That night, the garden looked completely different. Twinkling lights hung between the trees, a long table filled with dishes was neatly arranged, and soft music floated from the speakers. Adrian had prepared everything down to the smallest detail: a medium-sized cake, a bouquet of white roses—Deviana’s favorite—and invitations sent to close relatives and a few of her colleagues.

He had personally overseen everything himself. He wanted this day to be perfect.

Deviana stepped into the garden in a simple light blue dress. Her face froze in surprise at the small celebration. “This… what is all of this?” she whispered.

Adrian smiled warmly, offering her the flowers. “Happy birthday, Deviana. May...