Lindsey hesitated briefly.


    Xiomara’s words struck a chord with her, echoing Sumner’s earlier remarks about friendship.


    Could it be that Sumner had been hiding his true feelings behind the guise of friendship all along?


    A wave of empathy washed over Lindsey.


    She assured Xiomara, “You’re wonderful, Xiomara, in every way, and you have such a vibrant personality.


    Don’t underestimate yourself.


    As for Sumner… He’s just been a bit offtely.


    Don’t worry about it too much.


    From what I’ve seen, he’s not the type to be unkind.


    ”


    Just as Xiomara was about to respond, the door swung open, and Sumner entered.


    Xiomara held back her words.


    As they waited for the food, the cake arrived.


    Lindsey carefully ced candles on it and lit each one.


    “Today, we’re toasting to your achievements in the show’s debut,”


    Lindsey said cheerfully.


    “Sumner, Xiomara, you both really impressed me.


    I’ve seen how much you’ve grown.


    Thepany will definitely keep you in mind for future opportunities.


    ”


    “Thank you, Lindsey.


    ” Xiomara managed a faint smile.


    Lindsey poured some wine for them.Còntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    “You deserve this celebration.


    Let’s raise a toast to ourselves!”


    They raised their sses in a toast and sipped their drinks.


    Lindsey grasped Xiomara’s hand, blowing out the candles with her.


    Then, she sliced the cake.


    With a meaningful look, she signaled Xiomara to offer a slice to Sumner.


    Feeling slightly hesitant, Xiomara shyly pushed the cake towards Sumner.


    “This is for you, Sumner, enjoy the cake.


    ”


    Sumner epted it graciously, taking a bite.


    “Remember, even though you’ve been promoted, stay humble.


    I’vepiled the judges’ feedback and sent it to you.


    Make sure you listen to it carefully and reflect.


    Xiomara, you especially need to pay attention to Wendy Benson’s personal coaching.


    Go over the performance tips she gave you and practice diligently, alright?”


    Lindsey wasmitted to teaching them.


    Tonight was all about celebrating the two of them.


    So, after Lindsey shared a few words, they resumed their drinking.


    Xiomara seemed preupied and kept downing her drinks, not waiting for the others.


    Lindsey watched her, feeling a mix of sympathy and understanding.


    She knew Xiomara was trying to dull her emotional pain, so she didn’t intervene.


    Having had a few sses herself, Lindsey started to feel tipsy.


    Not wanting to overdo it, she wisely decided to stop while she was still clear-headed.


    Sumner, on the other hand, only had a couple of drinks.


    He wasn’t much of a drinker, and with twodies in hispany, he felt it was his duty to ensure their safety.


    Most of the food and cake went untouched, but the wine bottles were steadily emptied, mainly by Xiomara.


    Deeply intoxicated, Xiomara clung to Lindsey, tears streaming down her face.


    “Thank you, Lindsey, for believing in me.


    Since I was young, everyone ridiculed and underestimated me.


    But you saw my potential and valued my dreams.


    You’ve tirelessly supported me and even sought out medication for my obesity.


    ”


    Lindsey gently stroked Xiomara’s disheveled hair, offering sce.