The Red String Between Us Part II: Frayed Threads

第24章 A Birthday Surprise

      The gentle hum of the jet's engines had become a comforting rhythm as we approached their destination. Kenji turned slightly, catching my gaze.

"Eden... I have one more request," he said quietly, a playful edge in his voice. "I want to blindfold you for landing. Trust me?"

I blinked, heart pounding at the mix of nerves and excitement. "I... okay. I trust you."

He produced a soft, black silk blindfold and gently secured it over my eyes. His hands lingered for a moment longer than necessary, sending a shiver down my spine. "Stay close," he murmured.

I let myself be guided, the sounds of the jet shifting as it descended, the world outside hidden from my view. My anticipation mounted with every second, imagining the surprise he had planned.

Finally, the engines softened as we landed. Kenji's presence remained steady, his hand warm and reassuring as he guided me off the plane. A few cautious steps later, he removed the blindfold.

My breath caught.

Before me stretched a display of roses in the shape of a heart, illuminated by twinkling golden lights. Nestled within the arrangement were the words, "HBD Eden", written delicately in elegant script. My chest tightened, emotions swirling—astonishment, delight, and a thrill that left me momentarily speechless.

Kenji's eyes met mine, a soft smile playing at his lips. "It's a little early, but... happy birthday, Eden. I hope this year will be something truly special for you." he said in his native Japanese language, and in that moment, words felt unnecessary. 

He led me to a waiting, private, blacked-out vehicle. The doors closed, sealing us in, and the car began to glide smoothly away from the airport. I pressed my forehead lightly against the window, watching the landscape transform. Rolling hills gave way to the sparkling turquoise waters of the East China Sea, the sky streaked in shades of pink and orange as the sun began to set.

"The resort is incredible," Kenji said softly, glancing at me. "I thought you'd enjoy the journey as much as the destination."

I could hardly contain my excitement. "It already feels magical," I breathed, feeling the rush of adventure that always seemed to follow him. Palm trees swayed gently along the coastline, and glimpses of private villas and infinity pools came into view, each illuminated with warm lighting that made the entire resort shimmer like a dream.

As the car pulled into the entrance of the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort, I could see why he had chosen this place. White sand stretched along the shoreline, kissed by waves that glittered under the fading sun. Lush tropical gardens framed the expansive lobby, and the scent of saltwater mixed with faint floral notes, a fragrance that somehow felt like freedom and celebration all at once.

I leaned back in my seat, my fingers brushing Kenji's lightly, unable to hide my awe. "This... is incredible," I whispered. "I've never seen anything like it."

He reached out, thumb brushing against my hand. "Only the beginning," he murmured.

My heart raced, a flutter of anticipation and wonder. The night—and my birthday—was just beginning, and I knew that whatever surprises awaited me, this moment, this journey, was already something I would remember forever.