Chapter Six: “Happy 18TH Birthday Resena!”

Resena sat on the end of her bed in her new suite. As promised, Julius' contractor had her new suite completed by that Friday. Her new room was exquisite! The walls were the color of teal with gold and cream designs of flowers streaming through. The furniture was a pearl white with diamond incrusted handles. The décor throughout the room were different colors of teal, grey and cream. She had a lovely cream-colored bed bench that matched her dual loveseats and table set; but the most amazing sight was her bed. Resena had a beautiful queen-sized bed with plush topping on a pearl canopy bedframe trimmed in diamonds with teal sheer drapes. Her bedding was teal and cream which also matched the room's décor. Everything was coordinated with such detail and care, Resena could not help but cry when she first arrived. Now, with her eighteenth birthday approaching, Julius was throwing her grand ball. He decided that would be the perfect time to announce their engagement to high society. Resena was beginning to feel nervous, it had been ages since her birthday was celebrated and to also announce the engagement, it all seemed too much for her to bear. That morning, Carla and Sabrina were helping her with dress fittings for the party. 

"Oh, my goodness! You look so beautiful Lady Resena! This color really suits you; don't you think Carla?" 

"I do! This one is most definitely my favorite!" 

Resena had tried on over seven dresses and FINALLY, the ladies found one they truly loved. Because Resena did not know a lot about fashion, especially for a grand ball, she relied on both Carla and Sabrina to pick the best option. Though she didn't know she would have to try on so many before they decided. 

"Are you both sure? So, we can choose this one?" 

The salesclerk Ms. Grace from the store Estrada's was also in the room. Julius requested she come to the home that Wednesday to help Resena pick out a dress for the party. When she arrived, she had two full racks with various styles of dresses, finally, after trying on so many; the ladies all agreed this was the best choice. 

"I have to agree, this dress really brings out the gold in your complexion! You're going to look like a beautiful and mature young woman fit for a king! Shall we look at shoes and accessories now?" 

Just then, Resena stepped down from the stool she was standing on while doing her fitting. She began to feel exhausted. So much energy went into trying on dresses and now she would have to do shoes and accessories, she needed a break. 

"Um, before we begin that process, could we take a break? Maybe have some lunch?" 

Carla smiled an empathetic smile, she of all people knew this was probably a little overwhelming for her mistress. 

"I think that would be perfect! I know this is probably a lot for you Ms. Resena. Why don't you get dressed and I'll call Lawrence and have him prepare some lunch." 

Feeling grateful, Resena let out a huge sigh of relief! She was so happy to have Carla here with her. She was the only one that completely understood what all of this meant to her. 

"Thank you, Carla! That would be wonderful! Ms. Sabrina, Ms. Grace, could you please help me out of this dress?" 

Both, "Of course!" 

After Resena put her clothes back on, all of the ladies made their way to the kitchen, just then, Resena's communicator buzzed, it was Julius! She instantly perked up, she hadn't seen him since early that morning, now that her suite was complete, Resena was now in the West Villa wing, Julius however, was on the north, so at times it would be a while before they saw each other especially if he was at work. 

"Julius! I'm so glad to hear from you!" 

Smiling, "Me as well. How's your fitting going? I trust you were able to find something to your liking?" 

"I was! Carla, Sabrina, and Grace were amazing! We're on our way to the kitchen for some lunch, afterwards, we'll pick out shoes and accessories." 

"I have no doubt you'll be beautiful; I can't wait to see." 

Resena began to blush, maybe it wasn't so bad picking out dresses and shoes after all if it meant Julius liked it. 

"Are you on your way home?" 

"I'm not, that's actually why I called, I'm going to be a little late today, we have a business dinner today with one of my associates from the Country Glendora, so I won't be able to dine with you this evening." 

Though this sadden Resena, she wouldn't make a fuss, after all, Julius was the CEO of a high-tech company. She knew there would be times when he had to work late or entertain business associates. 

"That's alright! I know you have a company to run. Dinner will always be here for the two of us to enjoy together." 

This was one of the things Julius loved so much about Resena, she was always so understanding, if he had to come home late, leave early, work in his study, she was always so understanding. He couldn't wait until this Saturday; he was ready to begin the process of planning their wedding. His plan was to be married to Resena by the beginning of Summer the following year. 

"Smiling, "Alright then dear, I'll see you when I get home this evening." 

"Indeed. Have a great day." 

After lunch, the ladies were able to pick out the shoes and accessories for the dress, luckily, this process went much quicker. 

"Ms. Resena, you are truly going to be the bell of the ball! I cannot wait to see all of it put together! I'll be here at exactly 4:30pm on Saturday afternoon. We want to have enough time to put everything together before the party starts, that way if we must make any last-minute adjustments, we'll have plenty of time!" 

"Perfect. I can't thank you enough for all your time, help, and patience Ms. Grace!" 

"It was my pleasure! Carla, Sabrina, I'll see you ladies this Saturday!" 

Both, "Yes ma'am!" 

Later that evening, Resena decided to sit in the courtyard, the weather was very lovely even with the sun going down. Spring was officially in bloom. Since Julius would be late getting home that night, she decided it would be a good night to enjoy watching the stars. As Resena gazed at the sky, she felt someone touch her shoulder. Startled, Resena jerked around, it was Julius! He had finally returned home after his dinner with his business associates. Though Resena was delighted to see him, she noticed there was something slightly different about him. 

"Good evening, enjoying the courtyard?" 

"Yes, it was so lovely out I thought I'd sit out here for a while and watch the stars." 

Julius looked up at the sky, the stars were bright this night, Resena was right, this was a nice time to sit outside. 

"Hmm, so it is. Mind if I join you?" 

"Y-Yes, of course." 

Resena scooted more to the left to allow more room for Julius to sit, however, when he sat down, she realized he was still extremely close. Still looking at the sky, he began to speak. 

"I designed the layout for this courtyard, did you know that?" 

"I didn't! That's amazing! You did a fantastic job; the courtyard is beautiful!" 

"You think so?" 

As Resena was about to answer, she noticed Julius was now staring directly at her. She wasn't sure why, but this made her feel shy. As his face grew closer, Resena could smell a certain sent on his breath. "Alcohol? Has he been drinking?"  Resena realized she recognized the sent, it was from a liquor called Apple Dim. She'd served it to her uncle a few times. 

"Resena, are you happy here?" 

!!! "Of course I am! Why do you ask?" 

Smiling. "I want to make sure you're happy; your happiness means a lot to me. So, I'm glad to hear it." 

Looking back at the sky, Resena began to speak. 

"Hmm. I keep thinking about how much my life has changed in just a short time since I met you. I keep wondering if I am going to wake up and it'll all be a dream. (Smiling). Sometimes I'm scared to go to sle-…" 

Using his index finger, Julius turned Resena's face to his. There was something different. Was it because he was slightly intoxicated? Resena was not sure, but there seemed to be a fire in Julius' eyes that she had never seen before. 

"I promise you, this isn't a dream, but I want to spend the rest of my life making you feel that exact way." 

Resena began to blush, why was he speaking so passionately? Just then, Julius began to move in closer, in a panic, Resena jumped up. 

"I'm sorry! I think I'm tired now, I'm going to bed. Good night, Julius." 

Resena could barely look him in the eye as she hurried to the back door. Julius sat on the bench a little confused. "What was I getting ready to do? I think I need to go to bed as well." He decided to give her a little time to reach her room before he headed into the house, he wasn't quite sure what he would do if he saw her again that evening. 

The day had finally arrived! Today was Resena's eighteenth birthday, that morning, she had been awakened to the most beautiful and sweetest gesture. Julius had eighteen dozen roses delivered to her room, each dozen a different color. On the final bushel, there was a card that read: 

"My dearest bride to be, today is a most special occasion; not only because it is your birthday, but because I get to announce to the world our engagement! I truly cannot wait to see how beautiful you look, and I trust today will be a most memorable. Yours forever, 

Julius" 

Resena was smiling so hard she could feel her cheeks began to ache! What a beautiful card! Julius was quite the romantic, she would have to make sure she learned everything she could about courting so that she could be equally affectionate! Just then, she heard a knock on her door. It was Carla and Sabrina. 

Both. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY LADY RESENA!" 

Both ladies sang in unison, Carla was especially excited. This would be the first time she was able to celebrate Resena's birthday. She could hardly wait until this evening. Julius hired an outsourced staff for the party to ensure all the staff could attend. Carla and Sabrina had spent the previous day shopping looking for the perfect evening gowns. 

"I can't believe you're eighteen! You're an official woman now! Oh Resena, I'm so proud of you!" 

Carla threw her arms around Resena's neck, she was so excited for her friend and could not wait to see what Julius had planned for this evening. Just then, Sabrina sat on the bed next to Carla. 

"Ok! So, we have a whole day planned for you! The young Master has ordered us to make sure you have a day full of fun and pampering in preparations for your party this evening!" 

"Really?" 

"Yes ma'am! Today, Carla and I are not your ladies' maids, today we are simply your friends!" 

Resena eyes began to water up, she'd already considered both ladies her dearest friends but hearing the excitement from the two overflowed her heart with joy. 

"Aht, aht! None of that! We'll save all tears for this evening! So, up you go! Go wash and get dressed and me and Carla will be back in one hour! We're going to take you to breakfast first!" 

Once both ladies left her room, Resena began to get ready. She was excited about whatever the girls and Julius had planned for her today. Just then, her communicator buzzed, it was Julius. Resena could hardly contain her excitement. 

"Hello!"  

"Happy Birthday. I trust you slept well?" 

Smiling. "I did! And thank you for everything! The roses are lovely!" 

"I'm glad you liked them. I've planned a day for you, Carla, and Sabrina, I want you to have as much fun as you can. Today is very special." 

"Julius, I don't know how to thank you for all of this. You've made this day…well, I haven't felt this good since my parents." 

Julius began to smile; this was the reaction he needed. Hearing her emotions made him feel a way he'd never felt before. It truly was all worth it. 

"We aim to please Ms. Blackwell. Well, I'll leave you to it. Have as much fun as you can with the ladies. I'll see you this evening." 

Resena felt a tinge of sadness, since their night in the courtyard, Resena had not been able to really spend any time with Julius as he was working to close out a merger deal before her birthday. She wanted to see Julius in that moment, but all was well, she would see him soon enough! 

"Thank you again, darling." 

Before he could answer, Resena immediately hung up, "darling", he wasn't sure why, but Julius found himself loving that pet name. Today will be great indeed! 

The first stop on their girl's day was to a breakfast bistro called "The Hatched Egg". Both Carla and Sabrina picked out this location as it was famous for not only it's eggs, but it's different styles of crepes. Julius expressed Resena's love for sweets so the ladies thought she might enjoy it. To their delight, they were right! Resena's eyes grew wide when the waitress brought out her strawberry crepes. 

"Oh wow! This looks delicious!" 

Both Carla and Sabrina laughed as Resena stuffed her face with glee! 

"Julius was right, you do have a sweet tooth." 

As the ladies laughed and ate, Carla began to go through their itinerary for the day. 

"Okay, so after breakfast we're going to a spa! Master Julius booked us an appointment at the Sunflower Palace! I am extremely excited for one! I've been wanting to go here forever! After that, we'll have a light lunch and then head back to mansion so that we can begin getting ready for the party!!!" 

The ladies all began clapping, Resena was beside herself with joy. This was the first time she'd ever had a "girls' day", and it couldn't be more perfect. After breakfast, the girls headed to spa. The Sunflower palace was beautiful! They were greeted by Flora, the spa's manager. 

"Hello! Welcome to the Sunflower Palace! My name is Flora, I'll be your host for today! Now! Which one of you is the birthday girl?" 

Shyly raising her hand, Resena stepped forward.

"I am." 

"Of course! You're absolutely gorgeous! Mr. Spencer has asked me to take special care of you and your friends, so follow me!" 

The ladies followed Flora to a grand room, inside were massaging beds, pedicure chairs, and a sauna. The room smelled divine with fragrances of flowers and honey. 

"Alright! If you ladies would please put on the towels, our masseuses will be in shortly!" 

After the girls changed into their massage towels, three masseuses came into the room, after introducing themselves, the girls each laid on a massaging bed and the masseuse began to work. 

"Umm. This is exactly what I needed. I've been very tense." 

Sabrina crooned as her masseuse began to massage her shoulders. 

"Yeah, this is just fantastic! I feel like it's my birthday too!" 

"Then it's settled! From now on this is going to be all of our birthdays" 

The ladies all began to laugh, Resena was so happy! This day was already the best day she'd ever had, and the party hadn't started yet! After their massages, the ladies sat in the sauna for 30 minutes. Once finished, it was time for their manicures and pedicures, while soaking their feet, one of the waitresses came in and offered them each some wine. 

"Oh yes! By any chance do you all have the tea-berry wines? Today is Resena's birthday so we want to be a little fancy if possible?" 

"Oh! Happy Birthday! And yes, we have a limited selection of the tea-berry! One moment while I bring out that menu!" 

Resena smiled with glee, she'd remembered the tea-berry wines from the first official date her and Julius had! 

"Resena, what are you over there thinking about?" 

Carla caught her in the middle of her remembrance of her date with Julius. 

Smiling. "Oh nothing, I was just thinking how much fun this day has been." 

"Well, it's not over yet! Tonight, we get party!!" 

The girls all began to laugh, this was so soothing. It wasn't until this moment that Resena realized just how much of life she'd missed while living in her aunt house of horrors. No more of that, from now on, she would enjoy life as much as she could! After their spa treatment and light lunch was completed, the girls headed back home, it was now 2:30pm and the hairstylist would be arriving at 3:15, followed by Ms. Grace at 4:30pm. Resena felt so relaxed, she never realized just how tense her body was, all those long walks to the dry cleaners and to stores, this was truly a perfect gift. "How is it he always knows exactly what I need?" Resena smiled as she thought to herself. 

After they arrived back home, the rest of the staff were directing the hired staff for tonight's party. Resena could see Bellman speaking with one of the workers. 

"We'll want the cake to be setup at least 15 minutes before we all sing happy birthday to the young miss, until then, let's keep it chilled. Also, please follow up with our head chef, he's not working this evening, but he does have the menu prepped as we all know what the young miss favorites are." 

"No problem, sir! Leave it to us! We'll make sure her birthday celebration is one to remember!" 

"I trust you will indeed." 

As Resena walked up, Bellman looked over to her and smiled. Over the past few weeks, he and Resena had bonded, he almost felt like a father figure to her. 

"Good afternoon young Miss, I trust you as well as Carla and Sabrina had a great day?" 

"It was amazing!! Thank you!" 

"Wonderful! I just received word your hairstylist Ms. Margo will be here shortly; she'll be meeting you in your suite for this evening's preparations." 

"Then I'll take my leave. Thank you, Bellman." 

"Oh and Ms. Resena, Happy Birthday." 

At that moment, Resena's body once again took over, she dashed to Bellman and gave him a tight hug. It was a happy birthday indeed! 

Margo Lavene was a colorful and flamboyant older woman. Although she was average height and size, she had a huge and vibrant voice as well as personality. She'd spent about 10 minutes examining Resena as well as her attire for the evening. 

"This dress is absolutely gorgeous! Look at the detail in the stitching and this color! Oh, Resena you are truly going to be the bell of the ball! We must give you a hairstyle that matches the energy of this ensemble!" 

"Can you do that?" 

"Can I do that?! Honey! By the time I get finished with you every girl in the country of Lenoria including the princess herself will want to be you!" 

Resena was not sure how true that was, but she was excited just the same. As it the time grew closer to 4:30, Margo was almost finished with Resena's hair, just then, Grace along with Carla and Sabrina walked into the room. 

"Oh, my goodness! Margo, you've done it again! She looks breathtaking." 

Grace stood in front of Resena, her hands close to her chest, she beamed as Margo put the final touches on Resena's hair. 

"Oh wow! She really does! Oh Ms. Resena!" 

Carla's voice began to crack; her eyes swelled with tears; she was beyond elated for her best friend. 

"Do you really like it?" Resena looked up at Carla, she could see her eyes beaming with joy. 

"You look divine." 

"Would you like to see it now? I'm finished." 

Resena looked up at Margo, she suddenly felt nervous, she was anxious to see what everyone else saw. Just then Margo pulled the long mirror over and turned Resena around; she could hardly speak. Resena was speechless, Margo truly had out done herself. Because the gown was off the shoulders, Margo decided an up doo with some hair out in the back would be the best style. She'd given Resena beautiful spiral curls and took a portion up into a pin ponytail. She'd braided the sides to go up into the ponytail and left the back completely out. For the accessories, she'd chose pearl hair pins that she placed around the ponytail like a crown. She then stuck pearl flowers up each of the braids. She left spiral curls on each side of her forehead and placed a pearl hair clip on each side. Resena could hardly believe her eyes, she looked stunning, and she had not even applied her makeup or put on her dress yet. Just then, she could feel her eyes watering up. 

"You better get it out now honey because once we put your makeup on there will be none of that!" 

Just then, all the women began to laugh, this day was truly amazing indeed! Once Margo completed her makeup; she and Grace began to help her get dressed, Carla and Sabrina both went back to their rooms so that they too could begin to get ready. 

"Oh Ms. Resena! You're going to look so beautiful I can't wait to see you tonight!" 

"Yes! Me too! Let's do these girls days more often yes?" 

"Of course!" 

Resena was overly emotional, today had turned out better than she could ever imagine, she felt so grateful for Carla and Sabrina, as well as Margo and Grace. Because of them, she felt beautiful for the first time since she was a child. 

"Alright you too, shoo, shoo! We must finish getting this princess ready!" 

The time was 6:30pm, The party was being held in the grand ballroom in the west villa of the mansion at 7pm. Julius sent Resena a message on her communicator letting her know he was already headed to the ballroom to begin greeting the guest. She could not wait to see him! She'd gone the entire day without seeing him and began to miss him dearly. As she stepped from behind the fitting rack, both Grace and Margo gasp. The dress Resena wore was an olive-green Victorian style dress. The sleeves were long and laced and fell off her shoulders. Margo used a golden glitter makeup for her chest and back area to give off a shimmering glow. The dress was long and fluffed but highlighted her figure. Underneath was a cream-colored laced slip, and her boots were also olive-green with cream colored lace. For her accessories, she wore a beautiful pearl necklace along with matching earrings and a pearl bracelet. Margo used just the right amount of blush for her cheeks to give a lovely rose color along with a shimmering olive colored eye shadow and deep rose lip gloss. As Resena stared at herself in the long mirror, she could not believe it was her. She'd never thought of herself as the most attractive person, but here she stood, beautiful as ever. "I can't cry; I can't cry." Resena kept chanting to herself as she looked at the mirror. 

"Ms. Resena, I have to say, you might be one of the loveliest young women I have ever had the pleasure of dressing. You look absolutely radiant." 

Grace stood with a look filled with pride, she was beyond pleased with the work she'd done. 

"I must second this! Darling! You look gorgeous dear! Simply Gorgeous!" 

Both Grace and Margo also dressed while Resena was getting ready, they both knew they would not have much time to leave and get ready before the party began. 

"Well, the time is now 6:45 and the guests have already begun to arrive. Shall we get you to the ball young princess?" 

Resena smiled; her eyes filled with joy, "Yes! I'm ready!" 

The time was 7:10pm, majority of the guests had already arrived, everyone was curious about who the young woman was that finally stole the heart of Julius Spencer. Talks around town had already begun to circulate that Julius finally accepted a marriage proposal though no one knew her name. There was chatter and whispers throughout the ballroom. 

"I wonder who she is?" 

"She must be very high up for him to have finally got engaged." 

"I heard she's from the imperial city." 

"Well, whoever she is, she must be very special, Mr. Spencer surely went all out for her birthday." 

As the chatters continued and the music played, Bellman finally received notification that Resena was arriving. He walked over to Julius who was speaking with Baron Cole of the city of Sigmore. 

"Well Julius, glad to see you've finally decided to settle down! I can't wait to meet your fiancé." 

"Thank you, Baron, I'm sure you'll be meeting her soon. She's quite the amazing woman." 

Just then, Bellman signaled for Julius. 

"Sir. I've just received word Lady Resena will be entering the ballroom soon." 

"Perfect." 

Julius walked over to the podium near the band, he instructed them to stop playing the music for a moment while he made an announcement. Just then, the crowd of guests turned towards Julius as he began to speak. 

"First, I would like to thank everyone for coming this evening to honor the birthday of my fiancé. I can truly say this has been one of the greatest achievements in my life so far as I'm sure you all will understand in just a few short moments." 

Just then, the grand doors opened and Resena walked nervously in. As she made her way down the middle of the walkway the crowd began to gasp. 

"Oh, my goodness!" 

"Is that really her?!" 

"She's absolutely stunning!" 

"Wait who is she? I've never seen her before!" 

Jarred Taylor, a Marquess from the City of Alington, could hardly believe his eyes. 

"Sheesh! Julius truly knows how to pick em'. She's gorgeous." 

"I'll say! Who is she? I wonder why we've never seen her before?" 

"Maybe she's from one of the other continents?" 

As Resena made her way down the aisle, there was only one face she desperately wanted to see, just then, their eyes finally met for the first time all day. Julius could hardly believe his eyes, Resena looked like a goddess as she made her way down the aisle. How was it she'd managed to look even more radiant than she already had? His face was stunned, Grace and Margo would need special gifts after this, he could hardly believe he was going to spend his life with such a treasure. Finally, Resena made her way to him, smiling he held his hand out, leaned over and whispered, 

"You look amazing. I'm afraid I may not be able to control myself this time." 

Shocked, Resena looked at Julius in a puzzling way. "What did that mean? This time? Was there another time he felt this way?" Resena decided she would ask Julius later, for now, she would enjoy this amazing evening with the person that met the most to her. 

"Happy birthday beautiful. I've wanted to say that to your face all day." 

Blushing, Resena quietly replied,

 "Thank you darling." 

Julius spun Resena around so that she could face the crowd, everyone looked on in both shock and curiosity. The woman that managed to capture Julius Spencer's heart had finally arrived. Smiling with pride, Julius began to speak once again. 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, again I would like to thank you all for coming this evening to celebrate my beautiful fiancé's birthday, please, allow me to introduce you all to Resena Blackwell." 

GASP! GASP! GASP! 

Suddenly, the crowd interrupted in chatter. 

"Did he say Blackwell!" 

"As in Dr. and Mrs. Blackwell of the imperial city?!" 

"My word! I can see it! No wonder she's so beautiful!" 

"Indeed! She looks just like her mother!" 

As the crowd stood in amazement, everyone began to clap, and cheers of congratulations began to erupt! 

"Congratulations!" "Bravo!" "Long live Dr. & Mrs. Blackwell!" 

The crowd began to make their way towards Resena and Julius to give a more proper greeting and well wishes. 

"It's such an honor to meet you, Lady Blackwell! I knew your father!" Adam Lewis, a prominent doctor in the city of Mortin exclaimed. 

"He was truly an amazing man! A gifted hand! Congratulations again! I just know he would be proud!" 

Beaming with pride, Resena responded,

"Thank you for that!"  

Resena reached over and hugged Dr. Lewis, shocked, he smiled and hugged her back. "Well, what do you know looks like she has her mother's personality as well." 

As the guest continued to share their birthday and well wishes, Carla and Sabrina finally made their way to Resena. 

"Oh my god! Look at you!" 

Carla squeaked with joy as she hugged Resena. 

"Resena, you look, oh my gosh. I can't even put it into words!" 

Sabrina beamed like a proud older sister. 

"Thank you, ladies, both so much! I couldn't have pulled this off without you!" 

Just then, Julius chimed in. 

"Yes, Sabrina, Carla, I owe you two a great deal for everything you've done for Resena. This won't go unrewa-…" 

Before Julius could finish his sentence, Carla held up her hand as Sabrina shook her head. Carla began to speak in a tone that suggested she may have been a little upset. 

"Master Julius, please sir, Resena, well, she's special to me and Sabrina. We consider her our dearest friend. I think I speak for both Sabrina and I when I say, it would be an insult to think you owe us anything. (Smiling). Friendship is free after all." 

Julius was stunned, he had not meant to offend the two women, he simply wanted to show his gratitude, but he was elated just the same. Knowing that they truly considered Resena their friend meant a great deal to him, he would have to figure out how to repay them without dishonoring their grace. Smiling at the two women, Julius responded.

"You're absolutely right, my apologies ladies. I thank you both for being such amazing friends to Resena." 

Both Carla and Sabrina blushed, just then Lawrence the estate's head cook walked over and grabbed Resena into a bear hug lifting her slightly off the ground as he spun her around. Finally putting her down he stood back and gasped. 

"Ms. Resena! Happy Birthday! You look beautiful!"

Blushing, Resena began to laugh. 

"Thanks Lawrence!" 

Julius wasn't sure why, but for some reason, he felt a tinge of annoyance hearing Lawrence praise Resena and hug her, "when did they become so close?" He wondered as she continued to laugh. Suddenly, Lawrence turned towards Carla, his eyes gleamed. 

"Carla, wow! You look amazing!" 

"Oh, t-thank you." 

"Mind if I ask you for a dance." 

Carla's face was filled with shock. When she looked over, both Resena and Sabrina were smiling giving cheers. Gleaming back, Carla placed her hand into Lawrence's as they headed towards the dance floor. 

"Well, they got the right idea! Let me go find some young gentleman to twirl with!" 

Resena and Julius began to laugh, just then, she heard a familiar voice say her name. 

"Lady Resena, oh my goodness. Just look at you." 

Resena slowly turned around, it couldn't be! It was just too good to be true! As she finally looked at the person calling her, Resena could not believe her eyes, there before her was Ella! Without a second thought, Resena ran over to her and hugged her tightly, tears flowing down her face. 

"Oh my gosh! Ella! What are you! How are you! What are you doing here!" 

"Oh Ms. Resena, it's so good to see you again! Look at you, all grown up into a beautiful woman! Oh, my goodness!" 

Both women stood there hugging and crying, it had been so long since they saw each other. Stepping back, Ella began to speak. 

"Your fiancé invited me to your special party! I'm so glad I got to come!" 

"How do you know Julius?" Just then, Julius walked up. 

"I actually had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Ella a little while ago. She was kind enough to give me some information regarding your aunt and uncle." 

Resena was still confused, why had he gone to speak with Ella? She would be sure to ask for the details later, but for now, she just wanted to enjoy seeing her long-time friend. After a brief catching up, another familiar voice called out to Resena. It was Mr. and Mrs. Femella. 

"Well look at you! You look absolutely stunning!" 

"Mrs. Femella! Thank you!"

Winking at Resena, Mrs. Femella grinned.

"See, I told you he was a catch!" 

Resena laughed thinking back at that day, who would have thought this was where they would end up. After catching up some more with Ella, Julius walked back over. 

"Oh Resena, we must catch up one of these days! I cannot wait to hear about everything that has happened since I last saw you."

Hugging Ella one more time, Resena quietly replied,

"It's a date."

After thanking Julius one last time, Ella walked back over to her husband. Julius smiled at Resena, the joy in her face was worth 1000 words.

"So, would the birthday girl care to join me in a dance?" 

Beaming, Resena took Julius' hand.

"I'd love too." 

Julius led Resena onto the dance floor as the band began to play a new song. Suddenly the entire floor was covered with dancing, chattering, and people catching up. As the evening went on, Resena found herself speaking to almost every guest. Each one of them had stories about her parents, she loved hearing the impact they had on the country. 

"So Resena, where have you been all this time? I didn't even know Marlow had a daughter!" Martin Hanbor of Hanbor's copper asked.

An overshadowed feeling of gloom suddenly entered Resena's mind. Having to think about her aunt and uncle was something she tried very hard not to do since moving in with Julius. However, she knew it was only a matter of time before she would have to explain where she'd been. Smiling, Resena replied. 

"I actually was staying with my mother's sister Larna and her husband Delvoy Lanster." 

"Larna Lanster is your aunt. Huh, I didn't know that." 

Resena began to feel uncomfortable, just then Julius walked up. 

"Martin, how's business been?" 

"Sir Julius! Business has been great, thank you for asking! The copper business is cutthroat, but we always pull through!" 

"Yes, I've been meaning to setup a meeting with your execs, I was interested in using Hanbor's Copper company for our new devices." 

"I-Is that so! Well! We would love to work with Spencer Tech! I'll have my execs set up a meeting immediately! Thank you!" 

"Absolutely, enjoy your evening, make sure you and your lovely wife get some dancing in." 

"Absolutely! Julius, it's always a pleasure! Lady Resena, it has truly been a remarkable pleasure meeting you this evening. You look so much like your mother!" 

That comment made all the bad emotions Resena was beginning to feel immediately disappear. 

"Thank you so much for that Mr. Hanbor. I truly enjoyed meeting you as well as your wife this evening." 

Julius took Resena by the hand and pulled her close. 

"Sorry about that. I know speaking about them is still uncomfortable." 

Smiling. "It's okay. I'll have to get used to people asking that obvious question." 

"True, but not tonight." 

Julius began to dance with Resena, the music the band played was beautiful, it reminded her of the contemporary music she loved so much. As the night wound down, Julius decided it was a good time to sing happy birthday, but first there was something he needed to do. 

"Excuse me, may I have everyone's attention please." 

Julius stood at the podium, as the crowd made their way to center, the room grew quiet. Julius motioned his hand for Resena to take, as she walked up to him, she had a curious look on her face. What was he about to do? Julius took Resena's hand and began to speak. 

"As the evening begins to close, I wanted to share my deepest gratitude; because of everyone here tonight, my fiancé had an extraordinary evening. I wanted to make sure we all had the chance to sing happy birthday to her and also allow her to share her own thanks. Afterwards, there will be cake served in the courtyard while the fireworks display plays. But first there's something I would like to do." 

Julius began to dig in his pocket, he then pulled out a small box, Resena looked on in confusion. Was this a birthday gift? What exactly was Julius doing? Suddenly, Julius spun Resena to face him and began to speak again. 

"Resena, words cannot express how elated I am to have the honor of marrying you. In the short time I've known you, I've tapped into feelings I never knew I had. I can honestly say I look forward to the future you and I will share, and I'm glad to have everyone bare witness. Now the last time I did this, we were interrupted, so why don't we try again?" 

Resena stood in complete confusion. Try what again? However, before she could ask, Julius began to kneel. The entire crowd began to gasp as he opened the tiny box, inside was a beautiful diamond ring. It was a different one from the ring he had when he'd first tried to propose. This ring had a pink princess cut shaped diamond in the form of a rose with crusted diamonds circled around it. The band was a beautiful platinum. Suddenly it all became clear to Resena what Julius was referring too. He was reproposing! Resena could feel her heart begin to beat at a rapid speed. 

"Resena, they say the foundation of a king lies within his kingdom. Well, I never fancied myself to be a king, but I would feel like pure royalty, if I could have your hand in marriage. Resena Marie Blackwell, would you do me the honor of marrying me?" 

The entire grew silent, a feather would sound like a boulder at this moment. For what felt like an eternity, Resena stood in silence, although they were already engaged, at this very moment, Julius managed to pull off a dream proposal. Finally, without further thought, her mouth began to move. In a soft voice, Resena replied. 

"Yes. Yes Julius, nothing would make me happier. I would love to marry you." 

As Julius placed the ring on her finger, the crowd suddenly went wild with cheers of congratulations and well wishes. Claps erupted throughout the crowd as everyone began to applause. 

"No this is a birthday party!" 

Mr. Green, an oil Tycoon from the imperial city yelled. 

Julius stood back up, his face filled with joy and pride. Staring at Resena, his entire future was so clear. He would cherish this woman for the rest of his life. 

"Well! Everyone, thank you so much for the applause! If you could all now join me in singing happy birthday to my beautiful fiancé." 

As the band began to play the music, the crowd started to sing, 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR RESENA! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!" 

"Bravo!" "Yay!" "Well done!" 

Resena stood with joy and pride, tears swelling up in her eyes, and whereas she told herself she would not cry and ruin her makeup, she felt justified as the tears began to flow. Through a slightly cracked voice, Resena spoke softly. 

"Thank you all so much for coming to celebrate with me this evening. Birthdays haven't exactly been the same since the passing of my parents, it was a time in my life when I thought I may never enjoy them again. Now, thanks to all of you amazing people…and my wonderful fiancé, I can smile one this day once again." 

The silence in the crowd slowly turned into light sobs and loud cheers! Resena's thank you speech moved everyone! Yells of "Your parents would be so proud!" Irrupted throughout! This night had been so magical and Resena would relish it all!

The service waiters announced the cake was ready to be served in courtyard as well as the fireworks display, as the crowd made their way to yard. Julius pulled Resena to the side. Looking at her face, Julius knew he would no longer be brave enough to contain himself, he was filled with unexplained emotions that he had to express. 

"Julius? Are you okay?" 

Without a word further, Julius slowly pulled Resena close to him. With his index finger, he gently lifted her chin. Both Julius and Resena could feel their hearts pounding. After staring at her for what felt like a lifetime, Julius slowly grew closer to Resena's face. As he grew near, both he and she closed their eyes. Julius gently kissed Resena on the lips. She could smell his sweet fragrance as his lips touched hers. Resena's lips felt like velvet as he kissed her, "just a moment longer", he thought as he held her close. Suddenly, Resena could feel his lips pulled away. Afraid to open her eyes, she lowered her head. Julius lifted her chin once more; this time her eyes were opened. Her cheeks were flushed with crimson, her body felt like it was on fire. Julius began to speak. 

"I would say I'm sorry, but I don't want to lie to you. If I offended you however, I…" 

"No! (Smiling). I don't want you to apologize. I-I liked it too." 

Julius smiled down at Resena, "Looks like I need to add cute to her list of qualities". Julius took Resena by the hand and led her to the back entrance of the courtyard. 

"Shall we eat some cake and see the fireworks?" 

"Yes please." 

"Oh, and Resena, Happy Birthday." 

Resena and Julius made their way to the courtyard, the fireworks show had just begun. The waiter walked over and handed each of them a slice of cake. As they began to eat, she watched the fireworks display with excitement. Today would truly be a day she would never forget. "Yes, Happy Birthday indeed."