David adjusted his black bowtie while standing near the punch bowl.
The air inside the grand hall smelled like expensive perfume and fresh lilies.
Dozens of rich guests walked across the polished marble floor.
They laughed and drank champagne under the glowing crystal chandelier.
David felt out of place among his late wife's wealthy family.
He only came to the estate to honor his wife's final memory.
His three-year-old daughter Lilly was wearing her favorite white dress.
She held his hand tightly as they walked through the crowd.
David smiled down at his small daughter with endless pride.
She was the most precious person left in his whole life.
His sister-in-law Victoria walked up with a silver tray in her hand.
She looked down her nose at David with a sharp glare.
Victoria: You should keep a closer eye on your kid.
David: She is staying right next to me tonight.
Victoria: This party is for important board members and investors.
David: We are only staying for another thirty minutes anyway.
Victoria turned her back and walked away toward the grand staircase.
David took a deep breath and tried to stay calm for Lilly.
He knelt on the floor to tie his daughter's small shoe.
A waiter brushed past him with a large tray of glasses.
David stood up quickly to avoid a spill on his pants.
He looked down to grab his little girl's soft hand again.
His hand touched empty air where his daughter had just stood.
David turned in a full circle with a sudden jolt of panic.
David: Lilly?
The loud chatter of the guests drowned out his nervous voice.
He checked behind the heavy silk drapes by the high window.
Nobody was standing behind the thick red velvet cloth at all.
He walked rapidly toward the center of the big room.
His heart started pounding fast against his broad chest.
David: Has anyone seen my small girl in the white dress?
The guests ignored his question and kept on sipping their wine.