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“You’re very welcome.” Blake’s dark eyes gleamed in amusement and anticipation. “I see you’re entertaining.”
“We are.” Turning his head, he gazed at his wife. “Want to say hi to a few friends before we get going?”
She was still shaky from the potent kiss and had to fight to keep the anger from dying a swift death.
“I suppose.”
Over her head, He winked at his father-in-law.
A frown touched her brow as he guided her along the winding path where lights could be seen shimmering in the trees. Balloons, hundreds of them floated upwards and chairs dotted the pristine lawn.
“Cayden, what…,” her heart fairly jumped inside her chest, and she staggered back when the crowd shouted – “Surprise!” in unison as soon as she rounded the corner. Before she could recover, the live band started playing ‘Happy birthday’ – with a well-known artiste taking the stage to serenade her.
Cayden was highly entertained by the dazed look on her face and drew her against him to whisper in her ear. “Happy birthday, baby.”
She turned to look at him, eyes filled with tears. “You did this?”
“We all did. The family and staff members. It took a hell of a lot to keep it from you.”
“Cayden.” Her throat was thick with tears, but she did not have time to say more as they were suddenly hemmed in by well-wishers who wanted to wish her happy birthday.
Within minutes, she was caught up in the celebration and surrounded by friends she had not seen in a long time. HisItalian family drew her in for hugs and her eyes widened in shock when she noticed several royalties in the crowd.
She fumbled when Prince Francesco Ricci wrapped his arms around her and kissed her full on the mouth. “You do not look a day over twenty.” He said with a grin.
The gifts were piled on a separate table and the babies she thought were asleep were actually wide awake and dressed up for the occasion. But there was another surprise awaiting her.
She was in the middle of talking with the group of wives, when a hush fell over the crowd.
“I think your gorgeous husband is about to make a speech,” Kelly said with a wide smile.
Turning around, she looked towards the stage and saw when he was handed a microphone.
“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, families, friends…” He zeroed in on his Blair. “My wife hates surprises, unless she is the one doing it.” He waited for the laughter to die down. “It seemed only fitting that we celebrate this woman I am in love with. Blair Caruso epitomizes strength and beauty.
She is the strongest woman I know and to me, she is the most beautiful in the entire world. She gave me four babies and against all odds, she made it happen.” His smile was intimate and for her alone.
“We wanted to show her our appreciation, certainly I cannot find the words to express just how much she means to me. We annoy each other and are often at odds, but even when our days are filled with arguments, it is perfect, because I am with her. “His smile came again as he aimed his gaze at her. “Darling, will you come up and join me?”
It took a moment to steady herself. Suddenly Clive was on her right and Conail on her left, escorting her towards the dais.
Moving forward, Cayden took her hand and drew her to his side. “I would like us all to lift our glasses in honor of the woman ofthe hour – my wife, the mother of my children and my heart and soul!”
The end… but wait: