To someone less acquainted with him, his straightforwardness might seem odd.


    Despite his efforts to master the art of romance, Hilliard’s approach remained endearingly straightforward.


    Jennifer felt a twinge of irritation at Hilliard’s suggestion and politely declined, “You might be done with your work, but I’m not.


    I won’t be joining you.


    ”


    Hilliard was taken aback by her response.


    Did she think he hadn’t done his part to help her finish her work?


    He approached her again, concern in his voice.


    “Is there something urgent that needs finishing? Let me help.


    This is the first time I’m here to celebrate your birthday.


    Are you sure you want to miss out?”


    Jennifer looked down, her voice soft.


    “I’ve celebrated more than twenty birthdays.


    Each year feels the same.


    It’s not that exciting.


    ”


    But Hilliard, undeterred and hopeful, took her hand gently.


    “This year is different because I’m with you.


    That makes it special.


    ”


    She remained silent, her mind wandering to the typical date scenarios: movies, dinner, perhaps a hotel stay.


    Despite her outward indifference, she felt a flutter of excitement but chose to keep her feelings hidden.


    Hilliard pressed on, “Your mom mentioned earlier that she’d be locking up the vi.


    If you were thinking of going back, it won’t be possible.


    You’ll have toe with me.


    ”


    The news left Jennifer speechless, struggling to believe her mother would conspire against her like that.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Noticing her dismay, Hilliard hurried to reassure her, “She’s doing this because she cares about you.


    I am your fiancé, and she knows I’ll look after you.


    ”


    “Which movie are we going to see?” Jennifer inquired, her curiosity piqued.


    “How about a popr romance film?” he suggested.


    Jennifer couldn’t help but feel impressed, recognizing it as a step forward from the usual horror or sci-fi thrillers he might have proposed.


    Being the head of the Turner Group, she decided to take a brief hiatus from work that afternoon, a decision no one would dare question.


    Together, they left the corporate tower behind, heading to the cinema where they picked up popcorn and c before settling in for their movie date.


    Meanwhile, Lucinda spent her afternoon engrossed in strategizing a new venture into the eSports industry.


    As the day wound down, her phone’s ring broke her concentration.


    However, it wasn’t Nathan on the other end, urging her to return home, but Kyson.


    With a moment’s hesitation, she answered, only to be greeted by Kyson’s enthusiastic voice.


    “Do you remember your promise to take me out for dinner once you returned to the country? You’ve been back for some time now.


    When do you n to keep that promise? Have you forgotten about it entirely?”


    Lucinda found herself at a loss for words.