Celine felt her present might disappoint Nathan. She began, “Mr. Lynch, I was in a hurry when I arrived, so I only bought…” She stopped before saying “wallet,” as Nathan had already opened her gift. It wasn't a wallet, but a letter.

Celine was taken aback. “Mr. Lynch, did Ms. Angel give you a letter? Quickly! Read it aloud for all of us to hear.”

Nathan held the letter. “Mr. Lynch, today is your birthday, and I wanted to give you a special gift. To be honest, from the first time I saw you, I fell in love. This is why I’m officially agreeing to be your partner and girlfriend.”

Celine was speechless. She hadn't written this letter. Her present had been switched; the last person to handle her gift bag was Benjamin. She looked up at him; a wicked smile confirmed her suspicions. Carly also smiled, revealing her complicity. After all, Benjamin was very obedient to Carly.

So, Carly had orchestrated this for Celine's birthday party.

Everyone was ecstatic. “Mr. Lynch, Ms. Angel has given you a love letter for your birthday!” “Looks like Mr. Lynch is no longer single! Congratulations!” The congratulations echoed around the room.

“Celine,” Nathan said, happily surprised. “You’re really agreeing to be my girlfriend?”

Celine felt embarrassed. She pulled Nathan aside to explain quietly, “Mr. Lynch, you’ve misunderstood. I didn’t write this letter…” Nathan moved his lips close to Celine’s ear, appearing to whisper lovingly.

Celine was stunned. He knew? “Then you…”

Nathan winked. “Celine, it’s my birthday. You don’t want to embarrass me in front of everyone, do you? If you reject me, they’ll laugh forever. Celine, let’s make this a fake relationship.”

A fake relationship with Nathan? Celine didn't want to give him false hope, as that wouldn't be fair. Nathan had always been respectful, even while courting her, causing her no discomfort. He had also been very kind to her—a rarity she treasured. Given the circumstances and the pressure of the crowd, she agreed.

Nathan's eyes lit up. He pulled Celine into a hug. “Celine, thanks for the birthday present. I really love it.”

Everyone clapped. “Mr. Lynch has a girlfriend!”

Amid the excitement, Adam watched them from the sofa, his expression devoid of joy.