Chapter 856

Melanie looked toward Xander, who was standing at the back of the crowd, and smiled. “Thank you.”

Xander’s eyes sparkled with a smile as he said, “It was a shame that I couldn’t stay longer before, but fortunately, your birthday came around.”

Melanie froze momentarily and then looked at Yvonne, who immediately said, “It wasn’t me!”

Laughter erupted, with Meredith’s giggles particularly obvious. She probably sensed something and continuously clapped and called for her mother.

The festivities continued until eight in the evening. They decided to go out for a barbecue. Melanie walked at the back, with Xander by her side, She watched the scene of Reny and Yvonne playing with Meredith ahead, unable to hold back her smile. After laughing, she looked at Xander again. “This is the happiest birthday I’ve ever had.”

Xander said, “Don’t say ‘ever‘. You’ll be happy in the future too.”

“I’m taking your word for it.”

When they were at the neighborhood entrance, Yvonne and the others walked ahead, laughing and chatting Only Melanie and Xander were left behind.

The group’s voices gradually faded, and suddenly, Melanie heard Xander say, “I think I forgot to wish you a happy birthday today.

“Happy birthday, Mel.”

Xander’s voice was deep, and he intentionally softened it, making it sound even gentler.

Melanie was momentarily stunned before replying, “Mm, thank you.”

“Here’s your gift.” As soon as she finished speaking, Xander took a box and handed it to her.

Melanie opened the box to find a bracelet inside. It sparkled under the streetlamp. It looked stunning.

Xander watched her reaction and cleared his throat, asking, “Do you like it?”

“Of course!” Melanie genuinely liked it, saying, “It’s so beautiful. The taste of an artist is indeed different.”

Xander murmured, “I’m glad you like it.”

“I do,” Melanie said. She then raised her wrist and put the bracelet on.

The shimmering bracelet looked even more beautiful on her delicate wrist.

Xander’s gaze softened, but he could not tell Melanie the story behind the bracelet.

Legend had it that if a man made a bracelet for a woman with his hands and she wore it, they would always be together.

This bracelet was not bought. He had made it himself.

However, even as he smiled at Melanie’s joyful expression, he hesitated to speak.

It was not until Yvonne’s impatient voice came from afar that they began walking toward the exit, Melanie did not notice a car was parked in the dark.

Eugene was sitting in the car, watching the direction Melanie and Xander had left in. He remained hidden in the dark Only the box he held reflected the streetlight from outside, revealing the letters engraved on it ‘M.S.‘

It was a gift he had wanted to give Melanie a long time ago.

However, it seemed like it was too late.