He exhaled smoke from his cigarette, his thoughts murky.


    In the living room, a maid approached Dulcie.


    Mrs.


    Shaw, dinner is served.


    Shall we proceed with setting the table? After a moments hesitation, she declined, No, lets wait.


    Ill see if Kyson is ready.


    Preparing to head up, she paused as Kyson stepped out of his study.


    Their gazes briefly intertwined, causing Dulcie to avert her eyes with a blush. Kyson made his way down the stairs unhurriedly, his attention asionally returning to where the bouquet had once stood.


    Dulcie, noticing his distraction, felt a wave of anxiety.


    Hastily, she remarked, Uh… dinner is ready.


    Should we start? sure, Kyson replied simply.


    He led the way to the dining room, Dulcie trailing a few steps behind.


    The maids presented the dishes they had prepared, cing arge strawberry cream cake at the center of the table.


    Embellished with Dulcies name and a charming caricature of her alongside Kyson, the cake immediately drew attention.


    Upon noticing the cake, Dulcies smile blossomed. Clearly, Sally had orchestrated this delightful surprise.


    Kyson, catching her beaming expression, found himself smiling in response.


    They settled into their seats, and the maids discreetly exited the room, leaving it solely to them.


    The vast dining room now felt more intimate, yet Dulcies nerves seemed to amplify in the quiet, her heart thumping audibly.


    Kyson, perceptive of her slight unease, stood to light a few candles atop the cake.


    Come here.


    I Ill be right there, Dulcie replied, her voice a blend of excitement and shyness.


    She moved closer, assisting him in arranging and lighting the candles. With the overhead lights now dimmed, Kyson signaled her to put her palms together and whispered, Make a wish.


    His voice was retaining its usual cool detachment.


    Despite his icy tone, Dulcie felt an overwhelming sense of joy.


    She closed her eyes, cherishing the moment, and made a heartfelt wish.


    Kyson watched herposed expression, his heart softening.


    When she opened her eyes, he couldnt help but ask, What did you wish for? Dulcies smile held a hint of mystery.


    Its a secret, she said.


    After all, sharing it might rob the wish of its magic.