MY FATHER'S BEST FRIEND

ANNA & DANIEL

ANNA'S POV

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manicured lawn as I stepped out of my car, smoothing down my navy silk dress. My father's familiar Mercedes was already parked in the circular driveway of the impressive Mediterranean villa. I could hear the gentle hum of conversation and soft Jazz music drifting from the backyard.

"Anna! There you are, sweetheart." Dad emerged from around the corner, his warm smile instantly putting me at ease. Even at 50, he carried himself with the same confidence i remembered from my childhood.

"Sorry I'm a bit late," I said, accepting his quick hug....