Later that evening, Ayva carefully hung up the last of her new dresses and lingerie in her wardrobe. She took a step back to admire her newly organized closet. She was about to close the door when the phone on the bedside table rang, shrill in the quiet room.
“Honey…” Ayva called out. “Your phone is ringing.”
The sound of the shower blocked out her voice and Alex couldn’t hear her calling out to him. But his phone wouldn’t stop ringing.
On the third ring, she glanced at the phone and saw it had no caller ID. She wondered who it could be. Since Alex was still in the shower, Ayva picked up his phone, answering with a cheerful "Hello?"
"Hi, is this Mr Alexander Davis residence?" a friendly voice asked on the other end.
"Yes, it is. I'm his wife, Ayva. Alex is in the shower right now. Can I take the message?" Ayva replied.
"My name is Olivia, from The Diamond Atelier. Actually, I was calling to inform Mr Alex that his order is ready for both pickup and delivery.” The attendant replied.
Ayva's curiosity was piqued. "Oh, what's the order?" she asked, walking over to the bed and sitting down.
There was a brief pause before the attendant responded, "A beautiful customized bracelet, ma'am. He designed it himself, and it's truly stunning. He said it had to be special because it is for his anniversary.”
Ayva's heart skipped a beat. Anniversary? Alex hadn't mentioned anything about getting her a gift, let alone a customized bracelet. She could’ve sworn he wasn’t even interested in celebrating with her. She suddenly felt a surge of excitement and love for her thoughtful husband.
"That sounds amazing," Ayva said, trying to sound casual despite her growing excitement. "I'll make sure Alex knows it's ready. Thank you so much for calling!"
"You're welcome, ma'am. We'll have it delivered to your residence by tomorrow afternoon. Would you like me to include a gift box and a card?" the attendant asked.
Ayva thought for a moment before responding, "Yes, that would be lovely. Thank you for offering."
As she hung up the phone, Ayva couldn't help but feel grateful for her husband's thoughtfulness. She couldn't wait to see the bracelet and thank him in person.
She got up from the bed and walked over to the bathroom door, knocking gently. "Alex, honey, you have a message.”
The water turned off, and Alex’s voice called out as he walked out of the bathroom. “What's up?"
“Your phone wouldn’t stop ringing. I think you should call back. It seemed important.” She said as natural as she could.
“Thanks sweetie.” He responded as he walked over to his closet. “My love, I promised my friends I'd meet them at the golf club tomorrow.” Alex explained. "We're going to play a few round and then grab some drinks afterwards.”
"Tomorrow?” Ayva raised an eyebrow. “Our anniversary ceremony is tomorrow evening, Alex.”
Alex nodded, taking her hand in his. "I know, I know. And I promise I'll be home on time. I just need to get this golf game out of the way, and then I'll be all yours for the rest of the evening."
Ayva smiled, understanding in her eyes. “Just make sure you're home by 6 pm, please?”
“I'll be home by 5 pm, just to be safe.” Alex grinned, relieved. “And I'll make it up to you, I promise."
Ayva leaned in and kissed him, a playful glint in her eye.
“Don’t forget to pick up my anniversary gift.” Ayva said teasingly.
Alex's face fell, and he looked sheepish. "Oh, Ayva, my love, I'm so sorry. I completely lost track of time and forgot to get you a gift."
Ayva raised an eyebrow, her expression skeptical. "Forgot? Really?"
Ayva found it hard to believe, especially after what the lady from the jewelry store had told her. But then she just brushed it off, thinking he just wanted to surprise her with it.
Alex nodded, looking genuinely apologetic. "I know it's no excuse, but things have been crazy at work, and it slipped my mind to get you something really special. I promise I'll pick something up on my way back.”
Ayva's expression softened, but her mind was still racing.
“Is he telling the truth? Did he really forget, or is he just trying to cover his tracks?” She couldn’t help but think.
"Hmm, okay," she said, trying to sound nonchalant and convinced. "As long as you get home before the ceremony starts, Alex.”
Alex smiled, relief written all over his face, pulling her into a hug, he said, “I love you, Ayva."
Ayva smiled slightly as she hugged him back, still wondering if he was telling the truth about forgetting her gift. But for now, she was willing to let it go and see what happens tomorrow at the anniversary celebration.
Little did she know that her world was about to be turned upside down in the worst way possible.