I had been by Derrick's side for almost a year. In half a month, it would be my "birthday", so I coaxed him into personally choosing a gift for me.
After my continuous requirements, he finally agreed, with the condition that it couldn't be in Los Angeles, but somewhere farther away where no one would recognize us.
I said, "Sure, since you're going to New York in half a month for a new hotel project, take me with you. I'll accompany you on the business trip and consider it a vacation."
He agreed.
Thus, on the day of my "birthday" half a month later, I wore a high-fashion dress and carried the season's latest handbag in red-soled high heels. I held Derrick's arms and made a grand appearance in Times Square to pick a birthday gift.
Perhaps it was because we were away from the Schmitt Group's base and with a beautiful woman by his side, Derrick was relaxed and carefree. He was dressed in a couple's outfit matching mine, and we showed off our affection publicly, holding hands tightly.
Unexpectedly, Times Square was actually home to photographers with sharp eyes, and they weren't going to let this scene slip by their lenses easily.
Soon, a video of us holding hands was posted on social media.