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"There's always room for dessert," I replied with a grin.
"Good. I'm glad to hear," he said cryptically, leaving me curious about his sudden interest in sweets. My suspicions were soon answered when my favorite seven-layer chocolate cake, adorned with twenty-three candles, was brought to the table, one extra candle for good luck. I blew out the candles, silently grateful for Oliver's thoughtfulness.
As my mother and Anders presented an array of pastries from white bakery boxes, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed.
"Wow, I feel special," I remarked.
"Oliver had them sent up," my mother revealed.
You sent these up when?" I asked in surprise.
"This morning. I ordered them from a place on Mulberry Street," Oliver explained.
"I can see I'll have to starve myself this week after all these calories," I joked, though secretly touched by his gesture.
"You look beautiful," Oliver whispered, kissing me softly on the cheek.
After indulging in dessert, fatigue washed over me, and I longed for sleep. My thoughts about Finley and Sadie were confirmed when I stumbled upon them kissing in the hallway. Retreating upstairs to the familiar comfort of my old bedroom, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. While I was happy for them, I couldn't shake the uncertainty surrounding the origin of their relationship.
Returning downstairs, I found Finley and Sadie seated at the table, their smiles betraying their secret rendezvous. Resolving to address the matter later, I accepted the thoughtful gifts from my family and friends. Sadie's baby blue v-neck sweater, a symbol of her affection despite her tight budget, warmed my heart.
We left my parent’s home shortly before 10 p.m. We were exhausted since we worked all day. Everyone hitched a ride in Oliver’s limo since we were all heading back to Manhattan. I insisted on feeding Vlad during my party. He quietly ate his meal even though I offered for him to join us on the patio.
Matthew fell asleep on the ride while Finley and Sadie spoke in hushed tones on the bench seat to our left. Oliver whispered to me about them.
“When did that happen?”
“I have no idea. I think it’s cute. They make a nice couple.”
“Are you sure it doesn’t have anything to do with your brother’s money?”
“I hope not. Finley might seem hard on the outside but he’s a mush inside. I know he would be hurt if Sadie used him. I’ll get to the bottom of their relationship next time I’m home.”
“And when will that be,” Oliver said with a smirk.
“I need a night to myself. We discussed this.”
He nuzzled my ear. “Ryleigh, I’m kidding. I’m well aware of your need for space. I don’t like it but I’m giving it to you.”
I laced my fingers with his. “That doesn’t mean I don’t miss you.”
“I know. I don’t sleep well without you next to me. In fact, I hate it,” he grumbled.
“What do you have planned tomorrow?” I asked.
He smiled widely. “I can’t tell you. You’ll just have to be patient.”
“My mother loved the roses. She said you’re very polite.”
“What else did she say?” He asked with curiosity.
“She’s worried about our age difference.”
“I won’t hurt you. It would hurt me more.”
“I know. I told her that, but she can still worry. I’m her baby.”
“You’re my baby too.”
