"Throughout the years you've known me, I've always been absorbed in my work and so has she... Oh, I guess I can tell you that she's a doctor," Eric said, before turning his head to signal the staff to start the music.
Instantly, the prelude of 'Goodbye' began, and Avery stole a nervous glance at Layla.
Layla was shaken and simply stared at the stage in confusion with a frown on her face.
"Honey, who's Eric's girlfriend?" Elliot had never heard of any mention of Eric's girlfriend.
"I don't know! He didn't say anything to me."
"Oh... Layla, what's wrong?" Elliot noticed the odd look on his daughter's face.
"Don't ask," Avery said before taking Layla's hands. "Layla, why don't we head home?"
Despite the piercing pain in her heart, Layla knew exactly where she was. Not only were her parents next to her, their family friends, and others were around as well. If she lost control, she would embarrass herself and her parents.
"I'm fine, Mom. It's the last song. Let's listen to it." Layla lowered her head and took out the thermal flask she had in her purse.
Avery looked up at the stage and saw Eric holding the microphone with both his hands as he performed the last song of his career with his eyes closed.
Time slipped by and the song had come to an end. Eric opened his eyes to scan the audience before taking a bow.
"Let's go!" Avery knew that Layla was upset and stood from her seat.
Elliot immediately followed.
"There's still the dinner, Mom. Let's go and check out his girlfriend!" Layla had gathered her bearings, and at the very least, she looked calm on the surface.
Had she not confessed her attraction to Eric, he would have never rushed his way into a relationship. It was clear to Layla that he was merely doing so to make her give up, and it was hardly necessary when he had already turned her down.
"I've known her for many years. Our families had even set us up," said Eric gently and calmly as he always had. He stared at Layla's flushed face. "Your mother might remember her. I was introduced to her when I was in Bridgedale."
He turned to look at the backstage entrance.
She was here. As Eric's girlfriend, it was only natural that she would be here, and she had been seated in the second row with Eric's parents.
"Hello, I'm Eric's girlfriend. My name is Nadia Raven." Nadia hurried toward Eric and scanned the crowd before focusing on Avery. "Miss Tate, I'm not sure if you still remember me."
Avery smiled and nodded. "Of course, I do. I just haven't heard Eric mention your name recently. Who knew that you two had started dating? Congratulations!"
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