The New me

For someone who came from a different life, the food of the wealthy is a delight to my tongue. Like this seared duck foie gras or that lamb rack and sweetbread croquet made by a Michelin chef. They aren't something I can eat casually. While the taste is exemplary, the amount you get is....well, enough to taste each dish.

After a few rounds of food, the people surrounding me once again began a superfluous conversation. This kind of talk is never-ending.

I did not make small talks in between food, rather I am savoring the flavors just in case I wake up the next day in my real body. I am at peace with food. Ahh, food is life.

As I was waiting for the next course, I indifferently observed the people around. Sitting opposite me is Luke whose head is lowered, eating his duck. To his right are his parents, and there's even Liam in our table. It's my first time seeing him in person, he is seriously handsome.

Even the I've-got-no-time-for-that girl a.k.a Ginger can't help but subtly steal glances. She was mum while mother is engrossed in discussions with Mr. and Mrs. Wang.

Poor soul. Even when she's being obvious that she's listening to their conversation, the couple did not spare her a word.

At present, they are serving cardoon gratin which they explained as a liver-supporting food. I drank my water and in doing so I caught sight of the man sitting opposite my father.

It was brief but I know that face. He was here. I wasn't wrong. It was the guy from the diner. I can't believe I focused on Liam that I forgot to check the other side.

I almost choke. Thankfully I did not. It will be haunting to choke on the water with the same guy on our table.

Funny how we're table mates once again.

On his left are Mr. and Mrs. He with my best friend Lily. The guy, together with my father and Lily's parents were having a mini-conference. Lily is currently on a pleasant exchange with her seatmate.

I resolved to eat in peace.

——————

We danced at the end of the party. It was also the climax. It was here that I was given the spotlight. A moment I hated.

They closed the lights at the start then as the music began playing, they turned it on one by one.

In front of me is Luke, gesturing me to take his hand and dance with him. Various cheers erupted from the crowd.

I felt the urge to kick him. I honestly hate intimate slow dancing.

If I may say the reason, it's because of my ex-boyfriend. We were together when we're in high school. I was nervous as I haven't danced before yet thrilled to be dancing with the person I thought I love.

Cutting it short, the experience was terrible. He was focused on cupping me all the while flirting with the girl behind. Then after all he did, he said I was bad at it. So bad that he needs to rest his feet for the next few days. Then rumors of our break up were passed around. Our relationship never officially ended. I wanted to cut that part of my memory with him.

I can't even make up an excuse as all eyes were on me. I can even feel one gaze burning.

So I reluctantly agreed to grace him with my beautiful self.

Young man, don't go complaining after the dance.

The first step, good. The second step, not bad. Third, well, it's the start of hell.

He chuckled. "You bragged before of your godly dance skills, now I'm experiencing it."

"Well, I can even be better," I said as I stepped again on his left foot. Oops!

I looked at him as he was left speechless by my shamelessness.

He shook his head while smiling, "Relax your body, follow my lead." He slowed his pace.

I gave him an apologetic look as I followed his movement. Although I did not magically become better, my missteps were lessened.

My parents decided to join us. They look accustomed dancing with each other. Mother is so graceful with her moves.

The hall was gradually filled with pairs, each enjoying the intimacy. I was planning to sit down after the first song but my father chose this time to exchange partners.

"My baby's all grown up. She's now a princess with a knight in shining armour." He teased.

"But this princess still needs a king's protection," I said. My concentration's on my legs.

"Then this king shall gladly do so." His smile more pronounced."But it seemed I am also in need of protection."

"A king is symbolic. His every word are rules. Now, what will this princess do if the crowd heard you?" I playfully reminded.

By some means, We both made it through the end of the song. Father was slightly hobbling from our dance. Now I'm beginning to admire Luke. He made it look like he was fine when I kept hurting his foot.

I turned down all who wanted to have a dance with me afterward. I was a little disappointed with myself. I even declined Liam. My hormones were dancing when he spoke with me. I can't help it. His looks are so fine.

But I was tired. Even my feminine soul can't keep me away from resting.

I chose an inconspicuous place at the corner and sat down. For the time being, I wanted to be out of the spotlight.

Mother is still enjoying herself out there. Even Ginger is with a partner.

"Nice moves." A voice came from behind. Even without turning, I know whose that voice belonged.

In my mind I was yelling, 'Go away!'

"It's original." I reacted. Gosh, I chose the wrong place to rest.

"It is~ one step and hobble, seems fun," he said in his amusement.

It took six steps! Da****!

"Try it." I turned my head and said, "it's better than being the loner on the sidelines."

What's your deal you arms-folding-hiding-in -the-corner wallflower?

"Let me tell you that this loner doesn't choke on food." He retorted.