Chapter 39
Bella
"What do you mean you signed me up for the contest?" I asked Meera, my voice tense with disbelief as she beamed with joy, acting as if she'd just achieved something monumental without consulting me first.
"I thought you should participate in this competition—"
"And who are you to decide that, Meera?" I interrupted, closing my eyes briefly to rein in my frustration.
Meera's lips tightened. "You're right. I overstepped. I should have asked before signing you up. I'm sorry." Her tone softened, making me feel guilty for snapping at her.
"It's okay. I'm going to withdraw my name," I informed her, turning to leave.
"I thought you'd be great competition for Ariella, someone who could actually stand out against her," Meera's tone turned sharper, her words cutting through th
