Life Straight Up (reposted - feedback wanted)

Chapter Ten

With my arm linked with Helena, we walked out of the house and entered the party. All the chairs that had been set up for the naming ceremony, had been moved and rearranged. There were now round tables scattered everywhere, with a bar and buffet set up at the far end. A second marquee had been set up where the DJ and the dance floor were located. Already people were dancing, drinking and having fun. The loud music filled the air and pulled me to the dance floor. Taking Helena with me, we made our way and danced along with everyone else. Helena swayed more than danced, but I just let my hair down and went wild. It felt like forever since I had last lost myself to the music. I could hear Helena laugh at me as I swayed my hips and threw my arms in the air. I could feel the eyes on me as I danced, but I was well aware that no one would approach, they would have to be an idiot to even try, knowing who I was. It kind of in powered me a little. A few moments later I couldn't help but notice Helena was looking a little uncomfortable.

"Hey Hel, are you ok?" I asked.

"Yeah, I just think I've had enough for now," she replied smiling, rubbing her stomach.

"Ok sweetie. How about you go find us some seats and I'll grab us both a drink," I said giving her hand a squeeze.

She nodded in reply before waddling over to the seating area. With a massive smile on my face I walked over to the bar, with a skip in my step. Many people wished me a happy birthday as I walked past, some even going as far as giving me a hug. I had to admit that it felt a little strange, especially as I had only met most of them yesterday. Even so they really made me feel loved and respected. Finally reaching the bar, I stood and looked out into the party. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, a lot of the younger guests were out on the dance floor and the older ones sat chatting over drinks. Everything seemed at peace, everything was good.

"Did you want a drink?" I heard someone say from behind me.

"Oh, ummm yes please," I replied slightly startled, turning towards the bartender.

"What can I get you?" he asked with a big smile on his face.

"Just some bottles of water please," I replied, smiling back at him.

He nodded and walked towards one of the mini fridges, as I waited I couldn't help but think he looked familiar. I just couldn't place him.

"There you go, two chilled bottles of water," he said placing them on the bar.

"Thanks," I answered, picking up the drinks.

"You know it's nice to see you happy now," he said suddenly, confusing me greatly.

"Excuse me?" I asked, still puzzled by his comment.

"Sorry that probably sounded totally random," he said quickly putting his hands in the air, making me shrug. "Sorry it's just the last time I served you, you seemed pretty pissed off and were drowning your sorrows," he continued, placing his hands back on the bar.

I stood there for a moment still confused, as he grabbed a cloth and wiped down the sides. As he began to whistle, something in my head just clicked. He was the bartender who served me the night I met Cole. I just couldn't remember his name, I'm pretty sure Cole had said it when he arrived, but right now it eluded me. I think it was something like Jonathan or Nick or... Nathan. His name was Nathan.

"It's Nathan, isn't it?" I asked, hoping I hadn't just made myself look like an idiot.

"Yep that's me," he replied with a goofy grin.

"If I'm honest I'm a little foggy about that night," I said sheepishly.

"I'm not surprised, I do believe tequila was your poison of choice that night," he said smirking.