Chapter 284

Suzanne couldn't help but glance at Austin, only to find his gaze warm as a gentle smile rested on his lips. The soft, childlike melody of a song lingered in the air.

As the song came to an end, Emma toddled over on her tiny legs, her rosy cheeks glowing with delight.

"Aunt Suzanne, happy birthday!" she chirped.

Her sweet, airy voice rang out again. "Close your eyes and make a wish before blowing out the candles!"

Her eyes locked on Suzanne's, brimming with anticipation.

Suzanne snapped back to the moment, her heart melting at the sight. Crouching down to meet Emma at eye level, she smiled softly. "Alright."

How could she possibly deny Emma's wish?

Just as she pressed her palms together, ready to make a wish, she heard Emma's hushed voice whisper, "Aunt Suzanne, can you wish for a little baby for me to play with?"

A brief silence followed before chuckles rippled behind them. They were amused by Emma's unexpected request.

Instinctively, Suzanne glanced toward Austin. He was watching her with a flicker of amusement in his eyes.

Something unfamiliar stirred in her chest.

Quick to avert her eyes, Suzanne turned and smiled at Emma, playfully pinching her tiny nose. "It's a secret."

face and stuck out

blew out the candles, and took the cake from Emma's hands, sparing her the effort

happy birthday. I hope you get prettier and cooler

at her lips. She reached out and gently

the Barbie dolls from her hands. Then,

a smile, he

His gaze never wavered.

at him, her smile

though he was supposed to be away on a long business trip, he had returned just for this. The realization left her

birthday in any particularly special way before. Marsha would sometimes send her gifts, but they had

the

did, it was rare.

seat. Austin booked this restaurant in advance just for

they all

Suzanne looked at the

lump formed in her throat. She had been so busy she had

and even planned all

this much, Suzanne

Barbie dolls beside Austin. She scooted closer, her chubby fingers pointing

for me?" she

aside, Suzanne finally remembered. Bending down to pick up the dolls, she

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