Accidentally Yours, My Super Rich Second Husband-Chapter 73: Surprise for Friend

The car hummed quietly as it cruised through the city streets. Delphinia sat in the back seat, smoothing out her dress while stealing glances at the large paper bag sitting beside her. It brimmed with colorful party supplies—garlands, balloons, ribbons, party hats, confetti poppers, and even a few noise horns. Valerie was her one and only best friend, and this annual birthday surprise had become their little tradition over the years. Delphinia wouldn’t have it any other way.

In her lap rested a neatly boxed cake she had picked up earlier from Valerie’s favorite bakery. The delicious aroma of vanilla and fresh cream wafted faintly from the box. She smiled to herself, imagining Valerie’s reaction.

The driver, Mr. Andrews, glanced at her through the rearview mirror. "We’re almost there, ma’am," he informed her.

"Thank you, Mr. Andrews," Delphinia replied with a nod. She hesitated for a moment before adding, "Once I’m inside, you can head back. I’ll call a taxi to get home later."

"Very well, ma’am," Mr. Andrews said with a slight smile.

The car came to a smooth stop in front of Valerie’s apartment complex. Delphinia stepped out, carefully grabbing the cake and the party supplies. Balancing them in her arms, she made her way through the familiar entrance and up the elevator to Valerie’s floor.

The apartment building was quiet, except for the low hum of the elevator as she went up. When the doors slid open, she stepped into the hallway. She had walked this path countless times and knew it like the back of her hand.

Stopping in front of Valerie’s door, she placed the party supplies bag carefully on the floor and typed in the passcode Valerie had entrusted her with years ago. The lock beeped, and the door swung open. She retrieved the paper bag and stepped inside, her lips curving into a mischievous smile. Valerie was still at work, which gave her plenty of time to set up the surprise.

Setting the supplies down on the coffee table, she quickly got to work. First, she placed the cake in the fridge, ensuring it stayed fresh. Next, she began decorating the living room. She hung a colorful "Happy Birthday" banner across the wall near the window, its bold letters sparkling under the light. She tied balloons in clusters of three and placed them strategically around the room—by the couch, near the dining table, and next to the TV.

Her fingers worked quickly, taping ribbons to the walls in cheerful, colorful patterns. She scattered confetti over the table and couch, giggling to herself as she imagined Valerie’s reaction. The apartment slowly transformed into a festive wonderland, and Delphinia felt a swell of pride at her work.

By the time she blew up the last balloon and secured it in place, the sun had dipped lower. Valerie would be there soon—it was almost time, so Delphinia retrieved the cake from the fridge and placed it on the coffee table. She found a party hat from the bag, securing it on her head with a grin.

Moments later, she heard the faint beep of the apartment’s passcode being typed. Her heart raced with excitement. She quickly grabbed the cake, crouching behind the couch with one hand on the confetti popper.

The door clicked open, and she peeked out to see Valerie stepping inside, looking tired but content. She carried a tote bag in one hand and a stack of papers in the other.

As Valerie closed the door and turned toward the living room, Delphinia jumped up, popping the confetti with a loud "Surprise!"

Valerie yelped, clutching her chest in shock before breaking into laughter. "Oh my god, Delphie! You nearly gave me a heart attack!"

"Happy birthday!" Delphinia exclaimed, holding the cake out in front of her with a grin.

Valerie’s eyes sparkled as she set down her things and approached. "You really went all out, didn’t you?"

"Of course I did," Delphinia said, feigning offense. "What kind of best friend would I be if I didn’t?"

Valerie chuckled, her lips curving into a warm smile. "You’re amazing, you know that?"

"Don’t act so surprised," Delphinia teased, wrapping her friend in a tight hug. "I’ve done this enough times that you should expect it by now."

Valerie hugged her back, resting her chin on Delphinia’s shoulder. "Still, it means a lot."

Pulling away, Delphinia set the cake on the table and rummaged through the kitchen drawers until she found a lighter. She lit the candles and carefully carried the cake back to Valerie, who stood in front of the table with an expectant smile.

"Make a wish," Delphinia prompted, holding the cake steady.

Valerie closed her eyes briefly, her expression softening as she made her silent wish. When she opened them again, she leaned forward and blew out the candles in one smooth breath.

Delphinia clapped her hands, beaming. "Perfect!"

They sat down together, slicing into the cake and laughing as they reminisced about past birthdays. The room was filled with warmth and the faint hum of music playing from Valerie’s phone.

After a while, Valerie leaned back in her chair, her expression turning thoughtful. "You know," she began, "I thought this year might feel a little different."

Delphinia tilted her head, curious. "Different? How so?"

"Well," Valerie said, twirling her fork between her fingers, "because you’re married now. I thought maybe you wouldn’t have time for our little tradition anymore."

Delphinia rolled her eyes playfully. "Married or not, I’ll always make time for you. Besides, it’s not like I married a jerk."

Valerie smirked, leaning forward. "You sure about that?"

Delphinia laughed, brushing off the teasing. "He’s not a jerk, Valerie. Strict sometimes, maybe. But he gets it."

"I’m just saying, you’re lucky," Valerie said, a grin tugging at her lips.

Delphinia smiled, reaching across the table to squeeze Valerie’s hand. "Enough of that. Today’s about you. Let’s just have fun, okay?"

Valerie nodded, her grin widening. "Okay, girl."

Delphinia realized she could really use a little fun right about now.