Conversation flows easily as we discuss my siblings, future family events, and the excitement around my dress in the upcoming fashion show.
I laugh at the right places, nod along, feeling utterly at ease. I keep waiting for the right opening, but I'm not in a rush. I want this to be perfect.
The first course arrives. It's a delicate composition arranged like a sculpture rather than food. Raw oysters are balanced on stoneware, and a thin mist of smoke escapes as the server lifts a glass dome.
"Wow," Mom gushes.
"Amazing," I agree, then take a bite, closing my eyes and letting the clean yet complex flavors bloom.
Everything about this night feels aligned, like I chose correctly simply by showing up. The universe is winking at me and I can feel it!
As the courses progress, I grow more animated. I talk faster, gesture more, laugh more freely.
Mom's gaze lingers on me a little longer than usual, her head tilting slightly, like she's trying to read between lines I haven't said out loud yet.
She eventually smiles bigger and says, "You seem really happy, Blue."
I grin. "I am."
Dad studies me over the rim of his wineglass but doesn't comment.
"That's great, sweetie. It's nice to see you doing so well," Mom adds.
"I am. Best I've ever been," I confirm.
The server arrives and refills our wineglasses. My heart gives a small, excited jump.
This is my moment.
I straighten in my chair, take another sip, and let the words settle into place. I keep my tone casual and light, like I've rehearsed a hundred times. "I wanted to tell you something amazing!"
Mom arches her eyebrows, still smiling.
Dad sets his glass down. "Well, we love good news."
I nod. "It is. The best news!"
"What is it?" Mom asks, leaning closer.
I blurt out, "I'm seeing someone."
Surprise flickers across Mom's face before she recovers. "Oh?"
Dad's jaw ticks, and the air shifts just a little, like pressure building.
To be expected. He's always going to want to protect me,I remind myself.
"Yes," I continue, buoyed by how easy this feels. "It's…good. Really good."
Mom leans forward slightly. "How long have you been seeing this person?"
"Not long," I admit, still smiling. "But it feels right."
Her smile recalibrates. "And who is he?"
My heart pounds harder. "Red." I smile so big, it hurts.
The buzz of the dining room collapses to nothing but Mom, Dad, and me.
