The evening stars

Acquaintance

The Wednesday evening turned out to be warm and festive. Alex and Rachel's house was decorated with balloons, garlands, and bright flags, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. At the entrance, guests were greeted by a large poster that read "Happy Birthday, Sam!" along with a photo of a girl in her favorite outfit.

Inside the house, the atmosphere was no less joyful. In the living room stood a long table, covered with a snow-white tablecloth, adorned with flowers and candles. On the table were laid out treats: mini sandwiches, fruit platters, candies, and of course, a large cake decorated with cream and glitter, topped with seven candles — one for each year of Sam's life.

The guests began to gather even before evening arrived. Among them were Sam's friends, her classmates, family acquaintances, and of course, Sophie, who couldn't miss this important event. Sophie arrived a little earlier to help Rachel with the final preparations. She brought beautifully wrapped gifts for Sam, which she carefully placed on a special table designated for gifts. There were already various bright boxes, bundles, and bags lying on it.

When all the guests had gathered, Rachel announced the start of the celebration. Cheerful music started playing, and the children immediately rushed to the entertainment areas that had been prepared for them in the garden. There was a tiny trampoline, a play area for ball games, and even a small stage where children could sing and dance.

Sam was the center of attention, glowing with happiness in her new dress that she picked out with her mom. It was pink with shiny elements and a fluffy skirt, which made her look like a princess. The girl joyfully accepted congratulations, smiled and laughed, relishing every moment.

Sophie looked around, trying to find her best friend Nigel among the guests. Nigel, invited by Sophie for the photo shoot, skillfully captured every significant moment. He was photographing children laughing and playing, Sam blowing out the candles on the cake, and Sophie with Rachel, who were hugging each other and laughing. Every photo taken by Nigel was filled with the warmth and joy of that evening.

Nigel was, as always, attentive to detail. He observed every moment of the celebration, capturing the most sincere and touching scenes through his lens. But even through the lens of the camera, he noticed something interesting.

When Sophie approached him, her eyes sparkled with joy, and there was something particularly beautiful about her face that evening. But that was not what caught Nigel's attention. Alex was standing aside, by the drinks table. His dark eyes followed Sophie, as if searching for something special in her movements and words. He looked calm, but there was a focus in his gaze that did not escape the attentive Nigel.

— It seems like you're the center of attention today, — said Nigel, smiling, but his gaze was focused on Alex.

Sophie looked at Nigel, not immediately understanding what he was talking about.

"What do you mean?" she asked, noticing how Nigel slightly tilted his head towards Alex.

— Just an observation, — Nigel replied with a slight smile. — It seems you made an impression not only on the guests. Look at that handsome guy.

Sophie involuntarily followed his advice and turned around. Alex stood, leaning against the back of the chair, and his gaze was indeed fixed on her. When their eyes met, Alex didn't look away; he just smiled slightly. Sophie felt her heart race and quickly turned away, trying to hide her embarrassment.

— He's just watching the celebration, — Sophie tried to respond calmly, although a slight uncertainty was evident in her voice.

Nigel just smiled, looking at his friend. He knew her well enough to notice when she was trying to hide her emotions. Alex's attention was not accidental, and Nigel understood that.

— Maybe, — he said gently, returning to his cell, — or maybe not. In any case, be careful, Sophie. It seems that this evening is becoming more and more interesting.

Rachel, smiling, approached Sophie, took her by the hand, and with shuffling steps headed together with her towards the man who was standing aside with a glass of red wine. Alex, with his confident posture and dark eyes, radiated calmness and strength. He turned to them and smiled as Rachel spoke.

— Sophie, let me introduce you to my husband, Alex, — Rachel said with a hint of pride in her voice. — Alex, this is my dear friend Sophie. We have known each other for an eternity.

Alex took a step forward and extended his hand. His gaze was focused on Sophie, and something warm flickered in his eyes as he said:

— Nice to meet you, Sophie. I have already heard about you; Rachel often mentions your friendship.

Sophie felt her cheeks flush with blood. She always believed that she could keep herself composed, but now she suddenly felt a slight awkwardness. Taking his hand, she tried to smile, but her embarrassment gave her away.

— Very nice to meet you, Alex, — she said softly, lowering her gaze. — Rachel has told me a lot about you too.

Sophie felt Alex's gaze literally piercing her, and this only embarrassed her even more. It seemed that his eyes could see not only her appearance but also her thoughts, her feelings. She hurried to add something else to hide her embarrassment.

— I'm glad you moved to Chicago, — she said with a smile, trying to be friendly. — Rachel is so happy to be back, and Sam is a wonderful girl. We had a great time at the ice rink.

Alex continued to look at her as if trying to understand what lay behind her words. His smile grew a little wider, and he nodded.

— Thank you, Sophie. We are also happy to be here. And Sam seems to have found a wonderful teacher in you. And yes, you skate incredibly beautifully.

Sophie felt her heart stop for a moment. She nodded quietly, not knowing what else to say. He saw her skating, Sophie didn't understand why this news felt so sweetly burdensome in her body. At that moment, Rachel laughed cheerfully and, sensing the growing tension, took control of the situation.

— Well, now you are already acquainted! — she said, looking at both of them. — I am sure that you will become friends.

Sophie just smiled in response, hoping that her embarrassment wasn't too noticeable.

The celebration lasted a long time. The children were playing, the adults were chatting, and the house was filled with the sounds of laughter and music. For Sam, it was a magical evening that she will remember for a long time. For Sophie, it was yet another moment that strengthened her bond with Alex and Rachel's family, opening up new opportunities and, perhaps, unexpected turns in life.