Page 95 of Valentine’s Billionaire Auction

That was not what I wanted to do. Yes, I could be stubborn, but I was convinced this would make Roman really happy.

“I know, I know,” I said, holding up my hands. “You guys have known him longer than I have. I get it. But hear me out. I’ve talked to him about it—well, sort of—and I really think this could be good for him. Roman works so hard, and he’s done so much for all of us. Don’t you think he deserves a little party? He doesn’t think his birthday is worth celebrating, but I for one, think it is. I’m glad he’s on this earth. I want to celebrate the day he was born.”

They looked unconvinced.

“He’s always so closed off, but I see how much you all care about him. I think this could be a chance to remind him he’s not alone. That he’s still surrounded by people who love him. Yes, he lost the two people that brought him into this world, but he’s still here. He deserves to be celebrated.”

That struck a chord. The murmurs shifted from hesitant to contemplative. Finally, Marilyn spoke up. “He’s pushed us away over the years, Kaira. But you’re right. We do care about him.”

Relief washed over me as the staff began nodding in agreement. One by one, they started sharing ideas. A five-course dinner in the solarium, live music, personalized cocktails, and of course, a birthday cake. There was even talk of dancing and fun party games to lighten the mood.

“Do you think he’ll actually enjoy this?” Marilyn asked. “I’m not going to lie; this makes me very nervous.”

“I think he’ll love it. Even if he pretends not to.”

I was filled with restless energy as I paced back and forth in the dining room, listening as the staff came up with ideas for Roman’s surprise birthday party. They seemed hesitant at first, but as we talked it through, I could see them getting excited about the prospect of celebrating their employer in a way they hadn’t done in years. I could envision the whole thing coming together beautifully.

After figuring out what preparations needed to be made, the staff went back to their duties and I got started with the guest list. I had gotten a single phone number at the dinner with Roman’s friends, and I used it.

I contacted Chloe, who was surprisingly eager to attend. “We’ve been dying to celebrate him,” she said over the phone. “He never lets us.”

“Well, this time, he doesn’t have a choice,” I replied with a grin. “He’s going to love it once it’s thrown for him.”

“I’ll contact some of his friends with the invite,” she said. “People he actually likes.”

I laughed. “You’re a lifesaver.”

After we said our goodbyes, I went on a hunt for Marilyn. I found her in one of the sitting rooms, making a list.

“Marilyn, have you seen Ruby?”

“No, I haven’t.”

“Where would I begin to look for her?”

Marilyn laughed. “Airport, harbor, or Grand Central would be my first guesses.”

I laughed, understanding she was a rambler. “I really want to get her confirmation that she’ll be here for the party. She’s Roman’s only living family. I know her presence would mean something to him. I need to find her.”

“I’ll make some calls,” she said. “I’ll talk to the young lady taking care of her room. She can leave a note at the very least.”

“Thank you, Marilyn. I appreciate it.”

As I got texts from Roman’s friends replying to my invitation, it felt like a small victory. I was on a high, my excitement building with every passing hour. It wasn’t just about the party—it was about Roman. About showing him that, despite everything he’d lost, he still had people in his corner. People who cared about him deeply.

Including me.

I grabbed my new laptop and started doing some shopping for decorations. I wanted classy but maybe a little silly. As I shopped online for party supplies, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nervous anticipation. I wanted this birthday celebration to be perfect for Roman. He deserved to feel loved and appreciated, even if he didn’t know it. I hoped that when he felt the love, he would be happy we went against his birthday ban.

I ended up ordering an elegant floral centerpiece for the dining table, along with some string lights to hang around the room. A few playful decorations like a large “Happy Birthday” banner and colorful balloons added a touch of whimsy. I wanted the atmosphere to feel warm and inviting, a far cry from the formal, solemn vibe that usually permeated the mansion. Roman mentioned he liked the sound of laughter in the house. I couldn’t really buy him anything that he couldn’t buy himself, but I could give him laughter and friendship. I could make him feel more human.

I put in the last order and felt like I accomplished all I could for the day. Marilyn appeared in the doorway. “Kaira, I have some good news. I was able to reach Ruby. She’s thrilled about the party and said she’ll be here. She’ll be back in this hemisphere by then.”

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. “That’s wonderful! I’m so glad she’s able to make it. Roman is going to be so surprised.”

Marilyn nodded, a small smile on her face. “He is. We all know how much it will mean to him, even if he tries to play it off.”

“Exactly. He may act annoyed or dismissive at first, but deep down, I know this will mean the world to him. I’m just glad you all were on board to help make this happen. I couldn’t have done it without your support.”