TAYLOR

‘Super proud of you, Taylor! I would be watching from the crowd, Dad.’

River is still holding the card, and her mouth is slightly open as she looks at me. I swallowed the lump in my throat and tried to act as if it didn't matter, but she already looked worried.

“I am sure he is just here to see your showcase," she said.

It sounded like she was the one who needed the convincing because I could hear all of the things she wanted to say, but couldn't.

"Yeah," I nodded.

I wanted to ...