Chapter 85

On the night of Bruce's birthday, I changed into a white dress and put on some light makeup. I arrived at the restaurant Bruce had told me ten minutes early as promised.

Bruce had arrived earlier, and he was dressed very formally. He was adjusting his collar when I stepped into the room. When he saw me, he stood up and smiled, slightly nervous.

I looked around and was mildly surprised at what I saw.

"What's this?" I asked, looking at the exquisite candlelit dinner on the table and the music band waiting nearby.

"Well..." Bruce cleared his throat. "Why don't we eat first?"

I was filled with doubt, but I took my seat. The music was gentle, and it gradually made me relax. We chatted as we ate, and it was surprisingly pleasant.

"Happy birthday!" I said, raising my wine glass.

We gently clinked our glasses together, and a crisp sound echoed in the air.

"Thank you, Rylee."

Bruce had a gentle look on his face, and the warm candlelight further softened his features as he looked at me.

"It's