Chapter 1000

Sensing her unease, Matthew leaned in and whispered, “Grandma’s likely here on a mission.

Let’s just play along.

”

Stella, taken aback at first, nodded in understanding and leaned into Matthew’s embrace.

Matthew, with a smile, gently rubbed her waist, causing her to blush once more.

ALL Stella could do was hope the photo session would end soon.

The dinner concluded in a warm and pleasant atmosphere.

Lucia glanced at her watch, then rose from her seat.

“It’s getting late.

I should head home.

”

“Grandma, it’s quite late.

Why not stay the night here?” Stella suggested, concerned.

Lucia, however, declined the offer.

“No need, dear.

My driver is waiting outside.

”

“Grandma, wait a bit.

I have a surprise for you.

” Matthew glanced at his watch, as if timing the moment perfectly.

Both Lucia and Stella exchanged puzzled looks, unaware of any surprise Matthew had planned.

Then, the doorbell rang.

Matthew answered the door, ushering in two well-dressed people pushing shelves adorned with glittering evening gowns.

Stella’s eyes lit up in awe at the sight.

“Why the evening gowns? Is there a party coming up?” Stella asked, confused.

Matthew smiled at her and then turned to Lucia.

“Grandma, next week is your seventieth birthday.

I planned for Stella to help you choose a gown in a couple of days.

Since you’re here, you can pick one now.

If none of these are to your liking, I’ll have new ones sent over.

”

“I nearly forgot about my own birthday.

” Lucia was touched by his thoughtfulness.

“You’ve surprised me, Matthew.

It’s been years since my birthday was celebrated with such personal attention.

”

She credited Stella for the positive change she observed in Matthew.

She turned to Stella, her eyes gleaming with approval.

“Stella, with your fashion expertise, would you help me choose?”

Stella nodded, carefully inspecting each gown.