Total pages in book: 125
Estimated words: 124836 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 624(@200wpm)___ 499(@250wpm)___ 416(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 124836 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 624(@200wpm)___ 499(@250wpm)___ 416(@300wpm)
She took a deep breath and for a moment, our eyes met.
Are you okay?
I tried to convey reassurance to silently tell her that everything would be perfect because she was the most exquisite being to ever enter the East.
I mouthed the words, I love you.
To my shock, her eyes flickered with fear and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was terribly wrong.
Did something happen? Who do I need to hurt?
Turning away from me, Moni properly began the tea ceremony by pouring a small amount of hot water into the teapot to awaken the leaves. It was supposed to be a gesture in symbolizing the awakening of the senses and the opening of the heart.
And her movements were absolutely graceful but again. . .I noticed the slight trembling of her hands as she held the pot.
No. This isn’t just regular nervousness. I think it’s something more.
I gritted my teeth, wondering what I should do next.
Everything in my heart wanted me to take her out of the room and ask her what was wrong.
The cameras flashed.
The reporters, with their notepads and microphones, remained focused.
What if I abruptly stopped her and nothing was even wrong?
It could ruin her moment and I would never forgive myself.
Am I just being too overprotective right now?
Moni poured the water carefully.
I couldn’t see it but I imagined the tea leaves swirled gently in the pot, releasing their essence.
Her face was a mask of concentration but those eyes were still full of terror.
Under the table, I fisted my hands forcing myself to remain in my chair and not ruin this moment.
Meanwhile, the subtle aroma of her blend began to fill the room mingling with the scent of cherry blossoms.
Fuck. This smells so good.
Aunt Suzi gave a soft clap.
Aunt Min shushed her.
My father nodded and whispered to himself. “I smell lavender. Very good.”
Pride hit me.
However, despite the beauty of the ceremony and the genius of her blend, I could still see the strain in her posture.
What are you nervous about? You’re doing amazing.
Could something have happened between my saying goodbye to her this morning and now?
Was it her sisters in the East?
Did Marcelo or Banks call and upset her?
I leaned toward Chen and whispered. “Where is Ming Yui?”
Chen blinked his eyes. “She’s in the dungeon below the palace. I didn’t want her to cause any more trouble this week.
So, Ming Yui didn’t happen to come around and bother her.
What could it be?
Moni took another deep breath and turned to the reporters. When she began to speak, her voice was steady and clear. "I am deeply honored to be part of this tea ceremony.”
One of the reporters smiled, surely loving the experience.
Moni glanced at me.
I gave her a small, encouraging nod, hoping to ease her nerves.
She returned her view to the reporters, "It is my hope to embrace the East's traditions with the utmost respect and to contribute to the preservation and celebration of this beautiful culture."
To my surprise and probably everyone else, Aunt Suzi clapped and Aunt Min huffed.
Stop it. She’s nervous.
More flashing came from the cameras.
Moni swept her gaze across the room, ensuring she connected with each person present.
Perfect.
Chen leaned my way. “She’s doing just fine.”
I nodded.
She directed her attention to the reporters and gave them a welcoming smile. "Together, we can build a future that honors our past while moving forward with strength and unity.”
The room buzzed with excitement at her words and I couldn't help but feel another swell of pride as I watched her. I was learning more and more that Moni had a way with people that was so honest and pure and seeing her win over the hearts of the East with such grace and sincerity made me want to get on my knees and propose to her.
Father tilted my way and whispered. “Chanel could have never done this.”
I glared at him.
He shrugged and returned to watching her.
Moni took another deep breath. “I am committed to this journey and to each one of you."
The reporters were visibly thrilled, their cameras clicking rapidly, capturing every moment, and I could hear murmurs of admiration spreading through the group.
Even some of the cameramen nodded in approval.
Monique finished her speech. “I believe that. . .together, we will create a legacy of unity, respect, and shared dreams for generations to come.”
The applause was immediate and enthusiastic.
Reporters leaned forward, eager to ask questions even though now was not the time.
Again, I got that feeling of not wanting to share her with them.
It was a mix of pride and possessiveness.
Hmmm.
She was making a lasting impression. Her genuine respect and willingness to embrace our traditions would surely endear her to my people, ensuring their love and support.
But also. . .it could surge a crazy fandom.
Oh fuck. What did I do?
I could already see the admiration in the reporters’ eyes, the way they hung onto her every word. It wouldn't be long before her image graced the walls of many homes and her name spoken with affection among the food market and craft stalls. There might be dolls and other items made to look like her.