*Stella's pov:*
As I walked into the mini main hall, following the instructions we'd received earlier, my excitement for the next round was palpable. The room was filled with an air of anticipation, and the contestants were all seated and ready to begin. I scanned the room, my eyes widening as I took in the sea of faces. Fifty people, including myself, were vying for a spot in the next round. I felt a flutter in my chest as I realized I was one of only two women in the room.
My gaze drifted to the front of the room, where Master Adrian sat, his piercing eyes seeming to bore into my very soul. I felt a shiver run down my spine as our eyes met, and I quickly looked away, my heart racing.
The commentator's voice cut through the silence, and I focused on her words. "Welcome, contestants, to the next round of the competition. Your task is to create a dress that captures the essence of peace and brathereness. You have one hour to complete this challenge."
I took a deep breath, feeling a surge of determination. I opened the box containing my equipment and pulled out the elegant brushes my mother had given me. They were my good luck charm, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me as I held them.
With a nod, I began to sketch, my pencils gliding across the paper with ease. The room around me melted away, and I lost myself in the creative process. Master Adrian's gaze still lingered in my mind, but I refused to let it intimidate me.
As the minutes ticked by, I worked tirelessly, adding intricate details and textures to my design. The bell rang, signaling the end of the hour, and I stepped back, surveying my work.
I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. I had given it my all, but now, all I could do was wait...
*Adrian's pov:*
As she walked in with that guy again, a spark of anger ignited within me. I couldn't explain why, but the thought of anyone else receiving her smile made my blood boil. Our eyes met, and for a fleeting moment, I held her gaze. But she quickly looked away, attempting to ignore me.
I took my seat alongside the five judges, my eyes never leaving Stella. As the competition began, I noticed Griffin Gluck ogling her, and my anger simmered just below the surface. I tried to distract myself with my phone, but my gaze kept drifting back to Stella.
She was entrancing, lost in her own world as she painted. Her focus was mesmerizing, and I found myself captivated by her talent. Time seemed to stand still as I watched her, the only sound the soft scratch of her brushes against the canvas.
The bell rang, signaling the end of the competition, and Stella stood up, her eyes scanning the room. Griffin Gluck rose from his seat, muttering an excuse, but I knew exactly where he was headed. My instincts screamed that he was going to meet Stella, and the thought sent a surge of possessiveness through me.
My mind whispered a phrase that made my heart skip a beat: "My miss confidence." I froze, taken aback by my own thoughts. When did I start thinking of her as mine??...