Her Hidden Crowns (Suzanne and Austin) novel Chapter 287

A figure stood outside, lurking in the shadows with a camera. They snapped countless photos of them.

By the time dinner wrapped up, two hours had passed.

Yasmine checked the time and noticed it was getting late. She turned to Emma, who was still playing with her Barbie dolls, and said softly, "Sweetie, it's time to go home."

It wasn't often that Austin was home. It was only right to give the couple some time alone.

Emma hugged her dolls tightly and looked up, her big eyes filled with confusion.

"Already?" Though reluctant, she obediently stood up.

Aaron stepped forward and scooped her into his arms.

She was visibly tired compared to earlier. She rested limply against Aaron's shoulder, her tiny arms still clutching her doll.

Suzanne gathered up the rest of the dolls and handed them to Yasmine.

Emma waved her hand at Suzanne. "Bye, Aunt Suzanne."

Her head rested against Aaron's shoulder. Her gaze was unfocused as if she might fall asleep at any second.

Suzanne's heart melted at the sight. She waved back and whispered, "Bye, Emma."

After Yasmine and Aaron left with Emma, the lively atmosphere faded, leaving only Suzanne and Austin in the now-quiet restaurant.

Suzanne turned her gaze to Austin, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "You actually sneaked back. When did you get here?"

If not for everything that had happened today, she would've completely forgotten it was her birthday.

Austin tightened his grip around her hand, his voice warm as he replied, "This afternoon."

He had cleared his entire schedule from afternoon until night just so he could be here for her birthday.

He didn't say much, but the exhaustion in his eyes spoke volumes. He had been pushing himself hard these past few days.

Suzanne shook her head, then reached for the wine, pouring them both a full glass. Turning to him, she said, "Austin, thank you. I'm really happy tonight."

Someone had not only remembered her birthday but was here to celebrate it with her. She had even received a gift. The feeling of being remembered and cherished was beyond wonderful.

Austin noticed the faint flush on her cheeks, and the slight daze in her eyes. She was probably a little tipsy. Gone was the usual coolness in her expression, replaced by a softer and delicate charm.

He picked up his glass and clinked it lightly against hers. He then reached out and took her glass from her.

Suzanne blinked in confusion.

The next moment, Austin lowered his head and downed the entire glass of wine.

Suzanne stared at the now-empty glass in her hand, then looked up at him. The moment their eyes met—his deep, burning gaze locked on hers—her face grew hot.

Maybe it was the alcohol, but her mind felt sluggish. She set the glass down and stood up.

"Let's head home and go to bed," she muttered.