359: The Birthday Conspiracy

The hospital room was quiet except for the sound of papers rustling as Emma opened what she initially feared might be another round of corporate warfare laid out in legalese. Instead, she found a detailed birthday plan, orchestrated by none other than the young Francis. Her expression shifted from apprehension to amusement, reflecting the unexpected lightness of the document in her hands. "I know this might be a bit of a shock," Bauer began, his voice tinged with a hint of mischief. "That kid of mine, Francis, he’s always up to something. I told him not to go overboard, but you know how persuasive he can be. Did this scare you?" Emma looked up, her initial surprise melting into a soft smile. "It's more of a surprise than a scare. I didn't expect such an elaborate birthday plan. Francis’s quite the planner, isn’t he? But tell me, Bauer, why go to all this trouble for my birthday?" Bauer shrugged, a light laugh escaping him. "Maybe because someone thinks you deserve a celebrati