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After the toast, Rachel felt uneasy and annoyed that Leo had been watching her closely since she scoffed at her mother’s speech. She wondered why he was so mad at her for that. Celine, who was sitting next to her, noticed her discomfort and leaned in to whisper in her ear.
Just as everyone started getting better and the former atmosphere was beginning to resurface, another set of maids began to stream in. They were served a delicious and elegant meal, consisting of a variety of dishes.
The appetizers included a platter of fresh seafood, such as oysters, shrimp, and crab legs, with a lemon and herb dressing. The main course was a choice of either a succulent roast beef, or a pan-seared salmon with a white wine and dill sauce. The side dishes included a variety of vegetables, such as roasted root vegetables, and a selection of breads and pastries.
The guests were served by a team of waiters, who were dressed in formal attire. The table was set with sparkling crystal glasses, and elegant silverware.
As the guests enjoyed their meal, they chatted and laughed, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. The guests took their time to savor the delicious food and the wine that was being served. They enjoyed the company and the conversation, and the dinner felt like a family gathering.
“Looks like your betrothed can’t take his eyes off of you, Rachel. I think he’s smitten.” Celine leaned towards her and whispered before she looked back at Leo who was still watching Rachel intently. Rachel tightened her jaws as she noted his fierce eyes on her.
“Please, Celine. He’s just being rude and distant, or do you think that look is a good one. I don’t know what his problem is.” she replied, noting how Leo was still glaring at her. If looks were lazers, she would have been a goner.
“Well, I know what William’s problem is. He can’t stop looking at me with puppy eyes and I’m ignoring him.” Celine chipped in before straightening.
“Ha! Maybe you should give him a chance. He seems like a nice guy. Wait! You guys switched roles? You were complaining about him snubbing you all this while, so where is that coming from?”
“That doesnt matter right now, let’s enjoy the music and the company.” She said, obviously trying to avoid the question that was directed at her.
As the music swelled, Rachel’s mother took to the dance floor with a younger man, and the company became livelier. She moved with grace and elegance, her dress flowing behind her as she swayed to the music.
The younger man was a skilled dancer, and he led her expertly, their steps matching perfectly. They danced a lively and upbeat waltz that had everyone cheering and clapping. She wondered where her mother had learned all those moves, and the silence during when they stared at each other for a while said a lot. She wondered if they had just met or if they were possessed by the spirit of the dance.
The music that played during the dinner was a blend of classical and contemporary pieces, performed by a live orchestra.
The orchestra was made up of a group of talented musicians, who were dressed in formal attire. The string section consisted of a group of violinists, violists, cellists, and bassists, who played with precision and skill.
The guests were delighted by the sight of Madeline dancing, and they couldn’t help but smile and laugh at her energy and enthusiasm. She was laughing and having a great time, her face alight with joy. The younger man, who later introduced himself as Harry, was equally enthusiastic, and they both seemed to be enjoying each other’s company.
Leo approached Rachel and said “Rachel, would you like to dance with me?” Rachel was surprised and a bit hesitant, she noticed how rude he had been throughout the night and she was not in the mood to dance with him but not wanting to cause a scene, she rolled her eyes and obliged when she saw Rebecca looking at her.
As they took to the dance floor, Leo only stared at her, which unnerved her. She asked him if she had something plastered on her face.
The look on Leo’s face as he stared at Rachel was one of confusion and amusement. His eyebrows were furrowed, and his mouth was slightly open, as if he was trying to figure out what was going on in Rachel’s mind.
As they danced, Leo asked her again “Rachel, Why did you react to your mother’s speech that way?” Rachel didn’t give him an answer but kept dancing. She made sure to look away towards the crowd to avoid his poker-faced gaze.
“Rachel, I’m talking to you.” He said, breaking the silence. She was already getting pissed with his insistent questions. “Rachel!” He whisper-yelled, his teeth clenched.
“What?” she asked. “Can we not just talk about this, right now? She said, noting from the side of her eyes that Rebecca was watching them. Her thread patience was running very low and she didnt want it to run thin, not when Rebecca was around.
“I insist you answer my question.” He persisted, glaring straight at her. And that was the moment she lost it.
“Excuse me” She said, taking her hands off him and excusing herself from the dance floor feeling flustered and confused. Those who had seen what happened looked on as she left, genuine confusion on their faces.
“Rachel, I’m still talking to you” He said, tightening his jaws as he watched her leave and trying to keep his voice as low as possible. She didn’t even care to glance back as she walked out on him. His mother who noticed that something was off looked in his direction but he tried to reassure her with a smile. Gladly, she bought it.
Leo looked at her with confusion as she walked away, and the guests turned to look at her with shock. The music continued to play, but the atmosphere had become tense.