Mission Pretty Possible Chapter 15.4 (Patreon)

Ethan’s smile felt like it was pinned onto his face—held by needles. He could feel the blue gown sliding around his legs—too… wrong. Why had he chosen this one? He should’ve worn the black mermaid dress Sam recommended. The one that hugged the waist and flared just enough to look dramatic, delicate. That dress would’ve made him look taller, sharper—less forgettable.God. Why didn’t he wear it?

“I should have listened to Sam.”

“And the winner is… Alex!”

It hit him like someone knocking the air out of his lungs. Just—gone.Alex stepped forward, glowing in that red gown that suddenly felt ten times more beautiful than it did an hour ago. Of course he won. Of course, the crown would look perfect on him. That tiara practically belonged to him already.

Ethan clapped. Mechanical. Empty. Every clap felt like a betrayal to himself.

The crown lowered onto Alex’s head and Ethan’s stomach twisted. A stupid part of him whispered, That should’ve been me. Another part snapped back, Don’t think that. Be graceful. But he couldn’t control anything. The applause felt like waves crashing over him while he stood there drowning quietly.

He didn’t dare look at Claire. If she was smiling proudly, it would break him. If she looked sorry, it would break him worse.

He kept the smile on until the last camera flashed.