Elena's Point Of View

THE FOLLOWING NIGHT

I deliberately took my time.

The event was scheduled for 9PM, and I began my makeup at 7:45. I spent fifteen minutes brushing my hair, then another fifteen staring at myself in the mirror.

I applied foundation slowly, carefully… then removed it entirely, just to start over. There was no rush. Why should I be early to an event where no one cared whether I showed up?

Why go on time to parade myself before vultures who already picked me apart behind ...