It is weird to think of Christian as a child. The memory of his burn scars come unbidden to my mind, but I quickly quash it. I don’t want to think about that now, though ironically, it’s the reason behind this party.
I wish Kate was here with Elliot. She would fit in so well—the sheer number of forks and knives laid out before her wouldn’t daunt Kate—she would command the table. I imagine her duking it out with Mia over who should be table head. The thought makes me smile.
The conversation at the table ebbs and flows. Mia is entertaining, as usual, and quite eclipses poor Sean, who mostly stays quiet like me. Christian’s grandmother is the most vocal. She, too, has a biting sense of humor, usually at the expense of her husband. I begin to feel a little sorry for Mr. Trevelyan.
Christian and Lance talk animatedly about a device Christian’s company is developing, inspired by Schumacher’s principle Small is Beautiful. It’s hard to keep up. Christian seems intent on empowering impoverished communities all over the world with wind–up technology—devices that need no electricity or batteries and minimal maintenance.
Watching him in full flow is astonishing. He’s passionate and committed to improving the lives of the less fortunate. Through his telecommunications company, he’s intent on being first to market with a wind–up mobile phone.
Whoa. I had no idea. I mean I knew about his passion about feeding the world, but this…
Lance seems unable to comprehend Christian’s plan to give the technology away and not patent it. I wonder vaguely how Christian made all his money if he’s so willing to give it all away.
Throughout dinner a steady stream of men in smartly tailored dinner jackets and dark masks stop by the table, keen to meet Christian, shake his hand, and exchange pleasantries. He introduces me to some but not others. I’m intrigued to know how and why he makes the distinction.
During one such conversation, Mia leans across and smiles.
«Ana, will you help in the auction?»
«Of course,” I respond only too willing.
By the time dessert is served, night has fallen, and I’m really uncomfortable. I need to get rid of the balls. Before I can excuse myself, the master of ceremonies appears at our table, and with him—if I’m not mistaken—is Miss European Pigtails.
What’s her name? Hansel, Gretel… Gretchen.
She’s masked of course, but I know it’s her when her gaze doesn’t move beyond Christian. She blushes, and selfishly I’m beyond pleased that Christian doesn’t acknowledge her at all.
The MC asks for our envelope and with a very practiced and eloquent flourish, asks Grace to pull out the winning bill. It’s Sean’s, and the silk–wrapped basket is awarded to him.
I applaud politely, but I’m finding it impossible to concentrate on any more of the proceedings.
«If you’ll excuse me,” I murmur to Christian.
He looks at me intently.
«Do you need the powder room?»
I nod.
«I’ll show you,” he says darkly.
When I stand, all the other men round the table stand with me. Oh, such manners.
«No, Christian! You’re not taking Ana—I will.»
Mia is on her feet before Christian can protest. His jaw tenses, I know he’s not pleased. Quite frankly, neither am I. I have… needs. I shrug apologetically at him, and he sits down quickly, resigned.
On our return, I feel a little better, though the relief of removing the balls has not been as instantaneous as I’d hoped. They’re now stashed safely in my clutch purse.
Why did I think I could last the whole evening? I am still yearning—perhaps I can persuade Christian to take me to the boathouse later. I flush at the thought and glance at him as I take my seat. He stares at me, the ghost of a smile crossing his lips.
Phew… he’s no longer mad at a missed opportunity, though maybe I am. I feel frustrated—irritable even. Christian squeezes my hand, and we both listen attentively to Carrick, who is back on stage talking about Coping Together. Christian passes me another card—a list of the auction prizes. I scan them quickly.
Auction Gifts And Gracious Donors for Coping Together
Signed Baseball Bat from the Mariners – Dr. Emily Mainwaring
Gucci Purse, Wallet & Keyring – Andrea Washington
One Day Voucher for Two at Esclava, Braeburn Center – Elena Lincoln
Landscape And Garden Design – Gia Matteo
Coco De Mer Coffret & Perfume Beauty Selection – Elizabeth Austin
Venetian Mirror – Mr. And Mrs. J. Bailey
Two Cases of Wine of Your Choice from Alban Estates – Alban Estates
2 VIP Tickets for XTY in Concert – Mrs. L. Yesyov
