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.

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 y'all." Me:

fact that Christine was performing that puzzled me; she was always the life of the

why was Dailey up

Were they performing together?

is quite special;

partner is none other than

Me: "???"

Christine, mouthing, "What

one's especially for

was gently pushed off the

me to

I was still dazed

began

a

But it didn't happen.

act was surprisingly good, mimicking a famous

was all impromptu -

her punchlines and

to belongs to

proposal, nothing fancy.

it from Mr. Clarkson and me. Let's welcome

Christine descended the

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