36 • Gifts

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The next day, the tension from the previous mission had dissipated, replaced by a sense of anticipation. I was planning a surprise for Emily, and for the first time in a while, I felt a lightness in my step. The sun was just rising as Jack and I boarded the helicopter for our trip back to the mainland.

Jack noticed my change in mood and raised an eyebrow. "Feeling better today, Boss?"

I nodded, a small smile playing on my lips. "Yeah. Much better. It's a different kind of mission today."

Jack chuckled. "Shopping for a gift. Never thought I'd see the day."

The helicopter lifted off, and I gazed out the window as the island receded into the distance. The sea sparkled under the morning light, and the mainland slowly came into view. My thoughts drifted to Emily, imagining the look on her face when she saw the surprise I had planned.

We landed smoothly, and I led the way to a sleek black car waiting for us. Jack slipped into the driver's seat, and we set off towards the city. The streets were already bustling with activity, and I felt a surge of excitement as we navigated through the traffic.

"Any idea what you're looking for?" Jack asked, glancing at me.

"Something special," I said, considering my options. "Something that shows her how much she means to me."

Jack nodded thoughtfully. "Jewellery? Maybe something custom-made?"

I pondered that for a moment. "Yeah. Let's start with that."

We parked near a high-end jewellery store and walked inside. The store was elegant, with glass cases displaying an array of sparkling pieces. A well-dressed saleswoman approached us, her smile professional and welcoming.

"Good morning, gentlemen. How can I assist you today?"

"I'm looking for a gift," I smiled, glancing around the store. "Something elegant and simple."

She nodded, leading us to a display case filled with beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and rings. "Is there a particular occasion?"

I hesitated, then decided to be honest. "My girlfriend's birthday. I want something that shows her how much I love her."

The saleswoman's smile softened. "Lovely. We have some exquisite pieces that might be perfect. Please, follow me."

She led us to a section of the store with custom jewellery. I spotted a delicate necklace with a beautiful heart-shaped pendant, encrusted with diamonds. It was simple and elegant, and I knew it was perfect.

"I'll take that one," I said, pointing to the necklace.

The saleswoman's professional demeanor flickered slightly, and she hesitated. "This piece is quite... special. The price is substantial." She glanced at me.

I smiled and pulled out my black card, holding it up. The saleswoman's eyebrows shot up in surprise before she quickly composed herself, bowing in apology. "Of course, sir. Right this way."

Jack chuckled quietly as she wrapped the necklace with utmost care. "Good choice, Boss. She'll love it."

With the necklace secured, we left the store and headed to a high-end designer boutique. I knew Emily would look stunning in a beautiful, sleek black evening dress, so I decided to pick one out for her. The boutique was filled with elegant attire, and my eyes immediately fell on a dress that was perfect: form-fitting, elegant, and sophisticated.

The price tag was more impressive than the necklace, but I didn't flinch. The sales assistant, noticing my interest, approached and began to extol the virtues of the dress. I waved my black card again, and her initial surprise turned into a flurry of activity as she prepared the purchase.

"Two for two," Jack remarked as we left the boutique, the dress bag in hand. "You're on a roll today."

"Just one more stop," I said, feeling a sense of satisfaction. "Wait outside the pharmacy. I'll be quick." Jack grinned, a knowing look in his eyes. "Sure."

I slipped into the pharmacy and quickly found what I was looking for, then paid and joined Jack outside, who raised an eyebrow but didn't comment, just smirked.

With our purchases complete, we grabbed coffees to go from a nearby café and returned to the helicopter. As we lifted off, I couldn't wait to see the look on Emily's face.

The flight back to the island was peaceful, the sound of the helicopter's blades soothing. I glanced at Jack, who seemed relaxed, a smile on his usually stoic face.

As we touched down, I felt a renewed sense of determination. I was ready to make her birthday unforgettable.

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