Page 109 of When He Was Mine

A small smirk tugged at my lips despite my mood. "That would not serve me well. I rather like your dick."

"I think you more than like my dick," Oliver quipped, a hint of humor in his voice, "but I’ll keep it to myself until you’re in a better mood."

"Jerk," I muttered under my breath, turning away from him as he shook his head and helped me on with my coat.

Vlad was waiting downstairs with the black sedan, a silent witness to the tension that crackled between us. I slipped into the car, ignoring Oliver's presence beside me as we headed home. My thoughts churned with bitterness, knowing that the penthouse would be devoid of any Christmas cheer.

“Sweetheart?” Oliver's voice broke through my reverie, his concern evident even as I stared blankly out the window.

"What?" I snapped, my gaze fixed on the passing lights of the city adorned with festive decorations.

“Are you going to be angry at me all night?”

"Maybe. Maybe not." My response was curt, devoid of any warmth as I continued to stare out the window, refusing to meet his gaze.

I heard him sigh beside me, the sound heavy with resignation, before he started tapping away on his phone. When we finally arrived at our building, I wished to escape his presence. I didn't want to touch him or speak to him, my mood darkened by the thought of returning to a Christmas-less penthouse.

Oliver waited for me, offering his hand which I waved away dismissively. Pulling my coat tighter around me, I made my way to the door, my steps heavy with the weight of my emotions. In the elevator, I stared down at my shoes, trying to block out the world around me.

We were nearly to the apartment when Oliver suddenly remembered the mail. He told me to go ahead as he headed back to the elevator. With a heavy heart, I unlocked the door with the key he had given me and pushed it open, only to freeze in astonishment.

The entire place was transformed, bathed in the warm glow of Christmas lights. A towering ten-foot tree dominated the living room, its branches adorned with an array of colorful ornaments. Red garland twirled around its length, and a festive tree skirt sat beneath, proclaiming "Merry Christmas" in cheerful green letters. Lights twinkled around the windows, casting a soft glow across the room, and festive decorations adorned every surface.

For a moment, I stood there, stunned into silence by the unexpected sight. Then, slowly, a small smile crept across my face, thawing the bitterness that had settled in my heart.

"I was busy today," Oliver's voice came from behind me, and I turned to face him, my eyes brimming with tears as I took in the sight of our transformed home. He had done this for me, despite his discomfort, and the realization flooded me with a mixture of gratitude and love. Without hesitation, I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him close as I planted a fervent kiss on his lips.

"You did this for me?" I sniffled, overcome with emotion.

"I’d do anything for you," he replied softly, his arms encircling me in a tight embrace. "All by yourself?" I asked, feeling a surge of wonder.

"I can’t take all the credit. Anna helped me decorate," he admitted, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Anna, one of Oliver’s assistants, was known for her love of Christmas, and the thought of her lending a hand filled me with warmth.

"I don’t know what to say," I admitted, feeling a lump form in my throat.

"An apology would be nice," he teased, a playful grin tugging at his lips.

"You’re incredible, and I’m sorry," I replied earnestly, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders.

"Do you know what you’re apologizing for?" he quipped, raising an eyebrow.

"Being a grouch and calling you names," I admitted sheepishly, feeling a flush of embarrassment.

"That would sum it up. Check out the patio," he urged, gesturing towards the sliding glass door.

Stepping closer, I peered outside and gasped in delight. The patio was adorned with twinkling lights and a smaller Christmas tree stood near the door, mirroring the festive display inside.

"You really went all out," I murmured, feeling overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness.

"I wanted you to be happy. I have a big surprise for you on Christmas Eve," he confessed, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"You know I hate surprises," I protested weakly, but he only grinned in response.

"Too bad. Get used to it. Wasn’t this a surprise?" he teased, his tone laced with amusement.

"Yes, but what surprises me more is that you did this on your own. You could’ve hired someone," I pointed out, touched by his sincerity.

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