Chapter 117

"I'm not sure," Dominic murmured, his deep voice barely above a whisper. "Don't concern yourself with them."

Evelyn's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Then let's get a massive one! Twelve inches perhaps?"

Dominic turned to the bakery assistant without hesitation. "Twelve inches."

"Absolutely! Are you two celebrating something special? You make such a lovely couple," the assistant gushed, her smile widening.

A rosy flush crept up Evelyn's neck, painting her porcelain cheeks crimson.

Meanwhile, Dominic's attention drifted to the pastry display. "Would you like to select something additional to take home?"

"That's alright..." Evelyn began.

"Choose something for your mother." Dominic's ears turned pink as he spoke.

Noticing his rare display of shyness, Evelyn suppressed a giggle. "Alright then! I'll pick something."

They departed the bakery an hour later.

Dominic carried the oversized cake box with visible discomfort.

The streets were nearly deserted.

Though winter's chill hung in the air, an inexplicable warmth enveloped them both.

Upon entering Villa Serenade's private dining room, all conversation ceased abruptly.

Dominic's cream cashmere sweater softened his usual imposing presence.

The cake box in his arms seemed utterly foreign to his image.

Everyone knew Dominic Blackwood never indulged in sweets.

Lucas cleared his throat dramatically as he approached. "You went cake shopping? I brought one too, though not nearly as grand."

Under the weight of curious stares, Evelyn shifted uncomfortably. "He suddenly craved cake, so we made a stop."

Lucas choked on air. "Dominic wanted cake?"

"Indeed," Evelyn confirmed. "Is everyone present? I'll prepare the cake then."

As Evelyn moved away, Lucas reached for Dominic's sweater. "Incredibly soft. Miss Thorne has excellent taste. Aren't you overheating? Let me help you—"

Dominic swatted Lucas' hand away with a glare. "Don't."

Undeterred, Lucas grinned and guided Dominic to his seat.

After Evelyn positioned the cake, Lucas signaled the waitstaff to begin service.

Dominic methodically arranged candles atop the frosting.

The room held its collective breath.

Since when did Dominic Blackwood participate in birthday rituals?

Hadn't he famously declared birthdays pointless?

Yet here he was, meticulously placing each candle with unexpected enthusiasm.

Once satisfied, Dominic produced a silver lighter.

The flickering flame held everyone mesmerized.

"Isn't this usually done after dark?" Evelyn whispered.

Lucas strode to the windows, drawing the heavy drapes. "Nonsense! Any time is perfect when Dominic desires it!"

Darkness swallowed the room instantly.

Lucas, ever attuned to Dominic's moods, observed the lighter with interest. "Is that new? Might I borrow it?"

Dominic pocketed the item protectively. "Evelyn gave it to me."

"Two gifts, Miss Thorne? How thoughtful," Lucas teased.

Evelyn's cheeks burned.

"Shall we sing?" she suggested hastily.

Her clear voice began the familiar melody, soon joined by others.

As the song concluded, Dominic closed his eyes to make his wish.

Evelyn studied his chiseled features illuminated by candlelight, wondering what secret desire filled his heart.