Lost Me Gained Regret

Edith took a sip of her water, letting out a satisfied sigh, "Jane's just looking out for you, you know." "It's a messy kind of care, though."

Christine nodded, "Go take a seat and relax. I've got to wrap up a few things with a client."

"Sure thing, you do what you gotta do."

...

I couldn't shake off my unease about Christine, even zoning out while slicing the birthday cake.

Gregory was there to steady my hand, thankfully.

But my worries proved to be unfounded.

Christine and Dailey were seated worlds apart, with a sea of people and an aisle between them, each engaged in their own conversations.

Just as the cake was being served, Christine stood up suddenly, catching me off guard.

Dailey followed suit, both heading my way.

I frantically reached for Gregory, only to find him gone from my side.

"Chris..."

I feared Christine might do something rash. Just as I opened my mouth, she pressed a microphone to my lips, silencing me.

Dailey, too, stationed himself by my side.

stopped when I heard her speak: "Thanks, everyone, for joining us at Jane's birthday bash and Mira's hundred-day celebration. It's a joyous day, and I'm thrilled to present a performance for

was performing that puzzled me; she was always the life of the party,

was Dailey up

Were they performing together?

quite special; it's

none other

Me: "???"

Christine, mouthing,

especially for you. Take a seat and

gently

me

I was still dazed and confused, something felt

duo began their

half-expecting a brawl

But it didn't happen.

mimicking a famous comedy show, though they hadn't rehearsed

was all impromptu -

punchlines and Dailey

to belongs to

proposal, nothing fancy.

welcome the next performer with

descended

sky, and the soft melody of a piano filled the air fo my surprise, the stage began fo rotate, revealing a figure I