Just then, a message popped up from my best friend, Haven.

"Gabriella, I’ve got a secret to spill.

Kylian is planning to pop the question! On your birthday, no less.

He’s already reserved the venue and told us to keep it under wraps. Isn’t it just the most romantic thing?"

Noticing I hadn’t replied, she sent another text: "Where are you, where are you?

Honey, aren’t you surprised and over the moon?"

I replied: "No, actually, it’s a bit of a letdown."

Baffled, she asked: "What? What’s going on?"

"Kylian is cheating."

In a flash, Haven’s call came through. I picked up, and she hissed: "Kylian, that no-good jerk!"

---

We sat in my favorite café, sipping cappuccinos. The rich aroma surrounded us as Haven did her best to console me.

"I just can't believe him! We spent so much time talking about your future together. It's like finding out Santa Claus isn't real."

I sighed, gazing at the vibrant autumn leaves decorating the streets. Thanksgiving was on the horizon, and the chilly air seemed to reflect my mood.

Haven leaned closer, her vintage dress rustling as she moved. "Do you want me to be with you on your birthday? We can plan something else instead."

I shook my head, finding some comfort in the idea of a quiet night at home, bundled up in a cozy sweater with a novel by the fireplace.

"I'll be okay," I said, managing a weak smile. "Besides, the Alps are calling. A trip might be just the escape I need."

Haven nodded understandingly, reminding me of our past adventures. "And don’t forget, there's an online sale. Some retail therapy might do the trick."

As we continued to discuss our plans, my phone buzzed with messages from WhatsApp, each one a reminder of the changing landscape of my life.

After collecting my thoughts, I picked up the USB drive and stepped out the door. Since my car was at the shop for repairs, I decided to call a cab to reach Kylian's office.

When I handed him the USB drive, I had to act as if everything was perfectly normal—even though it was more difficult than I had anticipated.

Just as I was about to leave, Kylian suddenly grasped my hand, his expression warm and affectionate. "It's wonderful to have you here, sweetheart," he said.

At that moment, his colleague, Palmer, happened to pass by and, with a mischievous grin, quipped, "Are we spreading the love today?"

I discreetly withdrew my hand and mustered a smile. "I have plans to go shopping with Haven," I said, trying to stay composed. "I should be heading out."

Kylian nodded slightly and playfully tousled my hair with a smile. "Off you go," he said.

In the café.

After I finished speaking, Haven's face clearly showed her desire to tear him apart. "Kylian, that jerk," she muttered, jabbing her fork into her spiced honey cake with uncharacteristic fierceness, channeling her frustration into the dessert.

She looked up at me, eyes searching. "Gabriella, what's your plan?"

I gazed out the window for a moment, watching the bustling streets filled with people going about their day. Finally, I spoke slowly, "I want to pull off a little surprise for him on my birthday."

Haven's face brightened instantly, and she slapped the table with enthusiasm, her voice brimming with energy. "Fantastic! I'm totally on board. Just let me know what you need, and I'll lend a hand."

I went over my plan with her, laying out every step. She nodded along, completely engaged with my ideas.

At the end, she added with determination, "Gabriella, count on me. Once we wrap this up, let's head to the Alps for a vacation." Her eyes sparkled with hope as she looked at me, eager to lift my spirits.

Meeting her gaze, a smile gradually spread across my face. "Deal!"