English Version: Sands & Sparrow

37

"Double time, people! Move faster!" Mrs. Poulain clapped her hands twice in a hurry to remind the staff. The chefs were busy as her restaurant served at the event. Mrs. Poulain picked up the chopping knife and cut the vegetables vertically. She glanced over at the sous chef and scowled, "How's the soup?"

Her eyes narrowed as the sous chef applied the seasoning. Mrs. Poulain's mouth tightened into a thin, straight line, "Too much, too much!"

The kitchen was engulfed in the sound of beaters, knives, and wooden boards. Cooking oil hissed on the hot frying pan, and flames leaped and danced in the air when one of the chefs jiggled the pot while mixing all the ingredients. Whole roasted chickens turned on spits. Huge platters of meat were stuffed with savory fruits and nuts. Fish and clams were drizzled in flavorful concoctions.

Aveline took one of the dishes and presented it to Mrs. Poulain for a final inspection, which scrutinized the details. Then, she nodded in approval, ensuring the recipe was perfect before serving.

Aveline tapped the bell, signaling for the waiter. Wearing a tuxedo, the head waiter entered the kitchen and took the tray.

One of the employees entered the kitchen and approached Mrs. Poulain for a conversation. "That's nonsense!" Mrs. Poulain let out an exasperated sigh when she heard the news.

"We're having a hard time, Mrs. Poulain. We need more servers. It's full out there."

"The publicist didn't give us a proper list of people; now, we must make adjustments."

She sighed deeply.

Aveline sensed the distress. "Is there a problem, Mrs. Poulain?"

She briefly smiled. "We're short-staffed today. We need more waiters to serve the guests."

"The kitchen is fine, Mrs. Poulain. I'd like to extend my help if it's okay with you," Aveline offered by starting to remove her chef's hat.

Mrs. Poulain's face brightened. "Can you do it? Thank you! Thank you!"

Aveline smiled and nodded.

"There's an extra uniform in the office. You can use it. Oh, you are an angel today, Aveline." Mrs. Poulain brushed her palms together, her eyes glinting with joy.

When Aveline stepped out of the kitchen, her eyes widened in amazement. The hall was exquisite; its walls glistened with substantial colorful screens, and a shimmering crystal chandelier hung above the tables in the center of the ceiling. At the end of the hall, French doors were left slightly ajar, guarded by two men wearing white gloves and tuxedos. The polished silver cutlery felt heavy in the hand and shone brightly in the evening light. A tall, empty wine glass stood at each setting, accompanied by beautifully folded napkins that matched the tablecloths. Guests, all dressed in formal attire, included famous figures from politics, business, and elite societies seated and being served. The servers, elegant in their tuxedos, moved silently, keeping platters and glasses full.

Aveline slightly fidgeted as she brushed the creases out of her skirt, suddenly feeling self-conscious. Despite her nervousness, she managed to remain in control. Taking a tray of wine glasses, she served the guests, lowering her head to avoid the flashing cameras while some reporters conducted interviews.

Polite conversations among the upper class could be heard between the lights and glamour enveloping the space.

Near the stage, an orchestra played, the conductor casually waving his baton in tune with the symphony. The sounds of violins, cellos, pianos, and cymbals spread across the room.

Celebrities posed for the glittering cameras, and across the room, the press sat separately in front of the stage at a long table, microphones placed on its surface.