After the debate, Stella spotted Mallory near the exit. She made her way over, sensing the tension lingering around her friend. They left the building and walked to the car without a word, the silence thickening with each step. In the car, Mallory's gaze was fixed out the window, her expression unreadable, her shoulders set stiffly. Stella could tell Mallory was still simmering over the debate, and she knew why. Losing wasn't in Mallory's nature—she was fiercely competitive, and the sting of defeat, especially to Simon's side, had clearly gotten under her skin. Stella herself wasn't one to enjoy losing either, but she had to admit Simon's last point had been the clincher. There was something about the way he'd spoken, the conviction in his voice, that had sealed the argument in his favor.
As they pulled up to their place, a strange sense of bittersweet anticipation settled over Stella. It was hard to believe that in just a week, Simon and his classmates would be graduating. She would no longer see him strolling through campus, leaning against the library walls, or catching her eye from across the classroom. She'd gotten used to his presence more than she'd realized, and the thought of him being gone left her with an ache she hadn't expected. Trying to shake it off, she focused on the upcoming annual fair—a welcome distraction.
Back at college, the fair preparations had already started in full force. The campus was buzzing with activity as students transformed the grounds, setting up booths and hanging decorations. Posters were going up, music lists were being curated, and volunteers were already trying on costumes for the themed parade. Stella could feel the excitement building, a contagious energy that lifted her spirits. She loved the fair, loved seeing the campus come alive in vibrant colors and lively sounds. The idea of spending the whole day with her friends at the event, watching performances, enjoying the food stalls, and soaking in the festive atmosphere filled her with anticipation.
As she glanced at Mallory, who was still quiet but noticeably less tense, Stella hoped the fair would be a perfect chance to unwind and forget about today's debate. "Can't believe the fair is almost here," she said, trying to lighten the mood.
Mallory nodded, her lips curving slightly, though her eyes still held a trace of lingering frustration. "Yeah, it'll be a nice change of pace. We could use the break."
Stella smiled, knowing that despite today's tense silence, they'd both soon be caught up in the thrill of the fair, leaving behind debates and competitions—if only for a little while.
"First, you apply the moisturizer, then the toner, then the primer, and finally the camouflage cream in her shade—" Elizabeth started, her tone precise as she laid out each step like a carefully orchestrated routine.
"I know, I know, Gigi," Stella interrupted with a playful smile, gently taking the items from her grandmother and placing them in her makeup kit. She was a little nervous but excited; today was the annual fair, and she was responsible for doing Nora's makeup for the event.
Elizabeth chuckled, watching Stella's determined expression. "Well, Miss Know-It-All, just remember not to rush it. Makeup is about patience."
Stella grinned, zipping up the kit. "You know I've got this, Gigi. Besides, it's just Nora—we've been practicing all week."
Elizabeth gave her a knowing look. "Yes, but you only get one chance to make her shine today. And remember—light strokes with the brush. It's not a race."
"Stay safe," Elizabeth said, her voice filled with concern. "Should I send Mal with you?"
Stella let out a small sigh, shaking her head with a reassuring smile. "I'm not that weak, Gigi. I'll be fine, really. Nothing's going to happen," she insisted, hoping to ease her grandmother's worries. "Please stop worrying."
Elizabeth gave her a look, half-relieved, half-stern. "It's just—things have been... complicated lately. I'd feel better knowing someone was with you."
Stella took her grandmother's hand, squeezing it gently. "I'll be back before you know it. Just focus on enjoying your day, alright? I'll even bring you back some fair treats."
Elizabeth softened, finally nodding. "Alright, but you call me if anything feels off. Promise me that."
"Promise," Stella said, smiling.
As Stella stepped out of the parlor, a faint excitement tingled within her. She hadn't been this eager in a while, and the thought of the annual fair was making her heart race. But before diving into the fair's chaos, she needed to gather a few essentials from home.
Once inside, Stella moved quickly, packing her makeup kit, some snacks, and an extra jacket. She knew she'd be there all day, and she wanted to be prepared. After zipping her bag closed, she paused in the hallway and glanced toward Mallory's room. She had hoped Mallory might change her mind about joining her today.
Quietly, she stepped inside and spotted Mallory seated at her desk, textbooks spread out in front of her, deep in concentration. Her sister's face was set, focused, her fingers tapping rhythmically against the pen she held. Stella knew Mallory could be relentless when it came to studying, but there was still a glimmer of hope that she might convince her to come along.
Stella cleared her throat and picked up the car keys from Mallory's desk. "Hey, you sure you don't want to come?" she asked, her voice carrying a slight plea.
Mallory finally looked up, a faint smile crossing her lips. "I'm not coming, Stels. I have too much to get through," she said with a shrug. Then, with a hint of warmth in her tone, she added, "But…have fun, stay safe. And good luck. I know you'll do great."
Stella returned her sister's smile, though a slight pang of disappointment lingered. "Alright, alright. I'll tell you all about it later," she said, rolling her eyes playfully.
Mallory gave a small nod before turning back to her books, her mind already diving back into study mode. Stella lingered for a moment, watching her sister's dedication, feeling a swell of pride and affection. She knew Mallory was always looking out for her in her own way.
With a resigned sigh, Stella turned and walked down the hallway, the familiar hum of the house around her. She slipped outside, slinging her bag over her shoulder, and got into the car. The anticipation of the fair returned as she started the engine, and with a last look at the house, she drove off toward what promised to be an eventful day, the world feeling a little brighter and more exciting with each passing mile.