The Memory Of You

“Good morning, sunshine!” Nate’s voice was a soothing melody that danced in Ivy’s ears as she opened her eyes, instantly captivated by the gaze of the most affectionate man on the planet—the one who loved her unconditionally, despite her tantrums and all.

With excitement sparking in her heart, Ivy sat up as Nate, ever the charmer, settled beside her and planted a tender kiss on her forehead. “You look absolutely stunning, just like that unforgettable day we first met at that art exhibition in Paris,” he said, a grin stretching across his handsome face. 

As he placed a delicious tray of breakfast before her, Ivy couldn’t help but beam with gratitude, thanking the universe for gifting her such a sweet husband. “Oh my God, you made breakfast for me…” she gasped, delight bubbling up inside her. “Nate, I don’t think I deserve you; I truly don’t!” 

“Oh, darling, you absolutely do—even more than you realize!” he replied, his voice dripping with warmth. “Dig in, there’s a surprise waiting for you,” he urged, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes.

Her heart raced as she lifted the lid of a dish to discover a gleaming key nestled inside. Her breath caught in her throat. “Nate, what—what is this for?” she stammered, her pulse quickening.

“The key to the house you’ve always wanted in Beverly Hills—” he started, but before he could finish, she erupted with joy. “No way!” she squealed, placing the tray aside and throwing herself into Nate’s arms, tears of happiness welling in her eyes.

“Nate, you didn’t have to worry about this! I can’t believe you remembered!” Ivy choked out, her voice trembling as she cradled her face in his hands.

“It’s just my way of showing gratitude, my love. Thank you for our beautiful twins and the incredible love we’ve had over the past twenty-one years. I couldn’t be happier, baby; you fill every void in my life. Happy 21st anniversary, Ivy Davidson Hart,” he declared, his words wrapping around her heart like a cozy blanket.

With every word, Nate melted her heart, sending tears rolling down her cheeks. Yet, she had her own surprises in store, including a thrilling reservation at Niagara Falls for a weekend getaway to celebrate their love.

“I love you so much, Nate, I really do,” Ivy finally managed to say, her voice thick with emotion. 

“I love you always, my darling. Never forget that,” he responded, his eyes shining with sincerity.

For two glorious decades, he had been the best husband the universe could ever offer. Their love story, which blossomed back in her final year at Stanford University, had endured the test of time, and Nate was her unwavering support through the ups and downs, especially after the tragic loss of her mother.

Ivy and Nate were the epitome of a perfect couple; they displayed true love. With each passing year, Nate continued to surprise Ivy with remarkable gifts, each more extraordinary than the last, elevating their love story to dazzling new heights.

After a delightful morning filled with love and laughter, the couple headed downstairs, where the enchanting aroma of breakfast called. Suddenly, the cheerful chorus of “Happy Anniversary!” erupted, filling the air with warmth and joy.

Ivy's heart swelled as she took in the surprise produced by her thoughtful husband, Nate, her cherished children, and their dedicated employees. With her hands covering her mouth in disbelief, Ivy felt enveloped in love, and Nate was right there beside her, just as elated.

The twins, brimming with excitement, launched into a joyous hug with their parents, while well-wishers continued to sprinkle their affection throughout the room. 

“Come eat with us!” Kendra beckoned, tucking her shiny straight brown hair behind her ear with a playful smile. 

“Why did you guys skip lectures for this?!” Ivy exclaimed teasingly, her curiosity piqued as she strolled to the table.

“We skipped lectures for a very good reason, right, Kenny?” Justin grinned widely.

“That’s so sweet, pookies!” Ivy beamed as Nate graciously pulled out a chair for her. They all settled down, ready to enjoy a sumptuous feast laid out before them.

“Honey, you didn’t tell me our little angels were here!” Ivy exclaimed, still taken aback.

“Well, it wouldn’t have been a surprise otherwise, would it?” Nate teased, his eyes twinkling as he shifted his gaze to the children. “And you both know I’d never let you skip school—not even once,” he added solemnly. “It’s dedication and hard work that—”

“Is the mother of success!” the twins chimed in unison, interrupting him with laughter. 

“Same old old,” Kendra muttered under her breath, eliciting a chuckle from Justin as he reached for his phone.

Just then, Nate’s phone buzzed nonstop, and Ivy placed a comforting hand over his. “Sweetheart, it might be important,” she suggested gently.

“No way, business can wait! We’re having family time!” Nate declared, firmly ignoring the calls. 

“Dad, just put it on DND!” Justin quipped, putting his own phone away and diving into the feast.

“What’s DND? Is that a word?” Nate bantered back.

“It means family time! Gosh, Dad, you're not that old,” Kendra joked, making everyone burst into laughter. “So, Mom, Justin and I have organized something special for you both. Justin, why don’t you tell them?” she prompted, but he shook his head shyly.

“Okay! Justin and I planned a little surprise date for you two. We figured a cozy dinner at Rosy’s Diner followed by a night at Avalon Suite would be perfect!” Kendra announced, her excitement radiating, leaving her parents shortly speechless.

“Oh my gosh, honey! Did you hear that?!” Ivy beamed, showering her kids with gratitude, just as Nate’s phone started ringing again.

With a laugh, Nate excused himself and made his way to the living room. 

Once Ivy noticed all eyes were on Nate, she seized the moment. “Thank you so much, my angels! I’m beyond proud of you both! You’ve outdone yourselves!” she praised, rubbing her kids’ arms affectionately.

“Mom, you deserve everything wonderful in the world. I swear nothing will ever happen to you and Dad—you two are just... amazing!” Justin vowed earnestly.

“Absolutely, you’re the best!” Kendra added with confidence.

Breakfast buzzed with excitement over their anniversary, and Ivy marveled at how time had flown. Wasn’t it just last night she tied the knot? And here they were, celebrating 21 glorious years!

Nate returned shortly, apologizing for his brief absence, but no one seemed to mind. Just ten minutes later, the doorbell rang, and the butler headed to greet their unexpected visitors.

In a delightful twist, Ivy’s best friend and Nate’s brother appeared, followed by the butler, who wheeled in a magnificent cake that could only be described as a work of art. 

“Happy Anniversary, guys!” Lana announced, dashing towards Ivy and enveloping her in a warm embrace, leaving Ivy absolutely shocked.

Meanwhile, Nate’s brother, Alvin, approached with a beautifully wrapped white box adorned with a striking red ribbon. His beaming face was cast with joy as he congratulated the couple.

As Ivy reached out to take the gift, Alvin playfully stopped her with a soft smile. 

“Oh no, is that a death wish, Uncle Vin?” Justin joked, igniting laughter all around, though Alvin only offered a slight grin.

“We’ll find out,” he replied enigmatically, adding an undertone of mystery to the celebration.

He opened the box and pulled out a gun, startling everyone—almost to death. Their hearts dropped into pieces, seeing the sight of it. 

  “Happy Anniversary, guys,” Alvin immediately pulled the trigger before anyone could stop him.