The venue was dimly lit, and the spotlight fell exclusively on Sophie, giving her an almost magical glow.
A flash of red caught James's eye. Sophie's red dress was bold and striking, yet it felt like it was made just for her. She seemed like she was at an event like this for the first time, her face showing the sweet awkwardness of youth. In that moment, James thought that her delicate beauty and otherworldly aura were perfectly fitting. It was as if she deserved all the beautiful words the world could offer.
With that thought, a strange pang of pain gripped his chest. It was a feeling he'd never had before, and instinctively, James placed a hand over his heart, as if it no longer belonged to him.
"Thank you all for coming to my eighteenth birthday party. I've prepared a piano piece for you. I'm not the best pianist, but I hope you'll enjoy it," Sophie said, her cheeks a rosy hue, her clear eyes masking her shyness.
Sophie walked over to the white piano and began playing a cheerful and melodious tune. While everyone else listened to the music, James couldn't take his eyes off her. He felt more certain that he had seen her before and heard her play, but he couldn't recall when.
Nearby, Jenna was beside herself with nerves. "What if she hits a wrong note? I stayed up with her practicing all night!" she fretted.
Harold, noticing Jenna's anxiety, chuckled, "If she messes up, I'll never let her live it down."
Soon, the music ended, and everyone clapped for the young princess who was adored by all.
"Where's Gordon? Hasn't he finished work yet?" Jenna wondered aloud, scanning the crowd for him.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Revenge is best served cold