Two wristwatches rested on the desk. Their intricate designs gleamed under the light, radiating a cool metallic charm that spoke of luxury.
Wilson glanced at them indifferently and quipped, “Thanks, but what’s the deal with gifting me a pair of watches? Are you mocking me for being single?”
Jacob chuckled. “The women’s watch? That’s for you to give to Serena.”
“She won’t accept it,” Wilson said.
“Well, that’s your problem.” Jacob smiled before continuing, “It’s a special day today. Want to grab a drink with me tonight?”
Wilson picked up the watches and tucked them away. “What’s so special about it? You know I don’t celebrate birthdays.”
“Can’t you make an exception for once?” Jacob clicked his tongue, though he wasn’t surprised. After that incident, Wilson had sworn off acknowledging his birthday.
A knock on the door interrupted them. Knuckles rapped against the wood, and after receiving permission, Serena stepped in. She nodded politely at Jacob. “Mr. Smith.”
“Why so formal? We’ve known each other for years. Just call me like you used to,” Jacob said.
After a brief pause, she obliged. “Jacob.”
She had met him during her time at the Farrow residence, where he was a frequent visitor. Though their paths had diverged, they had recently crossed again through Wilson.
“Mr. Quade,” Serena said, walking over to his desk and placing a small cake. “Thank you for taking care of me these past few weeks. This bakery’s cake is quite popular, so I thought you might enjoy it.”
Her voice trailed off when she noticed Wilson’s peculiar expression. Before she could ask, Jacob burst into laughter. “Wilson, it looks like I’m not the only one who remembered your birthday.”
Serena froze. “Mr. Quade, today is your birthday?”
“Yeah.” Wilson extinguished his cigarette in the ashtray, a faint smile tugging at his lips. “So, Ms. Judd, did you prepare a birthday gift for me?”
She was caught off guard. “Actually, I didn’t know today was your birthday. I’ll make it up to you later.”
“I’m just kidding. It’s fine. I don’t celebrate birthdays.” Wilson picked up the cake.
But the faint melancholy in his voice lingered. Sensing something, Serena didn’t press further. She nodded and left.
Once the door clicked shut, Jacob arched a brow at the cake. ‘Serena’s not bad to you, huh?”
Wilson’s tone carried a hint of smugness. “Of course.”
He opened the cake box, revealing the delicate dessert. Jacob, ever opportunistic, reached for a fork. Wilson’s hand shot out to block him as he was about to dig in.
Jacob was confused by Wilson’s actions.
“If you want cake, buy your own. This is my birthday cake, Wilson said, guarding his food.
Chapter 32
+25 BONU
Jacob was speechless. Wasn’t Wilson the same guy who claimed he didn’t celebrate birthdays?
Wilson worked late into the evening. When he left his office, he was surprised to find Serena still at her desk. He frowned lightly. “Why are you still here?”
“Mr. Quade.” Serena smiled warmly at him. “Since it’s your birthday and I didn’t prepare anything earlier, how about I take you out for dinner?”
He was momentarily taken aback but quickly recovered, his eyes lighting up. “Alright.”
They left Quade Group together. Just as they got into the car, Serena’s phone buzzed. The number was unfamiliar, but she answered it anyway. It was Justin’s voice on the other end.
“Serena,” he said, and just as she was about to hang up, his following words froze her in place. “Grandma’s really. sick. She’s asking to see you.”
Serena’s mind went blank →
