The second Lillith opened her eyes, she knew something wasn't right. Yes, indeed - it was too quiet. Where was all the noise? The shouting? The clanging of pots and pans, or the occasional shatter when dad dropped a glass? And then another thought entered her mind, trumping all of the others.

My Birthday!

Hastily, Lillith jumped out of bed and raced down the stairs. She hurried into the kitchen, excitement basically bursting out of her. But when she entered the kitchen, it was as though her bubble of happiness had popped. Her smile turned into a frown as she examined the kitchen. It was all neat and tidy, spotless, and it nearly seemed empty. No-one was there, and the only thing keeping her company was a large cake sitting on the kitchen isle. Next to the cake was a quickly written note, in her mother's distinguishable handwriting:

Happy Birthday, my little Pumpkin-Pie!

I really wish me and your father could be there with you to celebrate. I really am sorry. It fills my heart with sadness to know you have to spend your birthday alone. Sadly, we were called to work. But don't let that get you down - eleven! Your father and I wish you the best.

Alicia (+ Joshua, your father.)

P.S.: You might even get the letter today!

Lillith finished reading the short note. She felt tears welling up in her eyes and her vision became blurry - but no! Today was her birthday, and she wouldn't let anything bring her down! And then Lillith's thoughts wandered to what her mother had written last, about getting her letter today. How she feared she wouldn't get it - how she feared she was a Squib.

Lillith shook her head. She took a deep intake of breath, and then exhaled loudly, hoping this would exterminate all negative thoughts. She stumbled into the bathroom and glared at her reflection in the mirror. Eleven. She felt the same, she looked the same. She still had the same hair. It was just as straight, silky and snow-white as ever. (Yes, I know it's not very common to have white hair, but get over it). She still had the same eyes. They were just as emerald green as always. Her lips were just as blood-red. Her skin was just as tanned as it had been yesterday.

Then she heard it. Lillith stopped. Her heart was pounding against her chest, as though it was trying to escape. She exited the bathroom. It was unmistakeable. The screeching of an owl. Then the letter flap opened, and closed again, making a reverberating sound. Lillith could feel a burning sensation in her throat and chest. She slowly approached the front door. On the Welcome! Mat lay a lonely, cream-coloured envelope. And inside, no doubt, was a just as cream-coloured letter. She reached out her hand and picked it up. And there it was. Her Future.