Chapter 171

The Birthday Gift When we entered the Starlight International penthouse, a dinner for two and a chilled bottle of wine were waiting for us.

Atlas pulled me into his arms and said, “Happy birthday! This was the best I could do because I’ve been swamped. But I’m glad I didn’t miss it.”

I leaned into him and said, “I prefer simple celebrations. Just being with you makes me happy.”

With a magician’s flair, he produced a gift box seemingly out of nowhere. I looked at him, and he gestured at me to open it.

I lifted the lid, revealing a stunning pen. It was adorned with diamonds and featured my initials inlaid with rubies.

“It’s gorgeous!” How did he know that I had a thing for pens?

Back then, I used to collect various pens and had a sizable collection at my parents‘ house. However, when life grew busier, I set my collection aside.

The pen was not just a luxury item. It was a genuine work of art–an Aurora Diamante fountain pen. It was a pen I had once mentioned to Matthew that I would buy when I became rich.

I Matthew responded by poking my forehead and saying, “Get real. Who buys a pen when they get rich?”

I remembered telling Atlas, saying, “You wouldn’t understand.” I didn’t tell him that Matthew’s response disappointed me.

“No, I can’t accept this. This is too expensive!” I closed the lid and handed the box back to him.

“I want you to use it to sign all the contracts you pursue. This pen symbolizes your new life, and I’ll help you achieve all your wishes because you deserve it.”

“But..it’s too expensive!” I knew this custom–made Aurora must’ve cost a fortune.

1 had it made just for you. It exists because of you. You won’t disappoint me, will you?”

He sounded so sweet that I couldn’t say no. What did I do to deserve him?

“We don’t have much time left. Do you really want to spend it debating something made just for you?”

He sounded like he would leave soon. I leaned into him, unsure when I would see him again.

He kissed me and said, “Now close your eyes and make another wish.”

I put my hands together and wished. Maybe it was impossible, but I wanted it. Didn’t I get the pen dreamed of? Everything was possible!

I opened my eyes and looked at his well–defined face. He always seemed strong in my presence, and I knew I could count on him.

“We’ll work together to fulfill that wish you made. You must make a new wish each year, and we’ll make it happen.” He handed me a glass of wine. “Go easy on this.”

I took it and murmured. “So you have to return to Quillbrooke?”

Atlas nodded. “The meeting is crucial.”

His voice turned serious as he said, “When I’m not around, you can always talk to Nick, especially regarding project matters. You only need to answer to him.”

“Anything?” I remembered the woman who requested the design drawings