Chapter 23 – A Birthday Full of Love

Mariana wasn't expecting anything out of the ordinary on her birthday. Her mind was occupied with classes, system tasks, and her quiet mission to build a new empire while remaining close to George. She had no idea that, behind the scenes, people who loved her were planning something special.

Laura and Stuart had teamed up with Lucia and John Green—and of course, George. The boy had insisted on organizing something meaningful. "She deserves it," he had said firmly. "Like my mom used to."

They had rented a cozy garden space near the city center, filled it with wildflowers from Laura's store, string lights, and soft music. There was cake, of course, and George had even written a little speech with his grandfather's help—though he blushed too hard to read it.

When Mariana arrived, led by a harmless little trick from her mother, she froze at the sight of everyone gathered.

"Happy birthday!" they all called out in unison.

She blinked, then laughed—genuine and free. It had been so long since she felt so seen.

George approached, holding out a small wrapped box. "I helped choose it," he said. "Hope you like it."

She knelt, smiling at him. "That means it's already my favorite."

Inside the box was a silver fountain pen with her initials—M.H.—engraved beside a small bee symbol. Her breath caught. Only George would choose something so simple, yet so filled with meaning.

Later that evening, as they sang and shared stories, Mariana looked around the table. These people—her new parents, George, the Greens—they weren't just part of her second chance.

They were her family.

And as the candlelight flickered in her eyes, she silently made a vow: to protect them, love them, and build something beautiful—just as Mary once dreamed.