Enigma of Love

Promise of Forever

River

Sitting at my desk, I glanced at the clock on the wall. Time seemed to be moving slower today, each tick of the second hand amplifying my nervous anticipation. It was our one-year anniversary, and I wanted everything to be perfect for Arden. She deserved nothing less.

Maxwell, my new assistant, stood by my desk, reviewing the list of tasks for the day. He had proven to be efficient and reliable, a breath of fresh air after the chaos with Jane. Still, my anxiety today had little to do with work and everything to do with the plans I was putting into motion for tonight.

"Okay, Maxwell," I said, trying to focus. "Make sure the reservation at Le Jardin is confirmed, and double-check that the flowers will be delivered on time."

Maxwell nodded, jotting down notes. "Everything is set, Mr. Stone. The reservation is confirmed, the flowers will be delivered by 5 PM, and the gift has been prepared just as you requested."

I nodded, feeling a little of the tension ease. "Thanks, Maxwell. I appreciate it."

Just then, the door to my office swung open, and Kade and Cole walked in, both grinning like they were in on some private joke.

"Hey, River," Kade said, taking the seat in the chair opposite my desk. "Nervous much?"

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn't help but smile. "You have no idea. I want tonight to be perfect."

Cole leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. "It will be, man. You've thought of everything. Arden's going to love it."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "I hope so. She's been my rock this past year, and I just want to show her how much she means to me."

Kade gave me a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You've got this, River. Besides, it's not about the fancy dinner or the gifts. It's about you two being together."

I nodded, knowing he was right. But still, I wanted to create a special memory for Arden. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate the support."

Maxwell cleared his throat, drawing my attention back to him. "Mr. Stone, if there's nothing else, I'll continue with the rest of the day's tasks."

"Thanks, Maxwell. That'll be all for now," I said, watching him leave before turning back to my friends. "So, everything's set for tonight. I've got the dinner, the flowers, and the gift. Now I just need to get through the rest of the day without losing my mind."

Cole laughed. "You'll be fine. Just think about how happy Arden will be."

After a moment, Kade's eyes followed Maxwell out of the office. "Maxwell's quite the assistant, huh? Seems like he's really on top of things."

I chuckled, sensing where this was going. "You could say that. He's been a lifesaver."

Kade leaned in, a sly grin spreading across his face. "I'm noticing too more than just his efficiency."

Cole jumped in, grinning widely. "Yeah, Kade, something you want to share with the class? You seem pretty interested in Maxwell."

Kade held up his hands defensively, laughing. "Hey, he's impressive. I'm just saying."

I smirked, leaning back in my chair. "Sure, sure. Just keep it professional, Kade. Mixing business with pleasure never ends well."

Cole nodded, still grinning. "Yeah, we don't need any more office drama. We've had our fill with Jane."

Kade rolled his eyes, but he was smiling. "Alright, alright. I get it. I'll behave."

We all laughed, the light-hearted banter easing some of the tension I felt. "Thanks, guys. Seriously. Tonight's going to be perfect. I just know it."