the birthday girl decided to grace us with her presence. I thought you were planning to leave me alone with all these people."
We hug, her sweet perfume drifting to me. Violet is as introverted as they come, whereas I'm a people person. Our polar-opposite personalities complement each other well.
Her father, Tristan Hayes, and my father run a company together, so we've been friends since diapers.
"Shut up." I mutter. "You saw me thirty minutes ago when you said hello."
"For me, that's hours too long," she jokes.
We pull apart, and I glance over the guests. "Have you seen my parents?"
"Nope. Mine called to let me know they're running late." Just then, a rush of murmurs spreads through the room. Turning toward the entrance, my lips curve up as I watch my parents walk into the entertainment room, followed by Uncle
Demitri, Aunt Ariana, and Viktor.
Dad's eyes snap in my direction, then his smile widens. love softening his gaze. Letting go of Mom, he walks to me, and the moment I'm within touching distance, he sweeps me against his broad chest. "Printsessa." I'm engulfed in a tight hug. "Happy birthday, my baby-girl."
I let out a happy sigh as I soak in the safety of my father's arms. "Thank you, Daddy."
When he lets go of me, Dad gestures in the direction of the
table that's overflowing with gifts. "All for you."