Daddy Dearest

DESTINY

I couldn’t believe my eyes! There in the kitchen doorway was my father and Lord Barrington. The room spun and I fell into James’ arms.

“Destiny!” I heard James’ voice from far away. He patted my face, and I shoved his hand away. They made me sit on a barstool in the kitchen. Mrs. Donahue shoved a glass of water against my lips.

“Daddy?” I wasn’t dreaming, he was there. He was really there.

“I saw your photo in the papers. Wouldn’t want to miss your wedding, my girl.” He looked older, unshaved and unkempt. Was that alcohol I smelled on his breath?

“You never called.” Were the only words I managed to say. Then I bawled.

“Destiny…” James went down on his knees next to me, taking my hands in his.

“I’m so sorry, we didn’t mean to upset you, Destiny. Your father contacted me last night. I thought you would want him to be part of the wedding.” Lord Barrington said.

Looking at them now I wondered if I still wanted it. He never called me, left me wondering all this time if he was still