Evelyn's POV
The final notes of the orchestra drifted gently through the ballroom before fading into silence.
For a heartbeat, neither my father nor I moved.
Then the applause came.
It started with a few guests near the dance floor before spreading throughout the ballroom until the elegant hall was filled with warm appreciation. Smiles surrounded us from every direction, accompanied by raised glasses and approving nods.
I smiled shyly, feeling my cheeks grow warm.
Not because everyone was watching.
Because I still couldn't quite believe what had just happened.
Dad looked at me before letting out a quiet chuckle.
"I suppose we didn't embarrass ourselves."
I laughed.
"I think we survived."
"Barely."
He pretended to straighten his jacket.
"I haven't danced in years."
"You hid it well."
"I'll accept that as a compliment."
"It was."
He smiled, and for a brief moment, the years between us seemed to disappear.
