“Were there any last-minute costume malfunctions?”
Chloe shook her head. “Everyone’s costume is perfect. I’ve left a sewing kit and some tape with one of the teachers. If anything happens, she’ll fix it right away.”
After a few seconds of silence, Paul leaned forward. “How long have you known Chloe, Liam?”
Liam wasn’t sure what Chloe had told Paul about their relationship, so he wouldn’t say too much to him. “A few months. Are you still living in Washington, D.C.?”
Paul nodded. “I enjoy living there, although I’ve been thinking about moving closer to Oscar. The company I work for has an office in Denver.”
Chloe tensed. “You didn’t mention that when we talked.”
“I didn’t have time. It’d make seeing him a lot easier.”
Liam was sure it would, but Chloe didn’t seem happy about it. He glanced at Paul, hoping what he said next would steer the conversation to a safer topic. “Oscar’s a great kid. You must be proud of him.”
“I am,” Paul said with a hint of a smile. “He’s changed so much since I last saw him.”
The lights dimmed, signaling that the performance was about to begin. A hush fell over the crowd as the principal stepped onto the stage to welcome everyone.
“Thank you for coming to our annual holiday play,” she began. “The students have put in a lot of effort, and we’re sure you’re going to enjoy the show.”
Applause rippled through the audience as she exited the stage and the curtain rose. The backdrop was a whimsical winter scene, complete with paper snowflakes and a painted village.
Children filed onto the stage, each dressed in festive costumes—elves, reindeer, snowflakes, and even a few gingerbread people. Liam scanned the group, quickly spotting Oscar in his elf outfit.
As the performance unfolded, Liam enjoyed every minute. The children sang with gusto, occasionally missing a cue or stumbling over a line, which only added to the charm. WhenOscar stepped forward for his solo line, he glanced into the audience, his eyes searching for something.
“He’s looking for us,” Chloe whispered.
Paul leaned forward, giving a small wave. Oscar’s face lit up when he saw his dad. He waved back, then delivered his line confidently.
Liam was proud of Oscar, but seeing him search for his mom and dad stirred feelings he hadn’t fully acknowledged before. Even if his relationship with Chloe deepened into something that lasted forever, he’d never be Oscar’s dad. Paul would always be a part of their lives, regardless of whether Chloe wanted him there.
The play continued, ending in a wonderful finale where all the children sang together. The audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation as the curtain fell. But the cheers and applause brought the curtain back up for not one, but three encore songs. The children’s faces were alight with happiness, their voices filling the auditorium.
After the final bow, the house lights came up, and families began gathering their things to meet their young performers.
“That was fantastic,” Liam said, turning to Chloe.
“They did such an incredible job,” she agreed, her eyes shining.
Paul stood up. “We should find Oscar. He’ll be looking for us.”
They made their way out of the auditorium and into the crowded hallway. Children in their costumes darted between adults, laughter and excited chatter echoing off the walls.
“Mom! Dad! Liam!” Oscar’s voice rose above the din. He came bounding toward them, his elf hat slightly askew and a huge grin on his face.
Chloe crouched down to hug him. “You were amazing!”
“Thanks, Mom!” He turned to Paul. “Did you see me?”
“I sure did,” Paul replied, ruffling Oscar’s hair. “You were the best elf out there.”
Oscar beamed, then looked up at Liam. “Did you like it, Liam?”
“I loved it,” he said sincerely. “You did a fantastic job.”
Oscar’s eyes sparkled with delight. “I’m glad you’re all here!” He paused, then looked at Liam and Paul. “Dad, do you know Liam has a dog named Trixie, and we play together a lot.”
