Talented Heiress: A Rose With Thorns

Wilson's black Maybach rolled to a stop at the entrance of Rosarium Manor just as the clock struck midnight. Fireworks illuminated the night sky in a dazzling display, painting the world in vibrant, breathtaking colors.

Wilson took Yvette's hand, intertwining their fingers tightly at that exact moment. His deep, magnetic voice carried a soft tenderness that made her heart skip a beat. "Happy birthday, baby."

Before she could respond, a chorus of voices burst through the night. "Happy birthday, Yvette!"

Stepping into view, Yara, Irwin, Martha, and Jasper emerged, carting a towering nine-tiered cake. Behind them trailed a lively crowd that included Madison, her classmates, old friends, and even Matt and Charlie.

Yvette's closest circle knew she wasn't fond of extravagant parties. So instead of inviting society's elite, they had gathered the people who mattered most to her— family and friends.

"Yvie, happy birthday!" Matt and Charlie beamed as they greeted her.

Madison and her other classmates crowded around her, each offering their heartfelt wishes. One of them chimed in while grinning, "Here's to you, Yvie! May you keep climbing higher in the medical community. Oh and here's wishing you and Mr. Wilson stay blissfully in love forever!"

A warm glow filled Yvette's chest as her lips curved into a smile she couldn't contain.

The word "birthday" was a taboo in Theodore's world—a rule deeply ingrained in Dark Organization. Celebrating birthdays was forbidden, and even uttering the word was strictly off-limits. For years, she had never once dared to acknowledge the day, let alone celebrate it.

She had even forgotten that today was her birthday.

But this year was different. This year, she was surrounded by family, friends, and the man she loved. It was more than she had ever dared to hope for.

Standing a little off to the side, Ellen blinked back the sting in her eyes as she watched the scene unfold. Her heart swelled with quiet joy. Yvette deserved this- every bit of it.

"Alright now, let Jacob crown the birthday princess with the tiara. Then, she can blow out the candles!"

Adam and the other Murray brothers arrived in a hurry, each determined to crown her with their own hands.

"Why does Jacob get to do it? The diamond tiara was my idea, so it should've been me doing the crowning!" Sean protested.

"Seriously? You're the second youngest. Show some respect!" Ashton countered, reaching for the tiara.

As soon as Ashton stretched his arms out, Adam smacked his hand away with a quick, almost reflexive slap.

"Don't even think about it, Ash," Adam warned, his tone light but his intent clear.

lan, ever the diplomat, tried to step

in with a perfectly serious

expression. "To avoid any

unnecessary squabbling and preserve the peace, I'll handle this for Yvie."

His logic might have sounded noble, but everyone knew better.

Yvette's other brothers snorted. "Nice try, but no. Today, I'll be the one putting the tiara on her."

Yet another voice said, "Absolutely not. I'm her favorite brother, so obviously it has to be me!"

"These immature boys," Yara

remarked, shaking her head with

mock disapproval. "Especially

Jacob. You'd think he'd be more

mature at his age, but he's just as childish as the rest of them!"

Though her words sounded critical, the fond smile tugging at her lips betrayed how much she adored seeing her sons dote on their precious sister.

Nancy chuckled, her tone light and amused. "It's only when it comes to Yvie that Jacob shows this playful side. Otherwise, he's all business."

As the laughter settled, a faint buzzing sound broke through the moment. Yvette pulled her phone from her pocket to find a message from Xavier.

"Happy Birthday, Yvie!"

Even though Xavier knew she never celebrated her birthday, he never missed the chance to send a thoughtful gift and a message, year after year.

One of her brothers spoke then. "We planned everything to surprise you at midnight, but we ran a little late-"

Yvette shook her head quickly, cutting him off. "It's perfect. This is already the best birthday I've ever had."

Her words brought a warm silence

over the room, and her brothers

exchanged quiet, determined glances. Each of them silently promised themselves to make her birthday celebration even better next year.

Yara stepped forward with a warm smile, guiding Yvette toward a room. "We've allnoveldrama

put our gifts together in one spot, so it'll be easier for you to open them."

When Yara opened the door, Yvette froze. The entire room was piled high with beautifully wrapped gifts.

Her jaw dropped at the sight.