Roxanne and Cassandra chatted as they walked to the kindergarten hall, which was beautifully decorated. Children and parents filled the seats. Pippa waited at the entrance, greeting Lucian politely. Spotting Roxanne and Cassandra behind him, she greeted them all together.
Roxanne and Cassandra smiled. Pippa exclaimed in awe at the sight of Archie, Benny, Estella, and Chloe, commenting on their adorable costumes. Even though she knew her students were attractive, seeing them dressed as fairytale characters for the anniversary celebration revealed a new level of beauty. The children beamed at her compliments.
Pippa directed them to their seats at the front. They nodded and proceeded down the aisle, feeling the weight of everyone's gaze. The audience was captivated by their appearance. While everyone was costumed as fairytale characters, Roxanne and Lucian resembled a princess and prince, and Archie, Benny, and Estella possessed a regal elegance. Though accustomed to attention, they maintained composed expressions as they reached their seats.
Archie, Benny, and Estella sat between Roxanne and Lucian, looking like a family. The anniversary celebration commenced, presenting one fairytale after another on stage. The kindergarten’s efforts were evident in the highly realistic stage design, bringing the fairytales to life. Archie, Benny, and Estella were particularly enthralled, many stories being new to them. They were visibly moved, tearing up during "The Little Match Girl" and covering their eyes in fear during "Little Red Riding Hood." Their fluctuating emotions were evident on their faces.
Roxanne felt touched, but also found their reactions amusing. During "Pinocchio," Benny tugged her sleeve and anxiously asked in a hushed voice, "Will my nose really get longer if I lie?"
Roxanne chuckled softly. Benny's confused expression surprised her; he was usually so intelligent, even finding computer programming uncomplicated. Yet, seeing his nervousness, she playfully responded, "That's right. Look at Pinocchio's nose."
Benny pouted, checking his nose with Archie and Estella. Estella giggled after a whispered conversation with Benny. Roxanne smiled at the children's playful interaction.