Anchored Fault Lines

Chapter 6

Begin

Lauricia

Clarianna's birthday approached us in a blink of an eye. It was just three days ago when Davino and I talked about it in his apartment. Unfortunately, getting her birthday gift didn't go as planned when I met an injury during our cheerdance practice, concluding the day in pain.

So, I ended up purchasing Clara's gift online that would probably be delivered in a month. I know she'll understand. Besides, it wasn't a normal online purchase since I had to pull connections for it to be successful.

Scanning my eyes throughout the venue, the lights attached to the pale pillars sparkled against my skin, tables were occupied by wine glasses, and hands were wrapped around invitations that are most likely unopened.

Men gathered around in their structured blazer—perfectly tailored for this occasion—while they chatter a conversation evoking a sense of authority with every flick of their wrists and fingers in the air. On the balmier side of the banquet was found the women in mid-length dresses, gently gleaming against the soft lighting in quiet giggles and compliments. Everyone was well-dressed semi-formally.

I was wearing a tube top in burgundy, allowing me to accessorize a gold chain around my neck, my hair in an updo. I was also wearing high-waisted wide leg pants as my bottoms, para rin maitago ko ang flats na suot since I was unable to wear heels due to my injury. May mga balot pa kasi ang paa ko kaya gusto ko rin maitago.

Completing the look, my lips dared a deep berry color, eyes seething under the shadows of brown, framed by a winged eyeliner that's been smudged a little to give a sultry finish. A growing smile flashed across my face, ready to veil a personality just for these people.

"I don't suggest mingling in conversations at times like this." My mother whispered her opinion just behind me the moment we took a step inside the venue. "Better keep your mouth shut, Lauri, and avoid any more embarrassments for the family."

I ignored her remarks and continued appreciating the place.

The birthday banquet is located a few meters at the back of the main house of the Cleantro's manor, where the greenery is sighted and the glass conservatory stood proud at the center. Inside the conservatory is the astonishing catering work for the event where the reception is. Guests are being directed to their respective tables with smiles drowned in murmurs from the people who arrived first.

My eyes found the patterned flooring in the middle, where I assumed the dancing would take place. Long, viney flower arrangements crawled on the ceiling, hanging down looking like a wilted center piece, as if an acting replacement for a chandelier.

Refreshments are located at the far right by the entrance where some of the invited elites are probably sharing gossip about the latest tea in their circle. Might be the rumors about me. I rolled my eyes at the thought.

Some are also staying outside the area, standing at the high-top tables, drinking their wine and sharing measured laughter—perhaps about a dad joke that's been already used for a decade.

We ran into the Cliffords upon arriving, making both my parents stuck in a conversation with them. Now, I share a table with no one but my freezing hands and a wandering gaze, trying to look for an image I longed to see even if it's only been a day since.

I heaved a sigh as I looked down at my share of red wine. I was also situated outside the area with no plans of coming back to find familiar faces owning names that won't even ring a bell to me once this ends. I still find it hard to name each and every family gathered here tonight. I can only name a few including our own.