The ornate chandelier above the dining table cast a warm, almost suffocating glow on the room. My parents and Philipstein’s parents sat at the table, discussing business and societal affairs with the kind of fake smiles that barely concealed their true intentions. Philipstein sat beside me, his posture stiff and his presence oppressive.
"So, Pacifica," Mrs. Collinson, Philipstein's mother, began with a saccharine tone, "We've heard rumours about a potential engagement. Isn't that exciting?"
I forced a smile, feeling a pit in my stomach. "Oh, um, that's quite a topic. Speaking of exciting, did you hear about the latest charity gala? The donations were off the charts."
Mrs. Collinson waved her hands dismissively. "Oh, charity galas. Yes, yes. But let's get back to the engagement. It's such a significant step in a young woman's life."
My father chimed in, his eyes twinkling with anticipation. "Indeed, Pacifica. It's a marvellous opportunity for both of our families."
Philipstein, ever the charmer, slid his hand onto my inner upper thigh under the table, giving it a possessive squeeze. I shot him a glare, but he just smirked, clearly enjoying the control he thought he had.
"Yes," Philipstein said smoothly, "It's a union that benefits everyone involved."
I felt like I was suffocating. The walls of the grand dining room seemed to close in on me, and the conversation buzzed around my head like an annoying mosquito. I couldn't take it anymore.
"I- I'm sorry," I stammered, pushing my chair back. "I'll just be a moment."
Before anyone could respond, I was on my feet and heading for the door. The cool air hit my face as I stepped outside, and I took a deep breath, feeling the tightness in my chest start to ease.
I didn't know where I was going, but my feet seemed to have a mind of their own. I found myself walking away from the Manor, down the winding paths that led to towards the forest. Before I knew it, I was heading in the direction of the Mystery Shack.
The night was quiet, with only the sound of footsteps and the occasional rustle of leaves to keep me company. My thoughts were a jumble of frustration, anger, and a strange sense of relief. My parents and Philipstein’s parents seemed determined to control my future, but I was done with being a pawn in their game.
As I approached the Mystery Shack, the familiar, quirky building came into view. The lights inside were still on, and I could see the silhouette of Dipper through the window. A sense of calm washed over me. I knocked on the door and a moment later, it swung open to reveal Dipper. He looked suprised but quickly smiled when he saw me. "Paz? What are you doing here?"
"I needed to get away," I said, my voice embarrassingly shaky. "Can I come in?"
"Of course," He replied, stepping aside to let me in.
Mabel appeared from the kitchen, her face lighting up when she saw me. "Pacifica! Are you okay?"
I nodded, feeling the tension start to melt away. "I am now. Thanks."
We sat down in the living room, and I couldn't help but notice how much Dipper had grown up. He wasn't the scrawny, awkward kid I remembered. He'd filled out, his muscles more defined, and there was a confidence about him that hadn't been there before. And he was, well, kind of hot now.
"So, what's going on?" Dipper asked gently, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I sighed. "Dinner with Philipstein's parents. They kept pushing about an engagement, and it was just too much. I needed to get out of there."
Mabel frowned. "That sounds awful. I'm glad you came here."
Dipper nodded. "You're always welcome here, Pacifica. We're your friends."
A warmth spread through me at their words. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I could breathe again. "Thank you. You have no idea how much that means to me."
As we talked, my thoughts kept drifting back to Dipper. He was so different now, more mature and self-assured. And as much as I tried to push the thought away, I couldn't deny the growing attraction I felt.
Maybe, just maybe, this summer would be the start of something new. Something better. With friends like Dipper and Mabel by my side, I felt like I could face anything.
