The dishes served at Melany’s birthday celebration were nothing short of magnificent.
Despite this, each guest was lost in their own thoughts, and regrettably, the culinary masterpieces went largely unappreciated.
As the evening continued, the servers brought in new platters, and a particular dish of golden fish immediately caught Elizabeth’s attention.
Billie, taking on the role of hostess, explained with a hint of pride, “This was caught just after twilight, directly from the ocean.”
Those gathered, well-versed in gourmet cuisine, recognized instantly the rarity of the fish before them.
The wild yellow croaker, a delicacy that commands thousands per pound, shimmered on the platter. Its value increased due to its unique golden hue, achieved by shielding it from light. Unlike its daytime-caught counterparts, which often needed artificial enhancement in freezers to attain a similar golden luster, this fish was naturally exquisite.
With a ceremonial gesture, Billie filled a small bowl with the tender belly of the fish and presented it to Melany. “Try this, Melany.”
Melany, however, delicately passed the bowl to Elizabeth with a gracious smile. “They say consuming fish blesses mothers with beauty and their children with wisdom. Elizabeth, perhaps it’s time to bless the James family with a bright son.”
Melany’s comment, elegant yet pointed, served more than one purpose. Not only did it touch upon the topic of motherhood, but it also tactfully quashed the whispers of a potential divorce circulating among their circle, reinforcing her standing while subtly guiding the conversation away from scandal.
Elizabeth clearly understood what Melany was hinting at, and with a gentle smile, she graciously accepted the bowl with both hands, murmuring a heartfelt, “Thank you, Melany.”
Kailee, seemingly distracted, idly played with her food, her gaze lingering on Elizabeth as she moved.
No sooner had Elizabeth set down her cutlery than Kailee, seizing the moment, eagerly chimed in, “Albin, there are fireworks tonight! Would you play the piano for us?”
Albin, despite his modest career achievements, came from a distinguished family that had instilled in him a rich education in the arts from an early age.
He had particularly excelled in music during his college years, securing numerous accolades at international piano competitions.
“Hmm?” Albin, caught off guard by the mention, quickly finished the shrimp he was eating and looked up, a trace of confusion in his voice. “Why this sudden desire to hear me play?”
With a sly smile, Kailee feigned innocence. “It just hit me—I can’t remember the last time I heard your music.”
