We made our way back into the main room, there was something noticeably different about the both of us. The happiness shone like a beacon from our smiles and joined hands; father and daughter, together again.

As we entered, the lights had been taken down a notch and a heady glow filled the room. The soft and tantalising smells of cigars and coffee wafted around, lacing their way into our senses. There were some people sitting around the grand dining table and others scattered around the room; by the fire place, discussing a piece of art hanging on the wall. Everything felt so relaxed, or was that because the tension had finally been released. There was no longer a need for hushed voices or harsh words to be said, no more shocking revelations or ghosts creeping up from the past. It had all been laid to rest now, a distinctly sombre mood had captured myself and my father which seemed to be reflected in the other guests as they milled around one another seemingly unaware of the drama which had taken place earlier in the evening.

I scanned the room as soon as we were inside, my gaze falling on Millie almost immediately. She was sitting with Bette and Tina, a cup of coffee in hand and a warm smile on her lips. I wanted to kiss those lips right then; take her in my arms and show her how much she meant to me. After such an emotional evening everything else seemed to be turned up a level inside of me. My feelings still raw to the world and hanging off my sleeve for all to see. But I didn’t even care, there was nothing else to hide.

I motioned over to Millie for my father and he gave a nod, letting me lead the way. As we came to the table she looked up, her eyes meeting mine instantaneously. Her look was genuine concern and she stood up without a word to Bette, who was mid sentence, and came over to meet me.

Trix I was so worried. she gushed, reaching to hold me then stopping when she realised exactly who was holding my hand.