Sebastian leaned in, his expression eager.

"I need your support on this," he said, his voice low and serious.

Benjamin studied him, a flicker of interest in his eyes.

"What's the plan?" he asked.

Sebastian moved closer, whispering the idea into Benjamin's ear.

Benjamin's face immediately showed doubt.

He shook his head. "Are you sure about this? I doubt Alexander will take it well."

But Sebastian was unwavering.

"His opinion doesn't matter. Only Evelyn's approval counts. Don't you want to see Alexander's reaction when he sees the present?"

A slow smile spread across Benjamin's face. The idea was growing on him.

"That would be quite a scene," he admitted.

Sebastian's eyes gleamed with mischief. Benjamin found himself intrigued by the challenge of pushing Alexander's buttons.

They shared a look of understanding.

A conspiratorial bond formed instantly between them.

They began plotting their secret scheme in hushed tones.

Meanwhile, Evelyn was sharing news with Charlotte.

She told her about the upcoming birthday party.

Charlotte looked surprised. "A party? So suddenly?"

Evelyn laughed. "It's Alexander's birthday soon. Since I never knew my own, we decided to celebrate together this year."

Charlotte chuckled. "You two are attached at the hip. I'm starting to feel left out!"

Evelyn quickly hugged her friend.

"Listen," she said playfully. "No matter how close I am with Alexander, you will always be my number one. Propose to me right now, and I'll go home and file for divorce!"

Charlotte laughed and pushed her away gently.

"Remember when you used to follow me everywhere? It was exhausting! I'm finally free. Marry you? Never."

Evelyn put on a dramatically hurt expression.

She clung to Charlotte, pretending to be heartbroken.

Charlotte's face turned serious.

"I heard about the plagiarism accusations. Why didn't you tell me?"

She was clearly upset, having only recently learned about the online attacks.

Charlotte knew how much design meant to Evelyn. The allegations must have been devastating.

Seeing her concern, Evelyn smiled reassuringly.

"I'm fine, really. I stayed home and avoided the internet. I barely saw any of the hate. The issue was resolved quickly anyway. It didn't seem worth mentioning."

She gently patted Charlotte's hand.

"You're always so busy with work. I didn't want to bother you with something small. But I promise, if anything serious happens, you'll be the first to know."

Charlotte still sounded worried. "Just be careful, okay?"

She often worried about Evelyn being too trusting, fearing she could be easily tricked.

Fortunately, Alexander was now there to watch over her.

The two friends talked for hours.

They were still deep in conversation as night fell.

Two days later, at 7 PM sharp, Serenity Oaks was transformed.

The usually quiet estate was now a vibrant celebration.

The garden glowed with warm light.

Beautiful decorations covered every surface.

Birthday banners hung gracefully on the walls.

Sebastian stopped abruptly upon entering.

His eyes widened in shock.

"Whoa," he exclaimed. "Is this really Alexander's house? Or did I walk into the wrong place by mistake?"