Chapter Five

I don't want to reek of whiskey when I finally come across the stranger who selflessly aided me last night, or worse yet, the person I look up to with such admiration who stands there silently staring at me. It doesn't matter who takes the initiative to approach me first, as long as they show genuine interest. What a dreamer! I just thought.

One of the coordinators approached me, breaking me out of my thoughts. "Miss Danni, the piano is ready for your performance." I took a deep breath, ready to face the crowd. "Alright, I'll be up next. Thank you," I responded, trying to compose myself. Besides my skill for writing, I uncovered my musical abilities thanks to my friend David. Learning how to play the piano opened up a whole new world for me, leading to the building of a band of my own.

When I'm not immersed in writing, some people recognize me for my freelance singing and piano playing. But I never boast about my accomplishments, especially as a writer. It's a hidden aspect of my life that even the guy who happens to be a famous actor, standing just in the corner, has no clue about."

I stood tall and composed myself, gathering my courage to face the crowd. Despite being slightly intoxicated once again, I didn't feel any fluster, especially not in front of him.

Taking a seat on the piano stool, I began playing with a sense of tranquility. As my fingers danced across the keys, I couldn't resist adding my mesmerizing vocals. The newlywed couple, Vanessa and Don, exuded pure exhilaration as my music filled the air. Not only were they fascinated by my performance, but even the older guests joined them on the dance floor, reliving their nostalgic memories.

Overwhelmed with happiness, I couldn't help but continue stealing glances in his direction, secretly dreaming of him joining me in a dance tonight.

After concluding my enchanting performance, I returned to my table, engrossed in savoring my favorite desserts for a second time, I indulged myself with a bottle of champagne by my side. Lost in my little world, nobody dared to disturb me until the newlyweds approached, expressing their heartfelt gratitude.

"Danni, thank you very much for your incredible performance. We're lucky we were to have you as one of our performers. Your skill and presence truly made the event special," Vanessa expressed, warmly embracing me. "Thank you, Vanessa! I had an amazing time throughout the entire night," I joyfully responded, raising my glass in appreciation.

"Don't you want to go mingle with the other guests?" Vanessa asked, her serious gaze fixed on me.

I reassured them both, "No, really, I'm fine here, Van. I'm quite full and enjoying the peacefulness." Don momentarily excused himself from the table to chat with his other guests, leaving Vanessa and me to continue our conversation. We spoke about the highlights of the evening and what took place after the bachelorette party.

Unexpectedly, Vanessa couldn't help but notice the direction of my gaze toward a separate table where Don and his friends were seated. Realizing who I was looking at, she playfully poked fun at me. "I think that's your crush, isn't it?" she said, smiling mischievously. "Huh? Crush, who?" I stuttered, my heart sinking as I realized I was already trapped in a corner.

"Don't try to deny it, Danni. We're friends, so I can tell if you have feelings for a guy or not," Vanessa whispered, a mischievous laugh escaping her lips.

"Vanessa, I have no idea what you're talking about," I replied, my cheeks turning a deep shade of crimson. "Scott. You like Scott, don't you?" she shot back. "Who? Scott Reeves?" I finally managed to utter his name, my embarrassment reaching its peak.

"Reeves? So that's his real name? Ooh!" Vanessa teased, unable to contain her excitement. "Yes, that's right. But please, don't make a big deal out of it, okay?" I implored, feeling utterly mortified. I knew deep down that no matter how much I begged Vanessa, she would never be able to keep this secret to herself.