Mania

Lesson 14. Regrets

Clemence was always one to be reserved when it came to alcohol, an item often at the dinner table as she she took diligent and small sips to accompany a meal, so as to never consume more than she could handle. She had never even reached a stage near tipsy but tonight, with Erin using her wide smile and bright eyes in the direction of the young, nervous waiter, she was stocking the table with a rich supply of wine and Clemence, keen for a distraction, felt suitably buzzed.

It was Friday night and Erin had arranged a night out, having booked them a table at one of the more expensive restaurants in town, saying that they all deserved to treat themselves and splash out for once.

Clemence was certainly enjoying herself, she spoke easier, laughed more, cheeks flushed, ruffled hair and perspiring skin as the girls sat closed together, careless and carefree.

The waiter came over again and set down their main courses, flashing a grin at Erin which she returned appreciatively. Abigail rolled her eyes as she watched.

'Sure Tim would be happy about that?' She muttered and Erin scoffed.

'It's harmless! I'm doing us all a favour.' She motioned to the wine and Abigail shrugged in defeat, taking another sip.

Clemence had already begun to eat, feeling the alcohol bubble around her system, trying to cushion the restless electric energy with food.

'Where's the waiter gone?' Abigial asked, frowning. 'I wanted more cheese.'

Abigail began to crane her neck, searching across the restaurant for the young boy when her gaze halted abruptly and her eyes widened. She spluttered a laugh.

'Oh boy, you'll never guess who I just clocked eyes on.' Abigail muttered, grinning and looking away.

Erin tilted her head, chewing delicately as she looked over. 'Who are you-ohhh!'

Erin laughed and nudged Clemence. 'Look over there Clem.' She titled at head and Clemence followed her eyes, scanning the room of foreign faces.

'What are you talking about?'

'Right in front of you dumby, stop looking over there!' Erin jerked her head and Clemence sat straight, lifting her chin to peer through the tables in front of her, searching across unfamiliar faces until she saw him

'Oh.'

It was Leon, sitting directly across from her position at her table but obscured by a handful of diners in front. He appeared to be seated in a booth, surrounded by men and women, in suits and cocktail dresses, who spoke quickly and excitedly, hand gestures and laughter. He was leaning back in his chair, nodding, Clemence could pick out his dark grey suit jacket and white shirt underneath. His body shifted occasionally when he spoke, his face less animated and gestures less grand than the others but still, his movements magnetising those around him to look and Clemence could not tear her eyes away.

'I don't think it matters how old you get, seeing teachers outside of school is still weird.' Abigail grimaced

'Mmmm.' Clemence hummed in agreement, spearing her pasta with her fork, her stomach turning in equal parts excitement and nervousness, her appetite dwindling as she tried her best not to look up.

'Oh my god, he's laughing, actually laughing. Never thought I would see the day.' Erin giggled and Clemence was compelled to look, immediately finding his face through the sea of people.

He had leant forward in his seat now, hands moving quickly as he gestured something, a small smile on his lips as he spoke to the woman opposite him. And then he laughed a wide smile on his face and eyes creasing, the look on his face so alien to what Clemence had ever experienced.