Sweetest Lies

The pitter-patter of rain against Rayne's window provided a rhythmic backdrop to her frantic revision. Physics flashcards and past papers littered her desk, a testament to the looming GCSE exams.

A soft knock interrupted her focus. Her father, Evan Winchester, stepped in, his expression alight with excitement.

"What? Why aren't you dressed? We need to leave soon to meet Jasmine for dinner," he asked, confusion clouding his features.

Rayne's heart sank. "Dad, I'm so sorry. I forgot I had physics as well as further maths tomorrow, so I just started revising. Maybe after my exams, I can meet Jasmine."

He nodded, accepting her decision, and left. "Don't forget to bring me dessert!" Rayne called out after him.

The next morning, an unsettling silence hung heavy in the house. No clatter from the kitchen, no bark from the Doberman. Her father was gone.

Later, exiting her exam hall triumphant, Rayne chatted with her best friend, Vera, until a classmate approached. "Ms. Mitchell wants to see you in her office, Rayne."

Inside, two police officers and a casually dressed woman stood grimly. "I'm Rachel, a social care worker. I'm so sorry for your loss," the woman said softly. Rayne's stomach dropped.

"Rayne, your father passed away this morning from complications after his car accident," Rachel revealed. Rayne froze, her world tilting. "What do you mean my dad's dead? He was fine last night!"