Lilian carried the cake home with a smile, her heart as light as the frosting she'd just finished. It was still early, so she took her time making the apartment perfect.
Candlelight.
Soft, warm scents drifting from the aromatherapy.
Dinner from his favorite restaurant, delivered right on time.
And herself—dressed in a flowing white tulle dress.
By seven o'clock, Morrison arrived.
The moment she saw him, Lilian's face lit up. She ran into his arms, pressed a kiss to his lips, and whispered with a smile,
"Happy birthday."
Morrison's gaze swept over her—her dress, the candles, the scent in the air. A flicker of surprise passed through his deep eyes.
He hadn't expected her to go to such lengths for his birthday…
Especially not tonight. Not when the reason he'd come clashed so painfully with the world she had prepared for him.
Lilian didn't notice the heaviness in his expression. She took his arm and urged gently,
"Go wash up. Dinner's ready."
