Chapter 144: Surprise birthday party
They arrived at a luxurious hotel. Thomas led her confidently to the elevator, which took them to the banquet hall on the top floor. As the elevator doors opened, Ava noticed two impeccably dressed guards stationed at the entrance of the hall. With a courteous nod, they opened the doors wide, gesturing for them to step inside. The hall was dimly lit. Ava hesitated on the threshold, her unease growing as she glanced around. The faint hum of murmured conversations, clinking glasses, and soft music reached her ears, but the faces of the guests were not visible under the dim light. The whole situation gave her a creepy vibe, and she grew uneasy.
She leaned toward her father and asked in a hushed tone, "Are you sure we’re in the right place? This doesn’t feel like a charity gala. Maybe it’s happening somewhere else?"
Thomas simply smiled. "Relax, Ava. We’re exactly where we’re supposed to be." He raised his hands and clapped twice.
Ava looked at him with astonishment. Before she could ask anything further, a spotlight turned on, its beam falling directly on her. The sudden brightness startled her, and she instinctively raised a hand to shield her eyes. As the light bathed her in a radiant glow, voices rang out in unison: "Happy birthday, Ava!"
Guests cheered and clapped enthusiastically while colorful confetti rained down from above. Streamers burst from poppers with joyous cracks, spiraling like vibrant ribbons and cascading over Ava.
Ava stood motionless, overwhelmed by the scene before her. Then, her gaze swept across the room, recognizing familiar faces among the crowd. Her friends beamed at her, their excitement infectious.
Before Ava could fully process what was happening, Lola darted out from the crowd, her arms wide as she enveloped Ava in a warm embrace. "Happy birthday, Ava!" she exclaimed.
Ava returned the hug, her initial shock melting into a dazed smile.
"Happy birthday, Ava," Ethan’s voice cut through the cheers. "I hope you like the surprise."
Ava turned to face him, releasing Lola from her embrace. "You planned this!"