He studied her picture, tilting it this way and that, trying to find the optimal angle for such a pristine face like hers. He’d indulged with the family’s money a little more than he wanted to admit, but if it was for her, he didn’t see the problem. Dangling diamond earrings in front of his eyes, the jeweller moved to show him the next set. 

“Gaudy,” he waved off dismissively, the next set. “Pathetic, disgusting--- these ones,” he stopped short, holding them to eye-level. Oh, these would do perfectly. “Does it have a matching necklace and ring?” He received a nod. Smiling, he handed the card over, gesturing to one of the Carlo’s to come collect it when the contents were in their gift bags. 

He’d rented a small park with an oversized pond for an unforgettable night. A sleek black Rolls Royce to assist them to the area. Enough clothing to fill her wardrobe for months. A lovely gown for her to wear tonight along with a fitted suit tailored to perfection adorning his build. A small gift to himself, but mostly for Aurora’s benefit. He wouldn’t go out looking like a pauper in front of her. No. He’d spoil her, because she deserved to be spoiled. Opening up the door of the vehicle, he held it open for her, a smile adorning his face. A genuine smile at that.

Ahead, lights were strategically strung from side to side, lighting up what the stars were incapable of, but even then, it was a crystal-clear view. The night was a dazzling sky of flickering white hues, each and every star in drop-dead-gorgeous high-definition. A melody of soft jazz echoed quietly throughout, and the mountain of gifts were stacked nearby a table with a small cake atop it. A single candle protruded as the cursive Italian words draped across neatly.

“Buon Compleanno, mi amore.”