Golden Melody

Chapter 166

Chapter 166

Asha had imagined this day for two years.

Her eighteenth birthday.

A night where she would stand at the center of everything-
admired, celebrated, it will be an unforgettable day.

In her mind, the grand hall in the capital shimmered with golden lights and crystal chandeliers.

International delegates and ambassadors filled the room, their presence marking the importance of the occasion. Influential families had gathered, along with their heirs.

Even well-known celebrities, like Ofreigha Sebastian, would be there.

And at the center of it all-
Asha.

Wearing the most beautiful gown she had ever owned.

Every step she imagined was perfect.

The grand entrance.

The music softened as all eyes turned toward her.

The speeches that would follow.

The admiration.

She even imagined teasing Jayson when he inevitably tried to escape the spotlight.

He would probably hide in a quiet corner, pretending to work on his tablet.

Then the dances.

The traditional eighteen.

Her first would be with her father.

Then Jayson.

Then her classmates-
members of the Judo club, the Literature club-
and finally...
her last dance.
Zatariel.

Her closest friend.

The thought made her smile faintly-
before reality returned.

The celebration in the capital was happening.

Broadcast live.

Grand.

And completely without them.

Asha lowered her gaze slightly.

The day... she had been waiting for... felt... distant.

A gentle tap landed on her shoulder.

"Don't look like that," Marie said softly.

Asha blinked and looked at her.

"That party over there?" Marie continued, tilting her head toward the distant direction of the capital. "That's just for show."

She smiled playfully.
"I prepared a real one."

Before Asha could respond, Marie took her hand and began guiding her across the sand.

"Wait-where are we going?"
Asha asked, slightly confused.

They stopped in front of a structure that shouldn't have existed.

A greenhouse.
Right by the sea.
Built on sand.

Asha frowned.
"How is this even possible?" she asked, looking around in disbelief. "A greenhouse... here?"

Marie only chuckled.
"Trade secret."

Asha pouted slightly but followed anyway.

At the entrance, Jayson was already standing.

He looked... less than enthusiastic.

More like someone who had been dragged there against his will.

Zatariel stood nearby, casually raising a hand in greeting.