To someone less acquainted with him, his straightforwardness might seem odd.
Despite his efforts to master the art of romance, Hilliardâs approach remained endearingly straightforward.
Jennifer felt a twinge of irritation at Hilliardâs suggestion and politely declined, âYou might be done with your work, but Iâm not.
I wonât be joining you.
â
Hilliard was taken aback by her response.
Did she think he hadnât done his part to help her finish her work?
He approached her again, concern in his voice.
âIs there something urgent that needs finishing? Let me help.
This is the first time Iâm here to celebrate your birthday.
Are you sure you want to miss out?â
Jennifer looked down, her voice soft.
âIâve celebrated more than twenty birthdays.
Each year feels the same.
Itâs not that exciting.
â
But Hilliard, undeterred and hopeful, took her hand gently.
âThis year is different because Iâm with you.
That makes it special.
â
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, âYour mom mentioned earlier that sheâd be locking up the villa.
If you were thinking of going back, it wonât be possible.
Youâll have to come with me.
â
The news left Jennifer speechless, struggling to believe her mother would conspire against her like that.
Noticing her dismay, Hilliard hurried to reassure her, âSheâs doing this because she cares about you.
I am your fiancé, and she knows Iâll look after you.
â
âWhich movie are we going to see?â Jennifer inquired, her curiosity piqued.
âHow about a popular romance film?â he suggested.
Jennifer couldnât 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 cola 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 phoneâs ring broke her concentration.
However, it wasnât Nathan on the other end, urging her to return home, but Kyson.
With a momentâs hesitation, she answered, only to be greeted by Kysonâs enthusiastic voice.
âDo you remember your promise to take me out for dinner once you returned to the country? Youâve been back for some time now.
When do you plan to keep that promise? Have you forgotten about it entirely?â
Lucinda found herself at a loss for words.