As Brian and Lisa arrived at the party, they saw the vibrant decorations. The party was in full swing. The lively atmosphere and the soft hum of music in the background. Guests mingled, laughter and cheerful chatter filling the air.
The centerpiece of the room, was a grand birthday cake, decorated with intricate blue and silver designs, matching the theme of her vibrant dress. Sophia, glowing with happiness, was surrounded by her friends chatting with other guests.
Brian and Lisa made their entrance, and Sophia's eyes lit up when she saw Brian. She hurried over, then noticed Lisa standing beside him. Her smile faltered slightly.
"Lisa! I'm so glad you guys could make it!" Sophia said, her voice was a mix of enthusiasm and a hint of coolness.
"Wouldn't miss it," Brian said, giving her a warm hug: "Everything looks amazing."
They greeted each other, Lisa added, "You look stunning."
Sophia beamed, her cheeks flushed with joy: "Thank you, Lisa! You look incredible too. You have a nice taste."
Lisa's smile widened as she glanced at Brian: "Well, credit goes to Brian. He picked this dress out especially for me."
Sophia's smile tightened, her eyes flickering with a hint of envy. She managed to keep her tone even: "Yeah, that's right. You've got a nice taste Brian."
Brian smiled then handed Sophia a gift box, his gesture meant to add a touch of warmth.
Sophia's friends started gathering around, eager to celebrate. The house was filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. The party had a luminous energy that was hard to ignore.
Brian and Lisa took their place among the guests, joining in the celebration. The music was upbeat, and people danced, enjoying the night.
As the evening progressed, Lisa found herself drawn to the quieter corners of the room. Meanwhile, Brian was engaged in conversation with Sophia's father.
The party reached its climax with the cutting of the birthday cake. Sophia, glowing with excitement, approached Brian and grabbed his hand gently and take him to cut the cake and made him stand beside her. With a bright smile, she made a wish and blew out the candles and everyone cheered.
In a delightful tradition, Sophia's laughter rang out as she shared the cake. She first fed a piece of cake to her father, her father grinning with delight at her sweet gesture. Then turned to Brian and offered him a bite, he accepted the bite with smile and fed her too. After that she offered a bite to her best friend, Caroline beamed, her eyes sparkling with joy.. Meanwhile, Lisa stood apart, her grip tightening on the glass in her hand as a swirl of emotions churned within her—perhaps jealousy.
After a while, Caroline sees an opportunity to undermine Lisa's confidence and public humiliation without implicating Sophia. Noticing that Lisa has been distant from Brian, she decides to use this to her advantage.
Caroline approached Lisa with some of her friends: "Hey, Lisa right?" Caroline greeted her, her tone friendly but laced with a hint of curiosity.
Lisa looked up, surprised: "Yeah and you?"
Caroline mischievously: "I'm Sophia's best friend, she asked me to take care of you."
Lisa raised an eyebrow, sensing the underlying meaning: "Oh, That's so thoughtful of her."
Caroline smiled: "Absolutely. It's important that everyone feels comfortable. Especially when you and Brian are a couple."
Lisa nodded politely, though she felt a pang of discomfort: "Thanks, Caroline. I appreciate it."
YOU ARE READING
FALLING INTO ILLUSIONS
Mystery / Thriller"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from." People whom we love don't need to love us. Where the world is full of people with hatred some people stand with you genuinely...
