Serena’s POV
I checked the time nervously, smoothing down my navy silk dress as I entered The Pierre's elegant restaurant. The maître d' guided me to a quiet corner table where Cedric was already waiting, his familiar smile widening as he spotted me.
"Serena," he said, standing to greet me with a warm embrace. His eyes traveled appreciatively over my appearance. "It's been far too long."
I smiled, feeling a strange mix of nostalgia and awkwardness. "Indeed it has. I don't think I even saw you during my last London trip."
Something flickered in his expression. "Your birthday celebration, yes." He lowered his gaze briefly. "I was actually there, but..."
I remembered then—the night Ryan had surprised everyone with his dramatic proposal. The night that had changed everything.
