Chapter 21: The Makeup Artist

Audrey felt the questioning gazes and nearly lost her composure. She was certain Isabella had deliberately embarrassed her. Feeling wronged, Audrey wondered why Isabella constantly made things difficult. Given Alexander's friendship with the group, Isabella should have been closer to them. Why would she side with outsiders to undermine Audrey? Audrey's suspicious look made Isabella uneasy. Is she blaming me? Isabella thought. For not joining her in bullying others?

The discussion escalated, prompting Caleb to intervene. He smiled and inquired about the situation.

"It's nothing," Audrey said with a strained smile. "Just discussing makeup artist rates. Isabella's higher rates, being a celebrity, were the topic."

Caleb, ever polite, turned to Dakota. "Ms. Meadows, you've worked hard. Please enjoy the wines. If you find one you like, let us know, and we'll send it to you."

While Caleb was open and kind, Dakota's gaze was peculiar. She felt a shared sense of misery but, considering Caleb's status, she knew she wasn't in a position to sympathize.

"You're too kind, thank you," Dakota replied, using the opportunity to ease the tension. She didn't want to ruin the event or create problems for herself. Knowing the group's ill intentions, she decided to return to the makeup room and wait for the banquet to end. She silently thanked Isabella for her support, ignoring Josiah, her boyfriend, who sat just two people away.

Josiah felt utterly ignored. The old Dakota had revolved around him; this change suffocated him. Seeing her leave, he lost his patience. "Where do you think you're going? Come sit down."

His words drew everyone's attention. (Is this starting already? His domineering behavior is so awkward. And he didn't even name anyone specifically!) (The Quiche ka ndalu) [The bracketed portion is unclear and likely needs further context or correction.]