Chapter 24

It was a cold, windy night.

Due to the heavy snowfall a few days ago, snowbanks had formed all over the town. Today, more snow was falling lightly, and the unconsolidated snowflakes were dancing in the wind, creating a fantastical and beautiful scene.

Being close to the bustling area, the noise of the city carried on the wind. The cheerful laughter was enough to bring a smile to my lips.

The destination was a small alley at the edge of the dining district—Tearoom Terrible. The warm lamplight seemed to welcome me gently as always.

"Good evening."

I called out as I opened the door.

There were two customers inside, sitting at a table.

No one was at the counter, of course, and Noah, who usually sat there, was nowhere to be seen.

"Welcome, Alicia."

"I'll have a hot wine and something light from the recommendations, please."

"Understood. White wine? Red? Rosé?"

"Rosé today."

While hanging my coat on the back of the chair, I placed my order with Emma. Emma smiled and nodded, then turned to the chef in the kitchen. The chef, who had been listening to the order, also nodded.

Leaning my cheek on the counter, I watched Emma and the chef in the kitchen. They seemed to be having a conversation, and Emma was laughing heartily, patting the chef's shoulder.

Their usual friendly interaction was so heartwarming that it brought a smile to my face just by watching.

I glanced at the seat next to me.

He, who usually sat here, wasn't here today. We were just acquaintances who might meet and drink together if we did. I had spent many nights drinking alone before, but today, knowing he wouldn't come, felt particularly lonely.

"Here you are."

A sweet fragrance wafted through the air.

Drawn by the scent, I looked up to see Emma holding a steaming glass. The glass placed in front of me was a beautiful one with a handle on the stem, and intricate designs adorned the lower part.

The glass was filled with a light rose-colored wine. Inside, there were thin slices of apple and three small strawberries. The sight was so adorable that my spirits lifted.

"Wow, it's cute."

"Feel free to mash the strawberries to your liking."

Taking the wooden spoon she offered, I immediately took a sip from the glass.

The wine was sweet and tangy, perhaps a characteristic of the original wine. The sweetness of the fruit spread, and it was delicious. The sweetness was so dessert-like that I sighed in delight.

"Delicious. Is the sweetness from honey?"

"Yes, and we added star anise for the fragrance."

"Star anise, the one with the unique shape? The eight-pointed, spiky one..."

"Yes, it's also used in baking."

"That's why it was a familiar scent."

Understanding, I took another sip of the wine. The sweetness was strong, but the taste was light.

"...Have you lost weight?"

The chef, who had approached silently, placed a deep plate in front of me. Surprised by the chef's deep voice, which I hadn't heard in a while, I widened my eyes. Emma chuckled and shrugged her shoulders.

"Our chef doesn't talk much. But it's true... Alicia, have you lost a bit of weight?"

"Really?"

"I think your jawline has become a bit thinner. You're already so slim, so you need to eat properly."

"Hehe, I've been busy lately."

"Don't overwork yourself."

"Thank you."

I touched my jaw, but I couldn't really tell. Still, I was grateful for their concern and thanked them. Emma and the chef smiled gently and returned to the kitchen.

Today's recommendation seemed to be a pot-au-feu.

Large pieces of vegetables, meat, and salmon were included. The colors were beautiful and appetizing. ...Yes, I can eat this properly.

After offering a prayer of gratitude, I picked up the spoon.

First, I tasted the amber-colored soup, which had a gentle consomme flavor. It was so delicious that the word "soothing" fit perfectly.

Next, I tried the carrot. It was incredibly sweet and very tender.

The beef was so tender it fell apart and was full of flavor. The turnip melted in my mouth, and the slightly salty salmon went well with the soup.

Even though it was so delicious, there was no one to share it with.

Even though I could see him again, the sudden urge to meet him must be because I'm in love, right?

Putting down the spoon, I picked up the glass. Drinking the still-steaming wine, I felt a warm, comforting sensation in my stomach.

Using the wooden spoon, I lightly mashed a strawberry, and the sweet fragrance spread instantly. The wine became cloudy, but it still looked delicious.

I scooped up the strawberries floating in the glass with the spoon. Eating them, the freshness spread in my mouth, and my cheeks relaxed. The wine's fragrance lingered afterward, and I think this will become a favorite.

"...Delicious."

No one responded to my whispered words.

No, I knew that. It's not in my nature to mope forever. I'll see him again eventually.

Half convincing myself, I ate the apple from the wine. The crisp texture of the apple was gone, but it was still delicious and more infused with the wine than the strawberries. When I placed it on the spoon, it was slightly rose-colored.

I ate it all at once and drank the wine quickly. Emptying the glass, I raised my hand.

"Emma, can I have another glass of this wine?"

"Sure. You liked it?"

"Yes, it's incredibly delicious. And this pot-au-feu too. The vegetables and meat are tender but not mushy at all."

"Our chef is very meticulous."

Hearing this, the chef nodded slightly. I think he was blushing a bit, but it wasn't just my imagination.

"If you want more pot-au-feu or something else, just let us know. We can make it for you."

"Okay, thank you."

Emma, who had been called to a table, came out from the end of the counter and patted my shoulder before heading over. The large flower in her hair suited her well today.

While waiting for the second glass of wine, I enjoyed the pot-au-feu leisurely.

I didn't feel any heaviness in my chest. There was no pain.

I just thought that it would have been even more delicious to enjoy it together. I think that's a reasonable thought.

Today's meal at Tearoom Terrible was delicious.

But I was already feeling full from the pot-au-feu.

Thank you for always reading!

I would be very grateful for bookmarks and reviews.

Thank you very much.