Her Purpose || Kai Parker

Chapter 55

The next day, Estrella found herself in the middle of a shopping spree with Caroline and Lexi.

She hadn't really planned on going out, but Caroline had insisted, saying they all needed a break from the recent drama.

So there they were, wandering through racks of clothes, trying on outfits, and pretending that everything was perfectly normal.

Caroline, of course, was talking non-stop about Stefan. She tried to be discreet, but it was clear to anyone who knew her that she was head over heels.

Every now and then, Lexi would smirk, casting a knowing glance at Estrella, who smiled back but was only half listening.

Caroline's excitement was infectious, but Estrella's thoughts kept drifting back to Kai.

She hadn't seen or spoken to Kai since their breakfast five days ago.

She kept telling herself that he must have already left for Portland, even though he was supposed to go after New Year.

The thought brought a mix of relief and anxiety. She had promised Damon and the others that she would stay away from Kai, but she couldn't stop thinking about him.

The idea of facing him again weighed heavily on her mind.

What would she say if he hadn't left yet? How would she explain that she couldn't join him in Portland or that she wasn't supposed to talk to him anymore?

The uncertainty gnawed at her, leaving her feeling unsettled.

For now, though, she was relieved that she hadn't had to confront him with the news.

"Ella, what do you think?" Caroline's voice pulled her back to the present.

She was holding up a dress, looking at Estrella expectantly.

She blinked, trying to focus on the conversation at hand.

"Oh, it's... it's nice," she said, not entirely sure what she was agreeing to.

Caroline frowned slightly, noticing her distraction. "You okay? You've been quiet."

Lexi gave her a knowing look. "Yeah, Ella, what's on your mind?"

Estrella, caught off guard, blurted out, "Do you like Stefan?"

Caroline, shocked, stammered but eventually admitted her feelings.

"Fine, I do like him. I'm sorry, it's really awkward to talk to you about it since he's your brother," She confessed, looking uncomfortable.

"Awkward? Why? I'm glad you like him. You both can take care of each other. Don't worry, I'll only show you my twin wrath if you hurt him, which I know you won't," Estrella reassured her, making Caroline smile.

"Just make sure to tone down the PDA a bit, okay? It would be much appreciated," She added with a playful smile.

Lexi nodded in agreement. "Yes, unlike some people we know—cough Damon and Elena cough."

"Who said that?" Estrella joked, glancing sideways and around as if searching for the culprit.

They all laughed, and Caroline shrugged awkwardly. "Well, I'll do my best, but only if he feels the same way. And honestly, I'm not entirely sure about that yet."

Lexi and Estrella exchanged glances.

"I'm going to borrow one of your lines here," Lexi said with a smirk. "Seriously? Have you seen the way that dumbass looks at you? It's practically embarrassing."

Caroline rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling.

"Well, he'll come around," Estrella said, a hint of optimism in her voice.