Chapter 304
The man's voice was smooth and captivating, each word landing squarely on Selena's heart, gently nudging the tightly closed door of her emotions. In that moment, she realized Everett, that maddening man, was even more assertive and audacious than she'd imagined.
He was determined, advancing steadily, leaving her no room to retreat or escape.
In such a magical setting, with the city lights twinkling, families gathering, and couples everywhere, how could she possibly say no? Even without a word from Selena, Everett's eyes sparkled with a knowing smile; he could see her resolve melting away. Women, just as Jaime's book on charming them suggested, are indeed emotional creatures, especially in certain settings. A little ambiance, a few sweet words, and you're almost guaranteed to win them over.
Selena found herself quietly wrapped in his arms, watching the spectacular fireworks, celebrating their fourth wedding anniversary.
The next morning, sunlight streamed into the bedroom. When Selena awoke, Everett was already off to work, even though it was a holiday. She shrugged on a coat, freshened up, and headed downstairs for breakfast.
As she walked through the living room, she noticed the coffee table overflowing with gifts, with Ava busy sorting them. Ava caught sight of Selena and smiled warmly, "Good morning, ma'am. You're up."
Selena nodded and casually inquired, "Who are all these gifts from?"
During holidays, especially the big ones, people eager to win favor would send gifts, and Selena often had to clear out a large guest room to store them. But even that space was nearly full, with almost three guest rooms packed to the brim. Ava shook her head, "I've already put away those gifts; these are for giving away."
"Giving away?"
Ava's grin widened, "Yes, Mr. Everett asked me to select the finest ones to send to your uncle and brother."
Selena was taken aback.
"Ma'am, Mr. Everett said starting today, you're free to go out whenever you want. Just be cautious since you're expecting."
Ava gestured to the gifts, "Didn't you mention wanting to visit your family for the holiday? Mr. Everett had me prepare these gifts for you to take along."
So that's what it was...
Selena's eyes drifted to the heap of luxurious gifts, and her heart felt a softening.
After breakfast and taking her medicine, Ava helped load the gifts into the car, and the driver took Selena back to Brook's house. She'd already informed her uncle, so when she arrived, Brook was eagerly waiting at the door, like a father awaiting his daughter.
As Selena stepped out of the car, he rushed over, lightly scolding, "You're a mom-to-be now, what are you? doing running around? If you wanted to see Ricky and me, we would've come to you."
His words were scolding, but his face was beaming with joy.
Selena knew him too well and teased, "I brought a trunk full of gifts for you; have someone bring them in."
As expected, Brook's eyes lit up, and he turned back, hollering into the house, "Get out here and help with these gifts!"
He then fussed about the cold and carefully ushered Selena inside, treating her like royalty.
Selena chuckled, "Uncle, I may be pregnant, but I'm not that fragile!"
Brook insisted, "Still, we have to be careful. You worked so hard for this pregnancy; we have to treasure it."