(Michelle Lui's POV)
The moment we stepped deeper into the amusement park, the night lights came alive.
Warm gold bulbs lined the pathways, carnival music floated on the breeze, and cool autumn air brushed against my neck, bringing with it the scents of buttered popcorn, caramel apples, and cinnamon.
It felt like we'd stepped into a small movie set.
"Well!" Vince clapped loudly. "Before this devolves into chaos—and it WILL—we're doing the pairs draw now."
Lara groaned. "Why can't we just choose normally?"
"Because 'normally' you would attach yourself to Steven like a decorative magnet," Vince said.
She narrowed her eyes. "I hope you swallow a button."
Kate sighed. "Guys. Please."
Then Vince pulled out… a red beanie.
He shook it proudly. "Names inside. One draw each. No cheating. No switching. No bribes—Kate stop looking at Jeff that way."
Kate shoved him.
Lara snatched the beanie and dipped her hand in.
She unfolded her slip.
Her face fell.
Vince.
