500 Xander Birthday

Today is Scarlett's last day in this country because she will fly to Norway with her father tomorrow.

Now, she couldn't sleep as she waited until the day changed to congratulate him. It was their first time celebrating his special day together. However, Xander was already fast asleep beside her, making her reluctant to wake him when the time came.

Her husband had been extremely busy lately, with plans to visit several countries on this continent before joining her in Norway.

Initially, Scarlett wanted to celebrate Xander's birthday with a dinner party involving the whole family, but Xander declined. He insisted that she leave for Norway as soon as possible, believing that a faster departure would yield better results. n-/OvElb1n

Scarlett agreed with his reason. So, she could only celebrate his birthday during breakfast tomorrow morning, after which she would immediately board her flight with her father.

"Happy birthday, Xander," Scarlett whispered softly, careful not to disturb him as she leaned in.

Scarlett slowly closed her eyes, assuming Xander had already fallen asleep. To her surprise, she immediately felt Xander's arms wrap around her waist, pulling her closer into his embrace.

"Thank you, babe," Xander replied in a hoarse tone. "Why did you wait until this hour? You should sleep, babe..." he continued his words as he sensed Scarlett shift her body within his arms.

"I just wanted to be the first one to wish you a happy birthday," Scarlett explained, looking up to meet his gaze. "Xander, this is our first time celebrating your birthday together..."

Xander remained silent, a peculiar emotion welling up inside him upon hearing her words. After a brief pause, he spoke again, "It's been a long time since I've heard that. I... stopped celebrating my birthday after my mother passed away."

"I'm sorry if I brought back those memories," Scarlett said softly, her tone filled with sympathy.

"It's okay. I've started to enjoy celebrating my birthday again because from now on, you're the first person to say it," he said, leaning in closer to her and kissing her lips gently.

Xander gazed into her eyes. "I think I should ask for my birthday present now..."

Scarlett was taken aback. "A present? I did prepare one for you. Do you want it now? I can..."

"No, I don't want that present," he replied, pulling her closer. At the same time, his hand slipped under her nightgown and, starting to rise, touched her chest, which surprised Scarlett as she realized what gift he desired.

Scarlett could feel his body heat starting to increase, feeling his touch. She accepted him. She let him touch her most intimate part of body and skin as she took off her nightgown.

***

The next day.

After having breakfast with the family, Scarlett finally bid farewell to everyone. She felt a sense of sadness as she said goodbye to Aunt Martha, Carter, and Zara, who were also returning to W country.

"Scarlett, you must visit us at Cloudfort if you find your mother," Martha embraced Scarlett tightly. "And please, call me whenever you need someone to talk to."

"Yes, sister-in-law, you have to visit us. And you must come to my wedding with Zara," said Carter, who could now stand with the help of a cane.

Standing beside Carter, Zara looked embarrassed when she heard his words. After several months in a relationship with Carter, they decided to get married this year. They plan to get married in Clouford, most likely at the end of the year. And she really hopes when she gets married later, Scarlett will come.

"No worries, brother-in-law, I will come! Just let me know when your wedding is," Scarlett patted Carter's shoulder lightly. She then glanced at Zara and said, "Congratulations, Sister Zara, I'm so happy for you..."

"Thank you, little sister."

"When are you guys coming back?" Scarlett asked Carter.

"We'll be back in a week. I still have one appointment with Dr. Robert, and then we'll all return," Carter explained. "And I'm thankful to you for assigning Zara to your Cloudford office."

...

When Scarlett continued her conversation with Zara and Carter, Xander checked his watch repeatedly while waiting in the car.

After a few more minutes, Xander couldn't help but call her, "Wife, we must go now. Your father is already waiting at the airport."

Scarlett was shocked and quickly got into the car, waving her hand to the others.

"Did Father call you?" Scarlett asked, looking at Xander, who was calmly seated next to her. He looked as handsome as ever in his suit, but Scarlett could clearly see the sadness in his gaze.

"Hmm, he called you a few times, but he said you ignored his call. So, he called me..." Xander chuckled, glancing at Scarlett, who rolled her eyes.

"Father is really impatient," she remarked.

"Yeah, he can't wait to see your mom." He smiles. "Alright, Ms. Riley... I want to hug you..." Xander pulled her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her waist. He feels reluctant to let her go. However, knowing how important this trip was, he had to support her.

"I will miss you so much, Xander!" Scarlett smiled as she fit herself into his arms, inhaling his scent. "I hate this, but—" She couldn't finish her sentence, not wanting to become sad in front of him once more.

"Baby, Me too. But I promise you, I will follow you there as fast as I can," Xander assured her, holding her tightly.

"I know, but we haven't been apart for a long time, and I don't like it."

"Same! But, this is for your mother. I hope you find her soon, babe," Xander said, trying to cheer her up.

"Yes, I hope so. Actually, Rex has started their operation in the last few days. Still, they haven't obtained significant information. Not even a single one." Scarlett added with a faint sigh.

Xander didn't know how to comment on that because he knew how difficult it was to find Rosalie Withers. He simply hugged her and felt the warmth of her body.