"We got Annie!"
Drake surprised himself with the capacity of joy he was able to exude. But it wasn't just him or even just Grace. Everyone in the house was elated. Christmas decorations were put up in a flash, meals and treats were prepared, the judge was called to the mansion on Christmas Eve… it was a proper celebration. Despite being in the wake of the realization her parents hadn't come for her after all, the soon-to-be Annie Warbucks was as happy as ever when she came down the stairs wearing her Christmas dress. They were truly walking on air, especially Drake when Grace accepted his invitation to dance. For a moment, it was the two of them in tandem. He could push the way their boss had gaped at Grace in her new dress for the time being. Had he had the courage to ask her for a dance? Mr. Warbucks' loss was his gain.
But as was the theme of these last few days, things didn't remain one way for long.
"I'm afraid we concluded the interviews this afternoon, Mr. and Mrs…"
"Mudge," the man said. "Ralph Mudge. Here's my wife, Shirley."
"Oh please," the woman begged, "We've been traveling all day. We've got to see our Annie."
And so began a night of chaos.
. . .
"She won't come out of her room," Grace said with defeat as she walked to the end of the hall. There was no time for tea tonight, hardly any time for any conversation aside from what they could fit in between phone calls and checking on the child. "I'm worried about her."
"She's overwhelmed, I expect."
"I think she suspects something is off as well. She was too excited about meeting her parents to have run off in tears."
"I noticed that, too."
"If Mr. Warbucks wasn't so busy, I'd make him try."
"Let the girl sleep," Drake said.
"I know she isn't sleeping."
"What would you be doing if you were her?"
She thought for a moment, then frowned. "The same."
"There's no point in upsetting her any further. Mr. Warbucks already decided she won't be sent with Mr. and Mrs. Mudge no matter what's able to be found tonight. You don't have to worry about saying goodbye."
"No," she scoffed bitterly, "but I have to worry about watching her heart be broken again."
Before he could respond again, Oliver met them on the stairs in a tizzy. "Grace, I need you to come with me this instant."
"What is it? What did you find?"
Grabbing hold of her elbow, he started leading her down the stairs. "You'll want to see for yourself."
Grace followed, looking back at Drake with an apologetic look. He waved, letting her know it was okay, though couldn't stop the feeling of resentment burning in his stomach. Even if she hadn't been led away by him, she would have followed.