Sensing her unease, Matthew leaned in and whispered, “Grandma’s likely here on a mission.


    Let’s just y along.


    ”


    Ste, taken aback at first, nodded in understanding and leaned into Matthew’s embrace.


    Matthew, with a smile, gently rubbed her waist, causing her to blush once more.


    ALL Ste could do was hope the photo session would end soon.


    The dinner concluded in a warm and pleasant atmosphere.


    Lucia nced at her watch, then rose from her seat.


    “It’s gettingte.


    I should head home.


    ”


    “Grandma, it’s quitete.


    Why not stay the night here?” Ste suggested, concerned.


    Lucia, however, declined the offer.


    “No need, dear.


    My driver is waiting outside.


    ”


    “Grandma, wait a bit.


    I have a surprise for you.


    ” Matthew nced at his watch, as if timing the moment perfectly.


    Both Lucia and Ste exchanged puzzled looks, unaware of any surprise Matthew had nned.


    Then, the doorbell rang.


    Matthew answered the door, ushering in two well-dressed people pushing shelves adorned with glittering evening gowns.


    Ste’s eyes lit up in awe at the sight.


    “Why the evening gowns? Is there a partying up?” Ste asked, confused.


    Matthew smiled at her and then turned to Lucia.


    “Grandma, next week is your seventieth birthday.


    I nned for Ste to help you choose a gown in a couple of days.


    Since you’re here, you can pick one now.


    If none of these are to your liking, I’ll have new ones sent over.


    ”


    “I nearly forgot about my own birthday.


    ” Lucia was touched by his thoughtfulness.


    “You’ve surprised me, Matthew.


    It’s been years since my birthday was celebrated with such personal attention.


    ”? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    She credited Ste for the positive change she observed in Matthew.


    She turned to Ste, her eyes gleaming with approval.


    “Ste, with your fashion expertise, would you help me choose?”


    Ste nodded, carefully inspecting each gown.