Deadly Infatuation

Chapter 5

Lily

As I make it to the end of the song, my emotions get the better of me, and tears spill over, knowing that I will never have a father, daughter dance myself. Paige gives me a soft smile while she dances with her dad among the throng of people on the dance floor, and I can see her own eyes are swimming with tears. I just hope they're happy ones, compared to my bittersweet ones. Despite the ache I feel in my chest, I'm happy that I get to do this precious thing for her. Focusing on the words, I hit the last few notes, and the room instantly erupts into applause. I wipe away my tears and take a bow before exiting the stage. When I make it to the bottom of the stairs, Paige immediately embraces me in a hug. "Lily, that was so beautiful. I'm so grateful you did that for me."

I hiccup. "I'm glad you enjoyed it."

Paige leans back and wipes away another stray tear. "Come on. You need a drink."

She takes hold of my hand and leads me over to the bar in the distance, where my mom is waiting with a glass of white wine for me.

"Here you go, honey," my mom says, passing me it.

"Thanks."

I take two massive gulps, relishing the fruity taste.

"Your dad would have been so proud of you," my mom chokes, fighting back tears herself as she squeezes my shoulder.

"She's right. It was beautiful, Lily."

I give a small smile, feeling slightly better. "Thanks, guys. I know it's strange for him to not be here, but I wanted to give you something special."

"Believe me, you did. I can't wait to return the favor for when you get married."

"Oh God. Please, no singing. I don't think my ears can take it," I joke, covering my hands over my ears.

Paige rolls her eyes. "Hilarious. Anyway, what do you feel like doing now?"

I laugh loudly. "Getting drunk."

"Great! I'll get us some more drinks," she replies before she goes to stand by the bar, waiting for the barman to take her order.

"I think I should get going, dear," my mom says by my side.

"Are you sure? It's only eleven."

"Yes. I need to get back and feed the dogs before I go to bed."

"Okay. I can come over tomorrow for lunch?"

"That sounds lovely."

She envelops me in a hug and kisses the side of my cheek and then goes over to say goodbye to Paige before heading off.

"Here's your drink," Paige announces a minute later.

I quickly down the rest of my first glass, then immediately get started on my second.

"It's a shame your mom had to go."

"Yeah, but now I can really let my hair down." I wink.

Her eyes light up. "Yes, girl!"

She hooks her arm around mine and leads us to the dance floor where most of the guests have now congregated.

"It looks like your mom is having fun," I giggle as I spot her dancing with Max at a slower rhythm compared to the rest of the people dancing.

Paige looks to where her mom is dancing with Max and sighs. "I'm just glad Max has had fun today. He's been having a rough few weeks."

I turn my head to look at her. "How come?"