Evelyn hesitated for a moment before typing a message to Sebastian. "Mr. Hayes?"

His call came through almost immediately.

She stepped out into the hallway for more privacy.

Sebastian's voice held a trace of genuine surprise. "Promotion? What promotion?"

Evelyn felt a flicker of uncertainty. He seemed completely unaware.

She quickly explained her new appointment as head of the design department.

Sebastian let out a soft chuckle. "Evelyn, do you really think I handle such minute details personally?" After a brief silence, she replied, "I suppose not."

He continued, his tone relaxed. "Why doubt yourself? Your talent is obvious. I may not manage the day-to-day, but I'm aware rival firms have been trying to poach you. If we hadn't acted to secure you with a promotion and a raise, we might have lost a valuable asset."

He paused. "HR undoubtedly recognized the same threat. Let's be honest, Evelyn, you've become quite the online celebrity lately."

Evelyn nodded slowly, the explanation making sense. "I see. Thank you for clarifying, Mr. Hayes. My apologies for disturbing you."

"Think nothing of it," Sebastian said warmly. "And please, call me Sebastian. You are Alexander's wife, after all. If you ever need anything, just ask."

"Alright," Evelyn agreed.

"Oh, by the way," Sebastian added casually, "did you know Alexander's birthday is coming up soon?"

Evelyn's interest was instantly captured. "It is?"

She realized she had no idea when his birthday was. Thank goodness Sebastian mentioned it.

Eagerly, she asked, "Do you have any idea what he might like? I want to get him something meaningful."

Sebastian's knowing laugh echoed down the line. "Alexander is notoriously difficult to buy for. How would I know his preferences? But I can say with certainty that he would cherish any gift from you."

After hanging up, Evelyn didn't waste time. She immediately began searching online for the perfect present.

She browsed for what felt like hours, but nothing seemed special enough.

Then, an idea sparked.

Why not bake him a cake herself?

A homemade gift would carry so much more heart.

Her decision was made. She would bake Alexander a rich chocolate cake for his birthday. She felt sure he would love it.

In the days that followed, she settled into her new office and adapted seamlessly to her leadership role.

During her free moments, she secretly watched baking tutorial videos.

The next morning, Evelyn arrived at work early. With no urgent tasks demanding her attention, she resumed the tutorial she hadn't finished the night before.

She had to be discreet. The cake was meant to be a surprise for Alexander. He couldn't find out.

Alexander seemed to be constantly by her side after work lately.

That was why she'd struggled to find time for the tutorials yesterday.

With his birthday approaching fast, she needed to master baking quickly.