Chapter Two #3
“They match the color scheme, and they’re Mom’s favorite. Did you forget?” I give him a sweet smile laced with venom.
Dad stares at me for a few moments. I continue to smile sweetly like the daughter he thinks I am.
“Ah, I see.” His eyes are cautious. Something must be eating at him.
He quickly fixes his features into a tight smile.
To anyone else, he would seem happy, but I see the malice behind it.
“I’m sure she would love it if she were here.
” He pauses for a few moments. “Well, it's almost show time. Do you have your speech prepared?”
Of course, he brushes right over the topic of mom.
In the sixteen years she’s been gone, he has never spoken about her besides a few comments when someone else brings her up.
“Yes, it’s all ready. I’ll go find Lila and do final checks, then meet you on stage.
” I walk away and let my smile falter for just a second as Lila approaches.
“I take it that didn’t go well.” Lila stares at Dad from a distance.
“No, but I didn’t expect anything less. Everything in place? Everyone is here?” I look around at the packed ballroom. Here goes nothing.
“Yep, go give them hell. I’ll be here when you’re done,” she says as she squeezes me quickly and goes to find her seat.
I make my way up to the stage, the spotlight hitting me just as I reach the microphone.
I clear my throat, gathering everyone’s attention.
“Hello, everyone. I’m Kiera Hawthorne, as most of you know.
Thank you for joining us on this wonderful evening for this charity auction.
” I smile and look around as everyone starts clapping.
If there is anything these socialites love, it's to ‘spend money for a good cause’.
“This charity, Reaching for the Stars, is a local hospital that offers free treatment for rare diseases. Their goal is to offer treatment to anyone who needs it. Which I think is just wonderful. Tonight, the lovely chairman has dedicated it to my mom, Evelyn.”
Rounds of applause and cheers erupted around me.
Dad looks over at me with shock and a hint of anger.
I wait for the room to calm down. Just as I am about to speak, Dad’s phone pings.
Right on time. I set the email to autoplay as soon as it opens, so when he clicks the message, the haunting melody plays through the speakers connected to the microphone.
Dad gasps and rushes to close the email.
He looks around and excuses himself. Shock ripples through the crowd.
I clear my throat again, a small sound against the chaos, “I’m sorry about that disruption.
As I was saying, the chairman was nice enough to dedicate tonight to Evelyn, my mother.
I hope you enjoy tonight and remember who we are helping!
Let the auctions begin.” Another round of cheers erupts as I walk across the stage.
I look around for Dad, but I can’t see him in the mass of people. Oh well
Walking over to Lila, I give her a bright smile as I take my seat next to her. She cackles, “Well done, Hawthorne. Well done.”
Lila and I are standing by the exit, thanking our guests as the last wave of socialites leaves. When the last person is out the door, Lila turns to me, “Have you seen Wade?”
“Not since he was on stage with me. He missed the whole thing. I’m guessing he didn’t see you either, since I didn’t hear cursing half the night?” I ask as I drop into the chair.
“Nope, not one bump in.” She slides down into the chair next to me. “I am exhausted.”
“Same. I need to get home and rest. I’m helping out with the cafe's internet tomorrow.” I rest my head on her shoulder. “What are you doing after this?”
“Dax is picking me up and taking me home.” Lila’s phone goes off just as she finishes her sentence. “Speaking of the devil, he’s here. Love you, be safe.” She hugs me and gathers her things. “Let me know when you make it home.” Waving over her shoulder as she heads outside.
Sighing, I gather my things and head to my car. Throwing my stuff in the back, I quickly get into the front seat. Like a Villain by Bad Omen plays as soon as my vehicle starts. Throwing it in reverse, I quickly back up and put it into drive. I’m sooo ready to drop dead on my bed.
I’m in my parking spot within the next twenty minutes.
I grab my keys and purse, deciding to leave the rest until tomorrow.
Nothing that can’t be replaced. Rushing to the elevator, I get on and press the button for the top floor.
I lean my head against the wall, resting my eyes.
A ding sounds, letting me know I’ve reached my destination.
Exhaustion pouring through me, I slowly open my eyes and move toward my apartment.
I let myself in and lock the door behind me.
Satisfied that the door is locked correctly, I drag myself to my bedroom, stripping as I walk down the hallway.
Not bothering to put on pajamas, I curl into bed and let the sound of my fan lull me to sleep.