungs as he burst through the double doors as sudden as a Jack-in-a-Box. He felt alive, springing forward as the champion of the race. His victory call was instantly interrupted.
Gregory was frozen with shock as his jaw started to hang open. The surprise wasted no time. Confetti shot out and fired at Gregory, flailing ribbons and puffs of coloured paper shards at his entrance. The balloons kissed the ceilings and dangled their tails over the tables. The cake was lit and sparkling with its candles.
“SURPRISE!” Everyone chanted.
“Whoa what?!” Gregory stood back at the sudden exclamation of the party. His eyes started to water as his smile grew. This scene he witnessed, there was something speaking to his heart. He felt just right at home and was touched emotionally. “You all planned this just for me?”
Vanessa started to clap in sync. The Glamrocks arrived behind. Sun recognised his cue and lowered the lights, making the candles more ambient. Chica kept herself from asking about eating some cake. Vanessa took a deep breath as did everyone. “Happy Birthday to you….”
Gregory felt his hand reach his heart. The others chimed in as they sang this lovely song. Gregory had never looked so happy. This felt new to his eyes, it promised him that his friends cared about him.
As the song ended, Vanessa softly placed a party hat on Gregory. “Make a wish,” she whispered.
Gregory sipped in the air and blew out the candles. “You are all my wish,” he replied sweetly. Everyone cheered in response.
Roxanne and Monty got into their cues, holding their gifts forwards. Chica stumbled out from the other room, holding her crumbled gift. The Daycare Attendant dusted her beak with a hope of polish before grabbing his own gift as he turned back on the lights. That was a close one… he thought to himself.
Freddy got his gift and Vanessa took her place in line behind him. Luis got out his camera and started taking pictures. Roxanne flushed her hair to sway from the side and knelt in front of Gregory. “Happy Birthday.”
Gregory opened her red parcel wrapped in purple ribbons. He pulled a hand mirror and some appliances for styling his hair. “With this you might even look cool as me,” Roxy joked playfully.
Gregory chuckled. “Thanks Roxy.”
Roxy smiled as she let out her most humble line. “You’re the best.”
Next, Monty stepped ahead and placed a large green box topped with a yellow bow. “Are you ready for this kid?”
“You bet!” Gregory pumped, unwrapping the gift to find two gator themed dumbbells. He picked one up and slowly lifted it.
“Remember kid, if you wanna be like me, take care of em biceps,” Monty flexed.
“Thanks I will,” Gregory flexed back, also putting down the dumbbell. It was heavier than it looked! Next came Sun, holding a very small dark blue parcel. Gregory unwrapped it to reveal a Moon shaped night light.
“Aw,” Vanessa warmly admired.
“To help you sleep better when the night turns the lights off,” Sun presented humbly.
“Thank you Sun,” Gregory appreciated, “I’ll be using this a lot!”
Chica shook as her turn came. Her beak twitched open. “Oh my, Chica what happened?” Gregory asked, looking worried.
“Nothin-“ Chica’s voice cut as she presented her gift in Gregory’s arms. “I got something for you.”
Gregory could smell something baked and delicious underneath. He opened his crumpled pink parcel to see a mass of cheese, tomato sauce, and crispy dough. “Lasagna?”
“P-pizza!” Chica chirped assuringly. “Do you like it?”
Gregory smiled back at Chica, seeing the effort she went through. “I love it,” Gregory patted Chica. “You know, it is more fun to share,” he handed her the box. Are you hungry?“
Chica nodded in delight, as Gregory let her devour the pizza mass as he watched in satisfaction. “Thanks Chica.”
Now it was Glamrock Freddy’s turn. It was smaller than the others. No larger than Greg’s doubled fist. It was bright orange, tied off neatly with a cyan bow. Gregory’s eyes fell on Freedy, who smiled in return. “Happy Birthday Superstar.”
Gregory lifted off the lid of the gift. Inside was a brand new faz watch. “Oh wow!”
Freddy pointed his finger up and explained the qualities of the watch as he slid his eyes closed in a humble fashion. “The faz watch is an upgraded version of the one you have. Aside from apps like games and learning tools, the faz watch is also connected to our systems. Which means you can finally contact us whenever you like.”
“Wait, really??! Anytime?” Gregory’s mouth spun into a gleeful smile. Freddy’s eyes shot open as he remembered. “Well except for school hours,” he let out a mechanical chuckle, scratching his ear with a tweak. Freddy felt something suddenly wrap around him. He looked down to see the young birthday boy giving him a big bear hug. Freddy calmly patted his mopped hair. “I promise I’ll call you guys everyday!” Gregory cheered.
Finally it was time for Vanessa’s present. She stood strong and firm, but remembered to smile as she gracefully approached Gregory. The parcel was pinkish white with red ribbons and a bow. As Gregory examined the parcel, he could feel its weight. Books?
Vanessa could see that Gregory was confused a bit. But as he slowly unwrapped, Gregory’s draw dropped hard. “Oh my-“
This present was the largest. But Gregory could never have predicted what he just got.
“A VR headset!!” Gregory exclaimed at the top of his lungs. “Wait, but didn’t you say-“
Vanessa nodded. “My fears kept me from letting us have fun. I always wanted to protect you from anything. It took me a while to see that.” Vanessa turned to Luis for a moment. “But I know now that no matter what happens, as long as we are together, nothing can hurt us. That’s why-“ Vanessa motioned Gregory to unwrap the present further, revealing that there were three headsets in that box. “I wanted us to play together. I knew you always wanted a VR headset. We can spend time on everything as a family.” Vanessa finished her words warmly.
Gregory started to wipe his eyes, he felt so touched by her words. Tears, but tears of joy, ran along his cheeks as he gave Vanessa the biggest hug ever. “Happy Birthday Gregory.”
“Thank you-“ Gregory sniffed and hugged harder. “Mom.” He finished.
“Aw.” Everyone smiled in awe. Vanessa could feel a release in her heart that she hadn’t felt for so long. She felt this was her new beginning. Luis, Gregory, and everyone present. This was her family now. And she would treasure them to her core. With only joy erupting out of her, the future had never been so bright as a lit torch, guiding her through her brand new life.
“So who wants cake?” Chica wiped her mouth. Everyone laughed in response, celebrating.
The End.