C'est la Vie: Mardi Gras: Ch. 01

“Tea is served!”

Amanda bends down and sets the wedgwood teapot on the table at the balcony. She proceeds on to fill up the tea cups and returns to her seat between Clavier and Brenda.

Calista sets the matching plates from the same wedgwood series on the table and sits on the other side of Clavier.

Clavier takes a sip of tea and comments, “today’s moon is beautiful.”

“It’s the same moon every day, Clavier,” Zachary answers as a matter-of-fact.

The five friends had always celebrated different occasions together. The most recent gathering was at Zachary’s house to celebrate National Day. This time, they gather at Clavier’s house for the Mid-autumn Festival.

Festive lanterns light up the quiet balcony with warm shades of orange.

Amanda and Calista snug closely to Clavier on each side, hugging each of his arms. Zachary’s arm wraps around Brenda’s shoulder as she leans on him. 

“Clavier, tell us that story again, will you?” Calista requests.

“Which story, Callie?”

“The confession during Mardi Gras.”

“I like to call it C’est la Vie,” Amanda adds.

“Are you all up for it again?” Clavier asks the rest.

He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, as if recalling events from a distant memory…