Helen’s Dramatic Flair
Helen lifted the confetti popper with the confidence of a performer stepping into a spotlight, savoring every second of attention as she declared, “Let’s see who was right all along,” drawing out each word as if it were part of a grand script. The entire room shifted its focus to her, anticipation swirling like electricity as she gave the popper a playful twirl, clearly enjoying the power she held over the moment. When I glanced at Jake, his smile carried more apology than encouragement, as though he wished he could soften whatever was about to happen. Helen had everyone waiting on her cue, and all I wanted was for this entire spectacle to be over.
Helen’s Dramatic Flair
Alex’s Torn Expression
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Alex lingering near the edge of the room, his gaze darting anxiously between Helen and me as if he were caught in a scene he didn’t know how to interpret. His usual confidence seemed to drain away, leaving him shifting uncomfortably from one foot to the other, unsure whether this moment was meant to be fun or something he should fear. I offered him a small, encouraging nod, hoping it would at least steady him. He returned the gesture, but the tension between us lingered heavily in the air. At this point, it felt as though all we needed was the confetti to finally burst and end the suspense.
Alex’s Torn Expression
