The renovation went into full swing just three days after the discussion.
Nyla continued as usual with her research and development programs.
Heidi continued her endorsement training with Percy who, in just two weeks was able to recognize most of the people from the company as well as usual clients and business associates of the President.
Weeks passed by in the blink of an eye.
Nyla called Heidi from the local telephone and asked her to come in and see her and Callum.
Heidi knocked and went in as instructed. She greeted the bosses who were sitting on the other side of the couch.
Nyla asked her to sit on the couch opposite them and removed the covering of the small cake at the center table.
It's a 9-inch cake decorated with cherries and strawberries arranged to look like a bouquet.
Nyla inserted a small, slender red and white candle while Callum lit it. They simultaneously greeted her.
"Happy Birthday, Heidi!"
"Thank you so much!" Heidi smiled graciously. She closed her eyes for four seconds and then blew the candle.
"We cannot sing you happy birthday lest it may sound like a song of mourning hahaha!"
Nyla explained why they didn't sing her the usual birthday song. Actually, as a teacher, fortunately, she can sing. However, she cannot expose Callum's weakness. That is, he is tone-deaf.
Callum gently pinched her waist to remind her of her gift.
"Oh! Of course, how can I forget?" She took something from behind her and gave her the diamond necklace Callum bought almost two months ago.
Heidi's eyes went watery when she opened the box and the gold dancing necklace with a small lotus flower pendant sparkled in front of her eyes.
"Wow, for me?" She's laughing but cannot say anything else. She put it on her neck and smiled foolishly like a kid who just got her favorite candy.
"Alright, we received your gratitude. Let's celebrate tonight. You already reserved a box, right?"
"Yes, I did, it's for 15 people. I have a few university classmates and colleagues. Please don't be uncomfortable if they are loud."
"Hey, we're not that old?" Callum laughed.
"No, no.."
Nyla patted Callum's thigh once to stop him from teasing Heidi.
"We know what you mean, sweetie."
Nyla then put the cake back into the box, tied its ribbon, and gave it to Heidi.
"You can eat this with whomever, anyway, we have a ref in the pantry. You can put it there first."
Heidi went out of the office in a very good mood.
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Heidi's birthday celebration was very lively and loud. They rented a karaoke room. The food and drinks are great. The cake was brought as well to be shared with everyone.
Callum brought three imported fruit wines and let the kids enjoy them.
Hanks and Gie were also invited and they got along great with Heidi's friends.
Not long after, Callum received a call.
After a while, Nyla and Callum were the first to leave so the younger ones could enjoy without restraint.
As the night ended, Percy and Gie left together, while Hank took Heidi home.