Chapter 15 : The Game

The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the opulent Santa Barbara streets as I stand outside my apartment building, waiting for Natasha to pick me up. The evening breeze blows gently through my auburn curls, and I can't help but feel a flutter of excitement for the fashion show we are about to attend.

"Lexie!" a familiar voice calls out, catching me off guard. My heart skips a beat when I see Tristan's car pull up instead of Natasha's.

"Tristan? What are you doing here?" I ask, surprised.

"Natasha got caught up with some last-minute preparations, so she sent me to pick you up," he explains, flashing a charming smile. He whistles playfully as he takes in my appearance. "Wow, Lexie, you look stunning."

"Thanks," I say, trying to suppress a blush as I climb into his car.

"I don't get why Natasha is so worried about this fashion show," Tristan ponders aloud. "She has an even bigger one coming up in a month."

"Natasha always pushes herself to be the best," I explain, feeling prot