Accidentally Yours, My Super Rich Second Husband-Chapter 196: A Radiant Anticipation

Sunlight filtered through the pale cream curtains, casting a soft glow across the neatly arranged room. The delicate chirping of birds outside the window seemed more melodious than usual, matching the gentle rise and fall of Lydia’s breathing as she slowly stirred awake. Her eyes blinked open, the warm golden hue of the morning light kissing her cheeks. For a moment, she simply lay there, soaking in the rare sense of serenity that washed over her.

It had been a long time since Lydia woke up in such a good mood. No heaviness clouded her heart, no bitter memories lingering in the corners of her mind. Today was different—today felt special.

A faint smile played on her lips as she reached for the phone lying on the bedside table. With a soft swipe, the screen lit up, and her eyes instantly locked onto the online invitation shimmering on the display.

Evander Walton’s Birthday Celebration. The event was today.

Lydia bit her bottom lip, trying to suppress the giddy feeling bubbling inside her chest. She still couldn’t believe she had been invited—Evander had invited her. Well... perhaps it was Delphinia who sent the invitation, but there was no way Evander wouldn’t know. He allowed it. That meant something. At least, to Lydia, it did.

The thought made her heart flutter.

"I really can’t wait..." she murmured, hugging the phone close to her chest before letting out a small giggle.

Without wasting another second, Lydia swung her legs off the bed and padded toward the bathroom. The cool touch of the marble floor beneath her feet sent a pleasant shiver through her. She was determined to look her very best today—not just good, but absolutely stunning.

By the time afternoon rolled around, the entire room was filled with the soft scent of lavender and vanilla. Steam lingered in the air from her shower, curling against the mirrors. Lydia stood in front of the vanity, carefully applying her makeup with delicate precision.

Her slender fingers moved gracefully, blending foundation across her smooth skin. A light pink blush dusted her cheeks, giving her face a subtle rosy glow. She leaned closer to the mirror, lining her eyes with a thin stroke of brown eyeliner that made her hazel eyes appear even warmer. Her lashes curled upward, coated with mascara that made them look long and fluttery.

A soft coral shade tinted her lips, adding just the right touch of color without overpowering her natural beauty.

Satisfied with her makeup, Lydia shifted her attention to her hair. Her fingers combed through her still-damp locks, sectioning them carefully before wrapping strands around a curling iron. Loose, soft waves fell over her shoulders, framing her delicate face. She pinned one side back with a small gold hairpin, letting the rest cascade down in glossy waves.

Once her hair was perfect, Lydia crossed the room to her wardrobe. The green dress hung neatly on the rack, waiting just for this moment. She carefully took it down, her fingers running along the smooth fabric.

It was an elegant midi-length dress made of satin, hugging her slender figure in all the right places. The shade of green was deep—emerald, Evander’s favorite color—shimmering under the light with every subtle movement. The neckline was off-the-shoulder, revealing her graceful collarbones, while the sleeves were long and sheer, giving the dress an ethereal touch.

Slipping into the dress, Lydia stood before the mirror, turning from side to side. A smile tugged at her lips. She looked... beautiful.

"Not bad, Lydia..." she murmured to herself.

As she adjusted her gold earrings, a teasing voice broke through the air.

"Well, well... is that Lydia Morgan? Or did a goddess just descend to grace this world?"

Startled, Lydia spun around, her eyes widening slightly before narrowing in playful suspicion. Standing by the doorway with arms casually folded across his chest was none other than Cedric, a lazy smirk curving his lips.

"How long have you been standing there?" she asked, trying to suppress the grin threatening to break free.

"Long enough to witness you admire yourself like some kind of enchanted princess."

Lydia rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop the soft laugh that escaped her lips. "I should sue you for trespassing."

Cedric’s smirk widened. "Go ahead. But since you’re in such a good mood, I doubt you’d bother."

Lydia chuckled, turning back to the mirror to give her reflection one last once-over. As she gazed at herself, a small thought flickered in her mind. Cedric always praised her whenever they met—always with that teasing grin and playful words. But tonight... tonight she believed him.

She must really look good for Cedric to say it like that. He wouldn’t lie, not about this. The warmth in her chest grew, giving her a little boost of confidence. She adjusted the neckline of her dress and picked up her small clutch purse from the vanity table.

"Are you ready?" Cedric asked, stepping further into the room.

Lydia glanced at him through the mirror. He had dressed up as well—dark slacks, a crisp white shirt, and a navy blazer. His hair was neatly styled, though the mischievous glint in his eyes remained the same.

"I’ve been ready since this morning," Lydia replied, her voice light. "Let’s go."

Lydia turned to face him fully, a small smile playing on her lips. "You look handsome tonight," she added casually.

Cedric raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Oh? I thought you wouldn’t say anything about it," he teased, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

Lydia rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the soft chuckle that escaped her. "Don’t get too full of yourself," she said, shaking her head.

Cedric placed a hand over his heart, feigning offense. "Me? Full of myself? Never."

She shot him a knowing look before stepping past him toward the door. "Come on, let’s go before you start fishing for more compliments," she said, her tone light and playful.

Cedric followed, still grinning. "Well, I wouldn’t mind hearing one or two more..."

Lydia sighed dramatically but couldn’t stop her smile. "Maybe if you behave tonight."

Cedric opened the door for her with a playful flourish. "After you, your highness."

Lydia smirked, swaying past him with a light chuckle. As they made their way out, her heart began to flutter again. Her thoughts drifted ahead to the party, to seeing Ashton... and of course, Evander.

She couldn’t wait.