Chapter 24: 13|Let the games begin!-3

"God. You're naturally so beautiful. I don't think anything beyond some eyeliner and lipstick is required." I blushed and gave her a grateful smile for understanding me. I briefly wondered if mom would have done this too. Is this how moms treat you? I shook the thought away before it ruined Janet's efforts. Exactly 11 minutes later, Samantha was done with my hair and Janet was almost done painting my nails. I felt so pampered. Janet gave me what she called smoky eyes that brought my eye colour even more prominently and coloured my lips into a rich matte red while painting my chewed up nails into an emerald shade. Samantha dressed my hair up in an elegant yet stylish way. There was a braid that came across like a tiara over my head while loose curls descended down my back. I smiled at my reflection. I was looking gorgeous and I loved every bit of it. "Thank you both. You really saved me today." They rolled their eyes. "I should thank you, silly. I always wanted to play dress up but oh well. Kim is still young and totally not interested in dress ups." I laughed at Janet's statement. "Where is she, by the way?" "Out with her crush, playing soccer." Janet winked. I shook my head and chuckled. "Your ride is her-" Liam entered the room and stopped once he saw me. My cheeks flared when he took in my appearance and my mind briefly flew back to when he totally disregarded me at dinner. It felt so long back. I shook my head and smiled at Janet and Samantha who were giving each other a knowing look. "Thanks again. I owe you both." "You owe us nothing, Astrid. You're like a daughter to us too." Samantha replied firmly and left me speechless. I nodded as I was at loss of words and gave both of them a quick hug and peck before wobbling towards front door in heels. Damn! Mom was right. These are death traps! "Hey, careful." Liam caught me by my waist just in time before I face planted myself on his front porch. I cleared my throat and tried to supress the blush as he settled me back on my feet. "T-thanks. I-I should uh-go. See you l-later?" he nodded, partially amused at my stuttering. I quickly scrambled towards Rose's red sedan and buckled myself up. "You look beautiful. No wonder Liam is still staring at you." Rose mused as I glared at her. I discreetly stole a glance in the rear view mirror and true to Rose's words, he was staring at my window. Oh god. Rose chuckled at my red cheeks and started the car when I glared at her again. She looked like a princess in a royal blue sleeveless dress and diamond studs. She explained the rules and Alex's opponent to me in car ride's duration. Apparently, Alex was competing with the second best fencer of America under 18. Alex was third in ranking. The first rank was never given to someone. I asked why. Rose stole a nervous glance in my direction but answered proudly. "Prince Joseph won every tournament during his teenage years. He was unbeatable. When he died, they honoured him by reserving his position at the top" "Oh." Venue was brimmed with people when we reached there. Rose collected some passes from front desk and I was surprised when I saw they were backstage passes and Alex kept one arranged for me too. Entering the backstage, I was greeted by Alex who was busy in putting his suit. He looked absolutely gorgeous. "Alex!" Rose squealed and Alex turned to us. He caught Rose just in time as she jumped into a hug. "You look gorgeous, Cr-Rose." "All the best, bestie! Kill him." Alex's eyes widened and it was almost comical. "I mean figuratively, dumbass." I totally imagined Rose do an eye roll. Alex muttered something under his breath and they pulled away. I grinned when Alex saw me. He was dazed for a moment before he stepped towards me. "You look absolutely stunning, C-Astrid." Why this name starting with C is on his tongue so badly, is a mystery to me. "Thanks and all the very best." He smiled at me. As if on cue, a blonde crew member entered and announced Alex to get ready. He nodded politely. "Help me with my helmet?" I was surprised that he asked me. "Rose helps me every time. Will you do the honours today?" he asked with a hopeful smile. I looked at Rose for guidance. She gave me an encouraging smile with a thumbs up. I acknowledged Alex and nodded with a smile. Taking the protective gear from chair, I helped his head in it and secured it there. "Wow. You look scary now." He chuckled at my stupid statement and I blushed in embarrassment. The announcement for the start of game resounded the venue and with another round of best wishes, I gave a quick hug to him and followed Rose towards the seating area. "The first face off is between Mr Carter Brown and Mr Alexander Lawson." Let the game begin! "Allez!" the referee declared when Alex and his opponent Carter took their position. They immediately started the action. I honestly don't know what went in between but I enjoyed every moment of it. There was a lot of sabre clanking and bouncing to approach or defend. By the time the winner was announced, I was sure that anyone could see the hearts in my eyes. I felt hypnotised because of all the action in front of me and desperately craved for the same adrenaline. I wanted to touch sabre and act like a knight, too. God! I am hopeless romantic when it comes to sports. Rose and I stood up and cheered for Alex despite his defeat as he slowly removed his helmet to reveal his gorgeous face. His opponent hesitated for a moment but removed his helmet, gingerly. I gasped and rubbed my eyes but then I heard Rose's gasp and saw Alex's shocked face and I knew. I knew that I was indeed not dreaming. Alexander Lawson was beaten by none other than America No 2, Felix Carter Brown.