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."

scrunched up her face and

made her wish, blew out the candles, and took the cake

Aunt Suzanne, happy birthday. I hope you get prettier and

her lips. She reached out and gently ruffled Emma's hair.

the Barbie dolls from her hands. Then, he handed her a bouquet

a smile, he whispered,

His gaze never wavered.

looked up at him,

he had returned just for this. The realization left her at a loss for words, emotions swirling inside

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

mark the occasion. If

did, it was rare.

"Come on, have a seat. Austin booked this

they all took

looked at

formed in her throat. She had been so busy she had forgotten the day entirely. But someone

even planned

cared about her this much, Suzanne felt warmth

eyes were glued to the Barbie dolls beside Austin. She

for me?" she

Suzanne finally remembered. Bending down to pick up the dolls, she grinned and responded, "Yes. I

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