Page 23 of Sweet Dominion

The Heart Signal

Lei

As Moni prepared to start the tea ceremony, everyone remained quiet and all cameras focused on her.

So beautiful.

She stood at the edge of the table, her fingers brushing over the elegant blue pot containing her blend.

The traditional cups—so beautifully crafted and laden with history—sat next to it, waiting to be filled.

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.

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