Players

15. You Don't Understand

___________________________________

.

.

.

~ DOMINIC GRANT ~

.

I smile at Nora Montgomery as if I am genuinely happy to be escorted out by her without having at least one meaningful conversation with Cassidy. And I have to thank that spoiled little brat to thank for that - she gobbled up all the attention Cassidy should have spared me. I seriously wonder why people like having these miniature demons around. They are attention-seeking and self-entitled and they can get nothing right.

"I am so glad that she has time for herself despite all things going on in her life," Nora speaks. I do not want to stay back and listen to this old hag yap but I do it anyway because I have a feeling that she will definitely spout out something in my favor.

"It must be difficult for her, being a single mother." I throw the bone for her to take. "She told me how hard it was for her to take care of Madison while she suffered from cancer. She had no choice and no one to rely on. But she did well, didn't she?"

I flex my jaw to prevent myself from smiling victoriously at the look of shock on the older woman's face.

But this is not enough. I need to make sure that my plan does not get exposed.

"Please don't ask Cassidy about it. She made me promise that I don't tell anyone about her tough days. She is tired, you know. She wants a break. You would have already seen how detached she has been the past couple of days. She really needs to take it easy but she has a kid to take care of and she needs to work hard for the sake of the kid's future. All of this when the kid is not even hers and she has not had the chance at a proper life. It's too hard for her."

All of a sudden, I am feeling optimistic and I am glad that Madison spilled all of that chocolate sauce on herself. It was giving me the chance to brainwash Nora Montgomery into thinking how pitiful Cassidy's situation is despite the bravado she puts forth.

"No no... You don't understand. Cassidy loves Madison. So so much. Liam, my son and Maddie's father, is getting remarried and she is not all happy about giving Maddie away to him and his bride." Nora's eyes are wide, and her hands fidgety as she says this. She seems like she is spewing things that she herself is desperately trying to believe.

I am sorry Mrs. Montgomery, I am not going to make this any easy for you or your grandchild.

My agenda is simple - Cassidy Meyers is mine. So it is only fair that I have her all to myself. And for that, you and Madison Montgomery need to get out of her hair. You have been leeching off of her for long enough now. It is time that you both f****d off so that she can start a real family with me.

"You are a mother. You should know the difference between what one wants and what one needs." I say solemnly. "Good night, Mrs. Montgomery."

.

.

.

I dial Liam's number on my phone, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Liam is one of my closest friends, and he recently got engaged. I can't wait to talk to him about his upcoming wedding. The phone rings a few times before he finally answers.

"Hey, Liam! It's Dominic," I say, trying to sound casual.

"Dom! What's up, buddy?" Liam's voice comes through the phone, filled with warmth and enthusiasm.

"Not much, man. Just wanted to check in and see how you're doing. How's everything going with the wedding plans?" I ask, leaning back in my chair.

Liam chuckles, and I can almost picture the grin on his face. "Oh, man, it's been crazy! But in a good way. Sarah and I have been busy finalizing the details. You won't believe how much goes into planning a wedding."

I can hear the excitement in Liam's voice, and it makes me even more eager to hear about the preparations. "Tell me all about it. What have you guys been up to?"

Liam takes a deep breath, and I can tell he's ready to share. "Well, first things first, we found a beautiful venue. It's this old historic mansion surrounded by gardens. Sarah fell in love with it the moment we saw it. And you know what they say, happy wife, happy life."

I laugh at Liam's words, picturing him nodding along with a knowing smile. "That's true, my friend. The venue sounds amazing. What about the guest list? Have you finalized that yet?"

Liam lets out a sigh, and I can sense a hint of stress in his voice. "Yeah, the guest list has been a bit of a challenge. We both have large families and so many close friends. Trying to narrow it down has been tough, but we're almost there. We want it to be an intimate celebration, but it's hard to exclude people you care about."

I nod empathetically, even though Liam can't see me. "I can imagine. It's always a delicate balance. But I'm sure you and Sarah will figure it out. Have you decided on a date yet?"

Liam pauses for a moment before answering. "Yeah, we've picked a date. It's going to be on the 18th of November. We wanted a fall wedding, and that date worked well for both of us. It's going to be a little chilly, but we'll have cozy blankets and warm drinks for the guests."

I smile, picturing the scene in my mind. "That sounds perfect, Liam. A fall wedding has its own charm. I'm sure it will be beautiful."

Liam's voice grows softer as he continues, "Thanks, Dom. That means a lot. You know, I've been thinking about my vows too. I want them to be meaningful and from the heart. Sarah means everything to me, and I want to express that in the best way possible."

I can hear the sincerity in Liam's voice, and I'm touched by his words. "I have no doubt that your vows will be heartfelt and beautiful, Liam. You have a way with words, my friend."

Liam chuckles modestly. "Thanks, Dom. I appreciate your faith in me. But hey, I need your help with something."

"Of course, anything. What do you need?" I respond, eager to assist in any way I can.

"We're still finalizing the playlist for the reception, and we want it to be amazing. You know how important music is to both of us. We want everyone to have a great time and hit the dance floor. Can you help me come up with some suggestions?" Liam asks, his voice hopeful.

A grin spreads across my face as I hear Liam's request. "Absolutely, Liam! I'd love to help you with that. What kind of music are you looking for? Any specific genres or artists?"

Liam takes a moment to think before replying, "Well, we want a mix of classics and some more modern hits. Something for everyone, you know? We both love a wide range of music, so it's hard to narrow it down. But maybe we can start with some timeless classics that always get people dancing."

I nod, even though Liam can't see me. "Got it. How about some Michael Jackson? 'Billie Jean' and 'Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough' are always crowd-pleasers."

Liam's voice perks up with excitement. "Yes, definitely! Michael Jackson is a must. And what about some disco? 'Stayin' Alive' by the Bee Gees and 'Dancing Queen' by ABBA. Those are sure to get people on their feet."

I chuckle, picturing the dance floor packed with guests grooving to the beat. "Oh, those are perfect choices, Liam. Classic disco hits never fail to get people in a dancing mood. And speaking of dancing, how about some 'Uptown Funk' by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars? It's a modern hit with a funky vibe."

Liam laughs, clearly liking the suggestion. "Yes, that's a great addition. 'Uptown Funk' is such a fun song. It'll definitely get the party going. And how about some rock? We need some high-energy tunes too."

I ponder for a moment before offering a suggestion. "How about 'Livin' on a Prayer' by Bon Jovi? That always gets the crowd singing along and rocking out."

Liam's voice grows more enthusiastic. "Absolutely! Bon Jovi is a classic. That song will be a hit for sure. We should also include some feel-good songs like 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams. It's impossible to resist dancing when that song comes on."

I nod in agreement, even though Liam can't see me. "Definitely, Liam. 'Happy' is a great choice. It's such a joyful and uplifting song. And hey, what about some 'Sweet Caroline' by Neil Diamond? That's a sing-along anthem that gets everyone involved."

Liam bursts into laughter on the other end of the line. "Oh, man, 'Sweet Caroline'! That's a brilliant suggestion. I can already imagine the whole room belting out the 'Ba, ba, ba!' part. It's going to be epic."

I join in Liam's laughter, happy to contribute to his excitement. "I'm glad you like it, Liam. It's going to be a night to remember, that's for sure. We'll make sure the dance floor is packed from start to finish."

As we continue brainstorming and sharing ideas, time flies by. We discuss different genres, artists, and songs that will create the perfect atmosphere for Liam and Sarah's wedding reception. Our conversation is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and anticipation for the big day.

Before we know it, hours have passed, and we've created an impressive playlist that captures their personalities and musical tastes. Liam thanks me profusely for my help, expressing his gratitude for being a part of his special day.

"Thank you, Dom. I can't tell you how much it means to me that you're helping us with this. You've always been there for me, and I'm so glad to have you as a friend."

I feel a warmth in my chest as Liam's words reach me. "The feeling

is mutual, Liam. You've always been there for me too, and I'm honored to be a part of your wedding day. It's going to be incredible, and I couldn't be happier for you and Sarah."

We exchange a few more words, discussing other aspects of the wedding, and then we say our goodbyes, promising to catch up again soon. As I hang up the phone, a sense of joy and excitement fills my heart. Being a part of Liam's journey and witnessing his love story unfold is a privilege I treasure.

I can't help but smile as I imagine the wedding day, the beautiful venue, the music filling the air, and the celebration of love and unity. Liam and Sarah are embarking on a new chapter of their lives, and I couldn't be more thrilled for them.

As I sit there, my mind already drifting to thoughts of dance floor shenanigans and heartfelt toasts, I can't help but feel grateful for the power of friendship and the moments we get to share with the people we hold dear. Liam's wedding will be a testament to the bonds we've formed, and it's a reminder that love and connection are the truest treasures in life.

With that in mind, I make a mental note to keep supporting Liam throughout this journey, to be there for him as a friend and confidant. And when the wedding day arrives, I'll be right by his side, raising a glass to love, friendship, and the beautiful adventure that awaits Liam and Sarah as they say "I do."

.

.

.