Chapter 27

The evening air buzzed with excitement as colorful lights illuminated the sprawling grounds of the holiday carnival. I stood at the entrance, hesitating. I had been..pretty much lost in my thoughts all week, and the idea of joining the festive atmosphere felt overwhelming.

Beside me, Hailey nudged me playfully. "Come on, Cora," she insisted, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You need a break from all that brooding. Let’s have some fun!"

I tried to manage a faint smile, but I think it looked like a grimace. Not that I wasn't grateful for Hailey’s attempt to lift my spirits.

"I don’t know," I murmured, glancing at the carnival's lively scene. "It's just... a lot."

Hailey linked arms with me, pulling me gently towards the entrance. "Exactly why you need this," she declared. "A night of distractions and pure fun!"

With a sigh, I relented, allowing herself to be drawn into the vibrant chaos of the carnival. Popcorn scents wafted through the air, and laughter mingled with the music.