Shattered Longings Novel

Chapter 99 Happy Birthday

Chapter 99 Happy Birthday

Even though Bella said she was fine, she felt a deep sadness inside. She knew it was time to end things with Dominic.

In the following month, Amber stopped bothering Bella, and Dominic disappeared from her life.

Even though they were in the same city, it felt like they were completely disconnected, each living their own life without any contact.

Felix stayed in touch with Bella from time to time. Since she no longer lived at Miller Manor, he would visit Lia’s studio when he had the chance, and they would chat and eat together.

A little over a month might not seem like much, but Bella felt like so much time had passed.

On her birthday, Bella took time off from work. She had never cared much about her birthday before, but this year, she wanted to celebrate it properly.

She was turning 25 and had known Dominic for 20 years. He had been a big part of her life. Now, she could only pretend that she had arrived in a whirlwind and was leaving calmly.

Lia accidentally told Felix about Bella’s birthday, so instead of a quiet celebration for just the two of them, it became a party for four. Felix came, and Yvonne, hearing it was Bella’s birthday, insisted on joining too.

When the time was right, Lia turned off the lights, and Yvonne told Bella to make a wish, “Hurry up and blow out all the candles in one breath, or your wish won’t come true.”

Bella felt a bit shy but finally closed her eyes and made a wish. She remembered her first birthday at Miller Manor–Richard had made a big deal of it. She had wished back then for Dominic to like her more.

This time, Bella didn’t make a wish. After a bit of pretending, she opened her eyes and blew out the candles in one breath.

As Yvonne cheered and clapped, someone knocked at the door.

Lia opened it and found a delivery guy with a huge bouquet of red roses. Out of breath, he said, “Here you go, miss. It’s pretty heavy, and there’s a gift too. Don’t forget to take it.”

Lia took the flowers and gift box, which nearly covered her small frame. Before she could ask who had sent them, the delivery guy had quickly left.

Lia turned to Felix and asked, “Did you send these? Red roses? You really outdid yourself!”

Felix’s eyes sparkled as he took out a small, fancy box from his pocket. “This is my gift. The flowers aren’t from me.”

Both Lia and Bella were surprised. When they turned on the lights and read the card on the bouquet, Bella felt a mix of emotions.

The flowers were from Dominic. It was the first time in 20 years she had received a birthday gift from him.

The card simply read, “This is the 20th year. Happy birthday.”

The mood shifted noticeably. Bella had Ino interest in opening Dominic’s gift, but Yvonne, ever curious, went ahead and unwrapped it.

Inside was a necklace of such exclusivity that it was almost impossible to find. It was a lavish gift, quintessentially Dominic.

To shift the focus, Bella turned to Felix’s gift. It was a limited edition bracelet.

She slipped it on, letting it glint on her wrist. “It’s lovely. I really appreciate it. Thank you.”

Felix offered a small, genuine smile. “I’m glad you like it. Would you like to try on the necklace?”

Bella shook her head, dismissing the idea. “No need. Let’s cut the cake. After that, I’ll treat everyone to dinner. Since I’m hosting, feel free to choose what you want, but don’t go overboard. My wallet’s not up to it.”