Vinyl would find out just how her meal tasted, don't worry. At this point, things like that were important to her. With Vinyl's sudden elation, feeling as if she was taking the first positive steps in her life in a long time, she was easily appeased. The stress and worry from the day before felt almost as if it was a distant memory at that moment, or so she has said. Unfortunately, this was only her first step into recovery.
At this moment in time, as Vinyl scoffed profiteroles and engaged in small talk, she didn't think about her recent outburst. Neither did she think of her unresolved issues, or what the rest of her friendship lessons might entail. In fact, she didn't think about much at all.
This was Vinyl's favoured state of mind, likely because it was so rare. She found it very difficult to dissociate with her surroundings and exercise tranquility, so when the feeling came over her, she welcomed it. For once, her head was merciful, her mind clear, quiet and free, and she was able to truly breathe. When she finished eating, she did not immediately leave for her room, opting to stay and clean up. Such menial tasks were also a chance for her to relax.
Unfortunately, her placidity couldn't last forever, it never did. I've mentioned before that Vinyl is a very intelligent pony, but intelligence often belies sense. While Vinyl may have been good at controlling her life, to a degree, she knew that some things were out of her control. She could not keep her mind quiet, nor could she stop her strength from ebbing away as fatigue set in. She could, however, convince herself that she didn't need her headphones tonight, and would be able to sleep without them. She was wrong.
Begrudgingly comforted by the sound of her playlist, Vinyl would consider many things that night, her mind not the calm, ebbing sea it had been earlier. She would think to the future, considering what was to come next for her. She would think of the ponies that she kept determined for, and of the rewards her hard work brought. I sometimes wonder if she knew at that moment whether she was pushing forward for her own health, or just to make everypony else happy.
As Vinyl drew closer to an exhaustion imposed slumber, the intensity of her thoughts was mitigated. She thought of the ponies she had met recently: The alicorn princess that was to become her mentor, the boastful and cheeky unicorn with the brilliant smile, the strong and caring mother with the equally strong voice, the captivating pegasus with a penchant to playfully mock her. Vinyl thought of all of these ponies, one in particular slightly more than the others, though only her subconscious realised it then.
The next part of the story details Vinyl's adjustment to new friendships, and a significantly more pony filled life. She would learn more of herself as she went, her opinions, preferences, and feelings for others alike.
Suffice to say that she would remain almost completely clueless in regards to romance.