Everyone knew what she’d done.
Then Glen turned toward Lily.
“Come here, sweetheart.”
That was when I realized Ida hadn’t been the only person he intended to address that night.
Lily looked at me uncertainly.
I nodded through my tears.
“Go on,” I whispered.
She ran toward Glen, and he lifted her into his arms as the music started.
“You’ve been my daughter in every way that matters. Blood doesn’t get to decide that,” he told her. “Will you share a father-daughter dance with me?”
Lily nodded.
The guests rose and applauded as they slowly swayed together.
I watched my little girl laugh against Glen’s shoulder, finally knowing without doubt that she belonged.
As the song ended, Glen looked at me over Lily’s shoulder.
“This is family,” he mouthed.
