Chapter 11

Liv’s POV The tea had barely cooled in my cup when my phone buzzed again. This time, the name on the screen made my heart ache. “Dad,” I murmured, picking up immediately. “Liv,” his familiar, warm voice greeted me. It felt like a blanket of comfort wrapped around my frazzled nerves. “Hi, Dad,” I said, the tightness in my chest loosening a fraction. “How are you, sweetheart?” he asked, concern lacing his tone. “I’ve been worried about you.” “I’m fine,” I lied, forcing a smile even though he couldn’t see it. “Really, I am.” There was a pause, and then his voice softened. “That’s good to hear. When are you coming home to visit your old man? It’s been too long.” “Soon, Dad,” I promised. “I’ll come see you in the countryside. I miss you.” “I miss you too, pumpkin,” he said with a chuckle. But then his voice took on a tentative edge. “And how’s the wedding going?” The question felt like a punch to the gut, but I steadied myself, determined not to let my emotions spill over. “There was no wed