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“Ah, now that would ruin the surprise, wouldn’t it?” I teased. “You wanna go or not?” I glanced down at my watch. “You’ve got twenty minutes.”
They all looked at each other, curiosity piqued, and then sprang into action.
Esme grabbed Belle’s hand and led her down the hall to pick out a dress, while Ariel, Florian, and Tiana raced to their rooms to get ready. They were yelling at each other across the hall, but Esme and Belle came out a few moments later, still in the clothes they’d worn all day. “Belle wants to know which one of these she should wear?”
“Definitely the one with the flowers,” I said, smiling at Belle’s beaming face.
“Alright, let’s get you dressed,” Esme said, turning her attention back to her sister.
As they disappeared into the bedroom, I felt a thrill race through me and had to tamp down on the impatience. I couldn’t wait to see their faces when they found out the surprise.
Ten minutes later; “Are we almost ready?”
“Nearly!” Tiana’s voice echoed down the hall.
“Good,” I grinned. “Because we’ve got seven minutes and counting.”
Esme stepped into the hallway in a simple, black sheath dress, similar to the blue dress she’d worn for her birthday. Her hair was twisted into a low bun, with soft tendrils framing her face. Walking towards me with her silver heels clicking on the floorboards, she took my breath away. Absolutely floored me, so I was lost for words.
“Is it…is this okay?” Her hand reached up, nervously toying with the diamond necklace I’d given her.
I snapped my mouth shut, forcing my brain into gear. “Perfect, princess. You look perfect.”
She blew out a breath of relief and the smile she gave me had my knees turning to jelly. “Okay, kids! Let’s go!”
Less than two minutes later, I was easing the Merc out of Esme’s driveway and onto the road, the children chattering excitedly in the backseat. Esme sat beside me, trying her best not to pepper me with questions on the drive, but it finally got too much for her. “Come on, Wolfe, can’t you give us a hint?” she pleaded, those blue eyes of hers twinkling with anticipation.
“Ah, but where’s the fun in that?” I winked at her, maintaining a firm grip on the wheel as we approached the private airfield. “You’ll find out soon enough.”
I pulled into the parking area and the kids’ faces pressed against the windows as they caught sight of the sleek, luxurious private jet waiting for us on the tarmac. If their excited screeches were any indication, I’d nailed the surprise so far.
“Wow, is that for us?” Ariel asked, her voice filled with awe.
“Absolutely,” I confirmed, my heart swelling at their reactions.
We all stepped out of the car and made our way towards the aircraft. As we climbed the stairway into the cabin, I stole a glance at Esme. Her face was a mix of amazement and disbelief, and it only fueled my determination to make this night unforgettable.
“Everybody, welcome aboard!” I announced as we entered the luxurious interior of the jet. The kids immediately scattered to check out the inside–from the plush leather seats to the fully stocked bar. The hostess greeted them, allowing the kids to help themselves to cans of soda.
“Okay, everyone, please take a seat. We’ll be taking off shortly!” I instructed.
“Can you at least tell us how long the flight will be?” Esme asked, trying to gain any clue she could.
“Just under two hours,” I replied cryptically, a sly smile playing on my lips.
“Under two hours? So, we’re going somewhere close by,” she mused, tapping her chin thoughtfully as she settled into her seat.
“Maybe, maybe not,” I teased, chuckling at her determined gaze. “You’ll just have to wait and see.”
“Alright, Wolfe,” Esme said playfully, leaning closer to me, her scent washing over me. “I’ll let you keep your secret for now. But just know, I’m going to be guessing the whole time.”
“Wouldn’t expect anything less,” I grinned, my heart racing as her fingers brushed against mine. “Let the games begin.”
“How about we make it extra fun?” Florian eyes sparkled with mischief. “Everyone gets to guess where we’re going, and the one who’s closest wins!”
“Sounds like a fun idea,” I agreed.
“Ooh, I know!” Ariel chimed in. “We’re going to a fancy restaurant in another city, aren’t we?” Her eyes widened with hope, clearly imagining the possibilities.