87. The Birthday Party

87. The Birthday Party
Theodore’s Pov

I stood in the middle of the grand hall, surveying the scene with a mixture of pride and trepidation. The entire space was transformed into a Superman-themed wonderland. Red, blue, and yellow decorations filled the room. Life-sized cutouts of Superman stood sentinel at the entrance, and banners with Asher's name intertwined with the iconic Superman logo hung from the ceiling. I couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety. This was the first time I had planned anything significant for Asher, and it had to be perfect. It needed to be more than just a birthday party; it had to be a celebration worthy of my son.

I had hired the best event planners in town to ensure every detail was flawless. They'd outdone themselves, creating an immersive experience that even an adult would find impressive. There was a station for face painting, a bounce house, and even a mini obstacle course that resembled a superhero training ground. Tables were adorned with Superman-themed plates, cups, and napkins, and a massive cake shaped like the Daily Planet building stood at the center, waiting to be cut.

I watched as Asher ran around with a small group of children, his laughter filling the hall. He was in his element, dressed in his little Superman costume, complete with a cape that billowed behind him as he sped from one activity to another. Seeing him so happy made my heart swell, but a part of me couldn't shake the nerves. What if he didn't like it? What if all this effort was for nothing?

This party was not just for Asher; it was also a statement. Not many people knew I had a son, and the invitations had caused quite a stir among the few who received them. It was news to many, but the reactions had been positive. My partners who had children were here, their little ones providing Asher with a ready-made group of playmates. The event was intimate and private, just as Alina wanted. No office colleagues were invited to avoid prying questions about our private life.

Asher's joy was infectious, but my eyes kept darting to the grand staircase at the far end of the hall. I was impatiently waiting for the love of my life,  to make her appearance. Every moment felt like an eternity as I anticipated her arrival. Then, finally, she appeared at the top of the stairs, and it felt like the world stopped spinning.

She descended the staircase with a grace that left me breathless. She wore a black dress that hugged her in all the right places, shimmering subtly under the soft lights. Even though she had chosen to keep her wig on to maintain her Stacy persona, her beauty was undeniable. I wished, just for tonight, that she could have shed that layer and embraced her true identity. But I understood her reasons, and I couldn't fault her for it. The circumstances were of my making, after all.

As she made her way down, heads turned, eyes following her every step. She had that effect on people—an ethereal presence that commanded attention. I felt a twinge of guilt knowing that our complex situation was largely my doing, but I quickly pushed the thought aside. Tonight was about celebrating Asher and marveling at the beauty before me.

I started to make my way toward her, eager to greet her, to hold her, but before I could reach her, Thea and Elliot intercepted her. My steps faltered as I watched them embrace her. Thea was beaming, her usual vivacious self, but it was Elliot who made my blood boil. He hugged Alina a little too long, his hands lingering on her back in a way that made my fists clench. I knew Alina had insisted on inviting him, and I couldn't say no to her, but that didn't make it any easier to watch. I took a deep breath to keep a hold on my actions and refrain from blowing into his face. 

Despite my jealousy, I knew tonight wasn't the time for conflict. I had to keep my emotions in check, for Asher's sake. I plastered a smile on my face and approached the group, my heart pounding. As I neared, Alina's eyes met mine, and the corners of her mouth lifted in a small smile. It was enough to calm the storm inside me, at least for the moment.

"Happy birthday, Asher!" Thea's voice rang out, snapping me back to the present. Asher came running over, his face lighting up at the sight of the presents in their hands. He thanked them before giving Thea and Elliot a heartwarming hug before taking the presents from their hands. 

"Look, Daddy! More presents!" he exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over.

I ruffled his hair and smiled down at him. "You're a lucky boy, Asher. Make sure you thank everyone properly."

Alina stepped forward, her presence like a soothing balm. She knelt down to Asher's level, her eyes soft and filled with love. "Are you having a good time, sweetie?"

Asher nodded vigorously. "The best time, Mommy! I love it!"

Relief washed over me. The party was a success, and Asher was happy. That's all that mattered. 

"Thank you for this, Theodore," Alina whispered. "It's perfect."

I wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. "Only the best for you and Asher," I replied, my voice barely more than a murmur. She was a little taken aback by my sudden boldness, her head whipping around to see if anyone witnessed it. But I could care less. I wanted everyone to witness the love I had for this woman. She excused herself and left my side when one of my business associates, Mr. Robbinson came to my side to talk about a few future deals. They all think that Stacy-Alina is a different person and that Asher is my son from my ex wife, as much as I hate to say it. 

I immediately missed her warmth as Mr. Robbinson went on with whatever he was saying to which I could hardly pay attention to. Because my eyes were fixed on the woman who was the mother of my child and treating the guests with her lovely smile and graceful manners. She was perfect in every way. Mr Robbinson continued talking but it became utterly hard to concentrate when I saw Elliot asking Alina to join her to the dance floor where a few other couples were dancing. That had me fuming and losing it all.