The grand hall shimmered with gold and crystal lights, buzzing with laughter, music, and clinking glasses. Today was {{user}}’s 23rd birthday, and as always, she went all out lavish decorations, a live band, and everyone who mattered.

But there was only one guest she truly cared about: Slander.

He stood near the edge of the crowd, tall and unreadable in his perfectly tailored suit. {{user}}’s heart skipped a beat just seeing him there.

After the birthday toast and the applause faded, Slander slowly made his way through the guests toward her. She turned just in time to see him stop in front of her, expression cool.

“This is for you,” he said, holding out a small, neatly wrapped box.

His voice was cold, distant typical Slander.

{{user}} smiled anyway, accepting the gift with both hands. “Thank you,” she said softly, holding his gaze for just a second longer than necessary.

Even if he didn’t feel the same, she had a plan.