Chapter 1320
No.1
Servants pushed the heavy, ornate doors open for them. A breathtakingly magnificent hall was revealed.
The entire space was lavishly adorned with countless pink roses. The villa appeared to be completely overtaken by a sea of blossoms. Helium balloons floated gracefully near the vaulted ceilings. It felt like stepping into a dreamlike fairy tale.
Isabella was momentarily stunned by the elaborate decor.
"Please, Ms. Montgomery," Nathaniel said respectfully.
He had been leading but suddenly shifted to walk behind her. Isabella had no choice but to step forward.
Just as they reached the center of the hall, a loud pop! echoed. A massive balloon above their heads burst, showering them with a cascade of delicate flower petals.
Oliver emerged from a nearby floral arrangement, his face beaming with joy. "Mommy! Happy Independence Day!"
His childish voice rang out clearly as he pulled the string on a confetti popper he held.
A shower of colorful ribbons and gold foil flakes rained down upon Isabella.
Standing there, enveloped in the celebration, she felt a surreal grandeur, almost like a wedding ceremony.
She had never experienced such thoughtful treatment since childhood...
Oliver rushed forward, grabbing Isabella's hand. "Mommy, I want a hug! I missed you so, so much!"
"It's only been a few days," Isabella smiled warmly. She bent down and scooped the chubby boy into her arms.
For some inexplicable reason, even though he wasn't her biological child, holding him filled her with a profound sense of maternal love and fulfillment.
Oliver melted into her embrace, wrapping his small arms tightly around her neck. "I miss you every second we're apart! I never want to be separated from you! Never, ever!"
No.2
Forever…
The word caused Isabella's gaze to darken instantly.
Could there ever be a 'forever' with Nathaniel and Oliver?
Probably not. Their fate had been sealed by that incident five years ago...
Noticing her shift in mood, Nathaniel swiftly changed the subject. "Momo, where is the gift you prepared for Mommy?"
"Oh! Right! Here it is!"
Oliver wriggled out of Isabella's arms and darted back to the flower arrangement. He retrieved a pristine white gift box and presented it to her.
"Mommy, this is for you. I spent three whole days and nights designing it. I had people make it special, just in time. I really hope you like it."
A gift? Custom-made for her?
Isabella had thought the stunning decorations were gift enough. Deeply touched, she accepted the box and carefully opened it.
Dozens of vibrant butterflies instantly fluttered out, creating a magical, dreamlike spectacle. And inside the box, revealed amongst the soft lining, was...
Isabella had expected something cute from Oliver.
A dress was the last thing she anticipated.
This gown was utterly unique.
A sleeveless A-line silhouette flowed elegantly.
No.3
Intricate ink brushstrokes formed a misty mountain landscape across the fabric.
The hem dissolved into a deep crimson gradient.
Perched on the bodice was a small, sculpted black phoenix.
The overall effect was dramatic.
Smoky haze seemed to swirl around flames.
The phoenix appeared to be rising from them.
It was breathtaking.
Isabella had never seen anything like it.
No designer had released this piece.
So…
“Momo, you made this for me?”
Nathaniel hesitated briefly before nodding.
“Yes. It’s my gift. For your independence day.
I want you to soar even higher after all this.”
She couldn’t help but ruffle his hair.
No.4
His acting was decent, but a child designing this?
Impossible.
His momentary pause confirmed her suspicion.
Nathaniel designed it.
He had it tailored for her.
He knew she’d refuse it if it came directly from him.
Using Oliver was a clever tactic.
A complex emotion stirred within her.
She decided not to call him out on it.
“I just got out. I need a shower and a change anyway.
This is a perfect gift.”
A flicker of relief shone in Nathaniel’s eyes.
Her acceptance was all that mattered.
“Follow me. I’ll show you the bathroom.”
He turned, leading her down a lavish corridor.
No.5
She had little choice but to follow.
They reached a luxurious bathroom.
The massive tub was already filled.
Rose petals floated on the steamy water.
He’d even drawn her bath?
“Nathaniel, I really…”
“Take your time. I’ll be waiting in the dining room.”
His voice was calm, gentle. He left before she could protest.
She sighed, stepping inside and closing the door.
Sinking into the hot water, her brow furrowed.
His interest was obvious.
Under different circumstances, she might have considered him.
But…
After this, she would tell him the truth.
Make him give up.
No.6
Stop him from wasting his time on her.
Fresh towels and necessities were laid out.
Even delicate underwear.
She dried her hair and slipped into the stunning dress.
A maid was waiting outside.
“Ms. Montgomery, right this way.”
The servant’s deference made her feel like the lady of the manor.
She was led to the dining hall.
She expected a grand, formal affair.
Violinists. Candlelight. Steak.
Instead, the room was quiet, bathed in soft light.
The atmosphere was luxuriously comfortable.
The table was set with simple, homely dishes.
Braised duck. Stewed chicken. Pork knuckles.
Seasonal vegetables. Steamed eggs.
No.7
Oliver and Nathaniel were already seated.
Oliver wore a t-shirt with cartoon cats, looking adorable.
Nathaniel was in relaxed loungewear, a light gray shirt.
He looked effortlessly elegant.
The scene felt instantly welcoming, wrapping Isabella in a comforting sense of belonging.
Nathaniel spotted her and rose immediately, guiding her toward the table. “Mommy, come sit with us. Let’s have dinner.”
Isabella shook off her daze. She followed Oliver to the left side of the long dining table and settled into her chair.
Nathaniel sat directly opposite. “I hope these simple dishes are to your liking,” he offered.
Dominic, standing discreetly outside, nearly groaned. Simple? The entire villa staff had been stretched to their limits!
Nathaniel had planned this menu two days prior. It featured rare ingredients and complex techniques worthy of a three-Michelin-star establishment. The list was exquisite.
He’d even flown in a renowned chef from Paris specifically for the occasion.
But then, just an hour ago, Nathaniel called. He demanded the chef pivot entirely to humble, home-cooked meals.
All the live musicians were promptly sent away.