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Inside, it was bright and loud and full.

My parents stood at the centre of it all, working the room with warm smiles. Beside them was a girl in a pink princess dress.

Mia Prescott.

She stood like she owned the room, enjoying every look, every compliment.

Mum placed a jewelled crown on her head. Her voice was gentle. "Our Mia. The most beautiful girl in the room tonight."

Dad opened a velvet box. A diamond necklace.

"Do you like it? Had it made especially for you."

Mia beamed. "Thank you so much. You're both too good to me."

The guests around them made admiring sounds.

"Robert, she's basically your own daughter — better than most real ones!"

"Seriously, what a gesture. I don't know how you do it."

"Robert — if this is how you treat a goddaughter, your actual daughter must be absolutely spoilt."

My parents laughed and waved it all off. Oh, it's nothing, she deserves it.

Nobody noticed me in the doorway.

I raised my phone and filmed the scene. Then I straightened my skirt, picked up a glass of champagne from a passing tray, and walked towards them.