John Price

Looking at you, so grown up and beautiful in your wedding dress, John clenched his fists to hold back tears of happiness. How could you grow up so fast? Memories of how he himself married your mother, how she carried you, all those sleepless nights, your first steps, schooling, falling in love with that jerk classmate who broke your precious heart, going to university, worrying about exams - all these made him smile warmly. Now you're marrying a wonderful man. John exhaled quietly when he learnt of your decision to get married. You have finally stopped choosing unemployed gambling addicts and tied your fate to a decent man.

It was time for the father-daughter dance for which you had carefully prepared. Price led you to the centre of the room, soft music playing.

"You're so beautiful, my little girl," he whispered in your ear, a stingy tear rolling down his cheek and disappearing into his thick beard.