Kill With Kindness

8.

A kiss on the cheek as I was blinded from the moment I stood on stage. Knowing not to fidget, to show my nervousness yet I believed it was apparent on my face. It felt like an eternity before the music began to play, a deep breath and the words began to follow. With each and every word I began to calm down, to become more relaxed. Closing my eyes to feel some relief from the harsh lights, as the song continued on, I was bombarded with flashbacks of Cole. The way he treated me for years, the help I needed but couldn't have because of the danger my family would be put through. I pictured growing old with someone, being happy as we laughed at the memories we shared.

I thought I would never have that yet; I had my family here now, and possibly in the future have someone who feels the same. Will you still love me when I'm no longer young and beautiful, I didn't want to let the tears build up, but they did. Thinking about my mom, she met my dad when they were so young and just starting their careers and yet here, we are now. She's gone but I know would be so proud, she was taken too soon, and all my dad has left are Adonis and me. As the song near ended the lights dimmed and for a moment, I could see Liam smiling with his drink in hand as he leaned onto the balcony railing. My family standing as they applauded, thank you and happy birthday Dad.

Returning to the table I gave my dad a hug, sitting next to Lucy at the table while Liam made his way back over. You were wonderful, Lucy whispers over, thank you perhaps you'll sing for Adonis' birthday. She smiled for a moment with a not so happy face, perhaps not, I don't sing I screech apparently. Resulting in Adonis to lean over and confirm that she does in fact, screech.

With Lucy to my left, Adonis, Tom, Liam, and my dad. With Liam directly across from me I knew who it was when my foot glided against his new leather dress shoes, mouthing 'sorry' wasn't ideal but a little surprising when he rubbed my foot back. Dinner was now being served by the wait staff, stuffed ravioli with cheddar broccoli soup. Feeling my mouth begin to salivate I couldn't help but dig into the steaming food. His foot rested against mine the entire time, I couldn't tell if he wasn't aware or was ignoring the fact that one, his foot was against mine. Two, the waitresses leaning over him to "refill" his drink multiple times, only to attempt at exposing her bustier for his attention. Yet his eyes only ever left mine when his dad was making conversation, or he was taking a bite of his food.

When dinner was finished, I excused myself to the restroom, Lucy tagging along. So, what's up Liam seems he's been eyeing you all night? She was only innocently asking yet I felt interrogated, defensive and for what I couldn't explain. We have a business agreement with our dads currently, that's all I can openly discuss. Taking a deep breath, thinking this stress is starting to take a toll; not feeling like I'm able to breathe. I feel a hand rub softly on my back, I know you just met me, and I don't intend to pry but may I say, Adonis and I are very close, and I would like us to be too. I know it'll take time and you must have so much on your plate, but I just want you to know I'm here if you want advice, someone to vent too, or just someone to sit with. I look over to her, thank you Lucy, let's get back out there.

As dessert was being served, I admired the lava cake topped with white chocolate. My teeth biting my lip softly as I waited for the staff team to finish placing everyone's plate. Just as I was about to take a bite my phone buzzed within my clutch, AMY, I had to answer. Excusing myself from the table as I made my way over to the entrance, the concierge standing by for coat and direction assistance. Is everything alright? Yes! I just wanted to call because Will told me what you did for him, and he's flying us right now to Paris! I'll be back in a few days but probably won't be on my phone much! I laughed at her excitement, have a great trip Amy, you deserve it. I'll talk to you soon, I love you. I love you too!