Chapter 7

Allison smiled with an air of innocence, but her eyes were unmistakably laced with provocation.

Josie declined. "No, thank you. We have other plans."

Allison pouted slightly, feigning hurt. "Is it because of what happened between Kira and Cami last time? If it made you uncomfortable, I'm sorry. That was mostly Cami's fault. Let me apologize on her behalf. There's no need to hold a grudge against a child, is there?"

Then, turning to Graham, she lowered her voice in self-reproach. "It's my fault. I returned to the country too suddenly, and Cami wasn't used to things here yet. That's probably why she had trouble getting along with her classmates."

Graham immediately pulled her into his arms, comforting her gently.

But when he looked over at Josie, his eyes turned cold. "If they share the same birthday, what's wrong with celebrating it together?"

Josie wanted to tell him that it wasn't the same at all—but before she could speak, Kira tugged on her sleeve.

With tear-reddened eyes, the little girl whispered, "It's okay."

She, too, wanted to see what kind of child her father truly liked.

At five, she couldn't understand favoritism. She only thought she wasn't good enough—that must be why her father didn't love her.

The restaurant was decorated like a fairy-tale castle.

Cami proudly led the way, soaking in the compliments and admiration. Kira trailed behind, silent and red-eyed, watching everything unfold with a mixture of longing and sorrow.

Allison suddenly appeared beside Josie, leaning in close to whisper, "I know about your relationship with Graham."

Josie stiffened.

She wasn't surprised. From the first time they met at the kindergarten, she had suspected Allison already knew. And now, her reaction confirmed it.

Still, Josie couldn't quite understand her motive. "What are you trying to say?"

Allison swirled the wine in her glass and smirked, voice tinged with mockery. "I just wanted to see what kind of woman spent ten years with Graham in my place. Turns out, you're not much. He never really cared about you."

Her words stabbed deep.

Josie let out a bitter laugh. "You're right. To him, I was nothing."

So there was nothing left to fight for.

After today, she would leave, and take Kira with her.

Allison's eyes gleamed with triumph as she waved toward Graham. "Graham, there seems to be a problem with the music for our dance. I heard Josie plays the piano. Why not have her play a tune for us?"

Josie looked at her in disbelief.

They wanted to dance together, and have her provide the music?

Allison's smile deepened, eyes sliding to Graham.

He said nothing. But his silence spoke volumes.

Josie turned, ready to refuse.

But then Allison added casually, "If Josie won't play, then maybe Kira can. I've heard she plays beautifully too."

Josie's heart clenched.

Graham chimed in, his tone dismissive. "It's just a piano piece. Kira could do it—why can't you?"

Josie looked at him for a long moment, then offered a smile so quiet it ached.

"Fine. I'll do it."

She wouldn't let Kira bear this.

She wouldn't let her daughter witness her own father being tender with another woman.

Better she take the pain herself.

She descended the stairs and sat at the piano tucked into a corner.

Allison stood beside Graham, beaming. "Anything is fine, Josie. We're not picky."

As she spoke, she leaned naturally against him, her hand resting on his arm.

Josie's heart had long since gone numb.

She looked at them—this perfect picture of love and triumph—and her lips curved faintly.

So be it. If they were so in love, she would play Mariage d'Amour.

Her fingers fell onto the keys.

Music rose.

And suddenly, Graham froze.