Lila’s POV
I opened the velvet jewelry case and couldn’t help but smile. My father never failed to impress when it came to his gifts. Inside lay an exquisite gold bracelet adorned with blood-red rubies and brilliant diamonds. Delicate golden hearts studded with diamonds formed the chain’s foundation, while perfectly cut heart-shaped rubies nestled between each link. The craftsmanship was breathtaking, luxurious yet refined. The accompanying card moved me deeply. My father had written about his profound love for me, his overwhelming pride, and promised his unwavering protection regardless of which path I chose in the dangerous world we inhabited.
"Your father possesses incredible talent and impeccable taste, Lila. This piece is absolutely magnificent. Does he accept private commissions from other families?" Jude’s question made me laugh, knowing how territorial the Sullivan family artisans were about their exclusive creations.
"Never. He only designs pieces for me. Beckett mentioned he used to create these for his first wife, my father’s beloved Alice. He would design special pieces and have them crafted by the family’s most trusted jewelers for significant occasions. He never did anything like this for my mother. But he does this for me, every birthday without fail. This makes many pieces in my private collection."
"That’s extraordinary! I’d love to examine the others sometime."
"Come to my place and I’ll show you the entire vault."
"Lila, that collection of yours should be secured in the family’s private bank immediately," Jude warned, his concern entirely legitimate given the volatile nature of our world.
"I’ve considered that, but I’m not entirely familiar with the security protocols."
"Just contact Peyton at the Thorne financial division. I’m certain Daniel would escort you and your jewelry to the secure facility personally."
"I’ll arrange that early next week. I couldn’t bear to lose these irreplaceable pieces."
Following Jude’s sound advice, I contacted the manager who assured me everything would be prepared when I arrived. The thought of my precious collection being properly secured in a facility protected by armed guards and advanced surveillance brought immense relief. For today though, I would proudly wear my newest treasure.
Throughout the afternoon, calls poured in from my father, my older brother Beckett, and Katarina. Every year, they were the only ones who remembered my birthday without fail. My paternal grandparents, who had been pillars of the Sullivan family’s old guard, used to remember as well before they passed on. This year felt remarkably different though. I had genuine friends who cared about me and a formidable boyfriend who had made my day truly extraordinary.
"Beautiful little one!" Daniel embraced me tightly as I emerged from the Thorne building. "How was your special day?"
"Absolutely wonderful! Look at all the presents everyone sent!" The packages were so numerous that a security guard had to assist in carrying everything to Daniel’s armored vehicle.
"You deserve much more than this." Daniel opened the reinforced trunk and helped secure all the packages inside.
"What about this jewelry case and the flowers—aren’t you storing them in here?" he asked, noticing I was still clutching the roses he’d sent and the precious box from my father.
"No, these are far too special. They’re staying with me." Daniel laughed warmly, opened the passenger door, lifted me effortlessly in his powerful arms, and placed me inside the leather seat.
"You’re the truly special one, little one." He kissed me tenderly before walking around to take his place behind the wheel of the bulletproof sedan.
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