Our love story

3

NADIA FRANCIZEK POV...

"Where are you taking me?" I asked with a chuckle as Skylar secured a blindfold around my eyes.

"Just be patient," she teased.

A door creaked open, and I heard the flick of a light switch. She whispered in my ear to remove the blindfold, and as I did, a chorus of "Surprise!" and "Happy birthday!" erupted from Lucas, Skylar, and Strojek.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I took in the surroundings, and I stepped outside, overcome with emotion. The sign reading "Nad's Foodie" shone brightly, and I felt a lump form in my throat.

Skylar followed me outside, beaming with pride. "Do you like it?" she asked.

I wrapped my arms around her, my voice trembling. "I absolutely love it! Thank you so much; it's incredible."

She pulled back, smiling. "It's your money, after all."

I laughed. "I know, but I'm still grateful."

As we re-entered the restaurant, Strojek approached me with a gift. "I know it's not much, but happy birthday, sis. You're officially over the hill."

I playfully rolled my eyes. "Thanks, and I'm not that old."

Lucas stepped forward next, presenting me with another gift. "Happy birthday."

I thanked him, and Skylar gestured toward the kitchen. "My gift is in there; shall we?"

As we entered the kitchen, I felt my eyes well up again. The space was fully equipped, with "Nad's Foodie" emblazoned on all the utensils and appliances.

"Skylar..." I choked back tears.

She smiled. "All you need to add are tables, chairs, ingredients, and a menu."

I hugged her tightly, my voice shaking. "I'm so grateful; thank you."

Just then, Strojek interrupted, "Time to cut the cake!"

Skylar laughed. "Let's go before he devours it all."

Lucas placed a birthday hat on my head, leading me to the cake. As I prepared to blow out the candles, Skylar reminded me to make a wish. I closed my eyes, reflecting on my desires for the restaurant's success and a loving partner to share it with. With a sigh, I blew out the candles.

"Let's indulge!"

I stayed behind as the rest of them leave, the chairs and tables are already booked and should be here in about a day or two, as with the meal ingredients. All that is left for me is to prepare the menu, and renew the painting in the place. In about a week, the place should be opened.

I put on my jacket and throw my hair into a messy bun, it was late in the afternoon when I lock the door. I was walking along the road when suddenly a car almost hit me from behind, I stood frozen in shock turning around slowly.

My mouth gapes open as he turns his car around, driving off. How dare he!!!. "You bastard!!!" I yelled out in anger.

I was almost ran over on my 30th birthday! Of course, I am allowed to be upset. A reckless driver like him shouldn't be allowed to own a car, or probably go back to driving school. Getting home, I yell out Strojek's name but he was not in the house, well home alone.

It has been almost two weeks since I moved to Nevada, it has been good but also exhausting. I walk into my room with my gifts and rip open the first present which is from Strojek. I chuckled seeing the cute apron and chef hat with Nad's Foodie customized on it. The second present which is from Lucas contains a wireless Bluetooth set, and a waterproof notepad. I feel beyond happy for the presents, they made everything easy for me. Though it will take time to get the place moving like the one I had back in Poland, but at the end, I know it will be worth it.