Personal Narrative: Nova's Meals

A puddle of water condenses in a ring around the cold cup as I shake my leg under the table, trying to decide how to go about ordering a meal… Joon’s meal – 1150, Coralie’s meal – 1060, Nova’s meal – 660, Ky’s meal – 310
My stomach turns as the numbers cross my mind, Nova’s voice behind the numbers, ordering for me. She’s trying… She got me a salad, but 310 calories… Nova peaks over at me, a reassuring smile finding her lips. God, I love you. The numbers hidden in the plates find their places in front of each of us. The drenched greens laugh at me from behind the rough croutons. Everyone digs into their calories, not thinking twice about the numbers. I feel light headed… You should eat something – No, I can’t… I won’t… The earthy plate spins, taunting me. I cough up some excuse of needing to wash my hands before eating and slip out of the side door. …show more content…
My breath hiccups as my anxiety takes control of my lungs. I close my eyes and give into the paralyzing panic. Honey drips into my ears, and velvet caresses my arm, rippling over the scars. My eyes flutter open, struggling against the bright sun. Greens focus on blues as Nova is squatting next to me, her lavender scented hands brushing my hoodie sleeve back. She sighs and pulls me to my feet. We shakily walk back to our booth, my friend’s eyes landing heavily on my