Chapter 9

The next day was Serena's birthday. Unlike Gloria's grand celebration, she only invited some friends for a house party at the villa, planning to party from noon until late into the night. Around midday, friends started arriving one by one. Chase was still nowhere to be seen. He hadn't even sent a message to anyone else. The friends who came to celebrate were all in high spirits, treating Serena like the star of the show. However, she sat there looking moody, obsessively checking her phone every few minutes. It was already past mealtime. Her friends were starting to notice that Serena seemed to be waiting for someone. Lucian pulled her aside. "Sisi, are you waiting for Chase?" Serena snapped to attention, embarrassed and furious at being called out. She jumped to her feet and announced loudly, "Chef, start serving! Band, start playing! The birthday party officially begins now! Bring out the birthday cake so everyone can have some." She felt a secret surge of anger. So, Chase was