The whole of the restaurant were up on their feet clapping as the lights dimmed and footage of The Lakehouse was projected on to the screen behind the stage. The band began to play and everyone watched the images of Dolores from the past. Frank walked on to the stage holding Dolores’ hand and they sat down on a couple of stools in the middle of the stage and stared up at the screen, which was showing younger versions of themselves performing together that very first time at The Lakehouse. It had taken Ella over a week to find a copy of that special night and Dolores clearly couldn’t believe her eyes. She gripped Frank’s arm as the whole room watched the moment when she was discovered, her very first performance at The Lakehouse.

The whole night whizzed past in an absolute blur. Ella was in awe of Dolores, her energy and stage presence keeping everyone captivated the whole time. Each artist provided a story that had the audience in stitches regarding Dolores, and she sang duets with each and every one. The Lakehouse was alive, and back on the map. This night was going down in history, not only for Dolores and The Lakehouse but for Ella too. It was truly a sensational night and she never wanted it to end.

‘I need to congratulate you, this night is amazing, you should think about this as a full-time job.’ Charlie took a couple of glasses of champagne from the passing waiter and gave one to Ella. ‘Cheers.’

‘Cheers,’ replied Ella, thinking about Charlie’s words. She’d enjoyed every second of making this evening happen and she was going to chat to Flynn about further events. Ella was excited for her future at The Lakehouse and in Heartcross.

Dolores stood in the middle of the stage with the spotlight shining right on her. ‘I have had the most fantastic career, and been blessed with the most fantastic son,’ she blew a kiss across to Hamish, ‘and the most fantastic friends. This night has meant the world to me,’ she gave a look of admiration towards Charlie, ‘and I can’t thank Ella enough for organising tonight, and Roman for all the technical stuff. Now, I have one special performance left before everyone joins me back on stage.’

Ella looked towards Roman, she didn’t know about any other special guests, what was going on?

‘Please welcome Roman Docherty on to the stage!’

The room erupted in applause as Ella watched Roman take Dolores’ hand before he sat down at the piano.

‘What’s all this?’ asked Ella, looking at Charlie. ‘I didn’t even know Roman could play the piano.’

‘Those two have been practising for the last week, this is going to be magical.’ Charlie cupped her hand around Ella’s and all eyes were on the stage.

‘This is one of my favourite songs of all time, “Somewhere over the Rainbow”.’ Dolores nodded towards Roman.