Sarah felt a searing pang of guilt as she watched her daughter’s lower lip tremble. She caught the eye of the head butler, standing somberly by the arched doorway, and gave a sharp, meaningful nod. Within moments, the butler returned, struggling slightly under the weight of a massive, rectangular crate. "Young Mistress, the Master had this delivered earlier. Where would you like the birthday surprise placed?"
The effect was instantaneous. Bella’s tears vanished, replaced by wide-eyed wonder. Her small hands gripped the fabric of Sarah's dress. "A surprise? From Daddy?"
Sarah managed a fragile, encouraging smile, her heart heavy with the lie she had orchestrated to protect the child's heart. "Shall we open it together and see what Daddy picked out for his favorite girl?"
"Yes!" Bella squ
