The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 221

Riley’s entire focus was glued to the car. She stared at the rear passenger door, chanting internally, Don't get out, don't get out.

Noticing where she was looking, Franklin clarified, "Mr. St. John isn't here."

Riley let out a massive sigh of relief, offering him an awkward smile. "What did you say just now?"

"It's Mr. St. John's birthday today. Zach is throwing him a private gathering at The Nine Heavens Pavilion tonight. Would you like to come?"

Her immediate instinct was to say no. She still had no idea how to face Sebastian.

But Sebastian had saved her and her daughter's lives. He had helped her immensely, and he adored Alora. He had given Alora incredibly lavish gifts for her birth and one-month milestones.

To blow off his birthday invitation—personally delivered by his assistant—would make her look terribly ungrateful.

That kiss was just an accident. Since she was now based in Statenbury, running into him was inevitable. He obviously hadn't thought twice about it, so acting skittish would only make her look guilty of harboring feelings.

She needed to be poised and mature.

"I'd love to go. Is it a formal banquet?"

She needed to know—if it was a gala, she'd have to scramble for an evening gown.

Franklin shook his head. "No, just a casual get-together with a few close friends."

"Text me the location. I'll head over a little later."

"Absolutely." Franklin pulled out his phone and sent her the address. "The Jinse Private Room. Eight o'clock."

"Got it."

Franklin gave a polite nod and drove off.

Riley rushed upstairs, changed clothes, and immediately left the apartment. Thank goodness it wasn't a formal event requiring full glam, or she never would have made it in time. It was almost six; she only had two hours left to buy a birthday present.

Why hadn't anyone told her sooner? With such short notice, she was at a total loss for what to buy.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify