Her Purpose || Kai Parker

Chapter 62

Later that day, Estrella met up with Caroline and Lexi at the Grill. They immediately congratulated her on finishing her exams.

"Thanks, guys," Estrella replied, her smile genuine but tinged with concern as she observed Caroline's demeanor.

Caroline's smile was bright, but Estrella couldn't help but notice the strain behind it, a hint of the turmoil she was trying to hide.

"What's this?" Lexi asked, noticing a frame wrapped in gift paper.

"Oh, this is a portrait I drew of Enzo. Now that I've finished my assignments, I thought I'd give it to him," Estrella said, lying smoothly.

In truth, the painting wasn't her best work; she had hurriedly made it to cover her lie.

"He's meeting me here today. I hope you don't mind," she continued, watching as Caroline and Lexi shook their heads, though their expressions were tinged with disappointment.

They were upset, suspecting that Estrella wasn't being completely honest.

They had a feeling she might be secretly seeing Kai, understanding why she would want to keep it quiet given how Damon might react.

But it had been a while since they had seen the newly elected Gemini leader, and their suspicions only grew stronger.

Estrella had been expecting Caroline to be more subdued, given the situation with her mother, so when she mentioned planning a casual party, Estrella couldn't hide her surprise.

"A party? Are you sure?" She asked cautiously, her eyes searching Caroline's for any sign of doubt.

Caroline's smile wavered slightly, but she quickly regained her composure.

"Yes, I think it's just what we all need right now," she said with a forced cheerfulness. "Something to take our minds off... everything."

Before Estrella could press further, they were interrupted by Enzo, who strolled over with his usual cocky grin.

"Hello, ladies," he greeted, his eyes lingering on Estrella for a moment longer than necessary.

She handed Enzo the portrait and the caramel iced latte. He raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised she followed through.

As he unwrapped the gift, his expression shifted to one of amazement.

The girls gathered around, equally impressed.

"That's incredible, Ella," Lexi praised.

"Honestly, it's probably the only time his face has been done justice." She shot him a teasing grin.

He looked at her with a deadpan expression. "Please... I'm very handsome. Her paintings should be hanging in the Louvre."

"Great job, tiny witch," Enzo said, giving her a rare, sincere smile.

Estrella blushed at the compliment, feeling a warm sense of accomplishment.

"Thank you," she replied softly, her eyes meeting him with a silent message of gratitude.

She was thankful for more than just his praise-he had kept her secret and supported her in his own way.

Enzo, catching the unspoken sentiment, smirked and gave her a subtle nod, acknowledging their unspoken understanding.

She exchanged a brief conversation with Enzo and the girls, but as they spoke, neither of them noticed the figure hidden in the shadows, watching them intently.

The observer's gaze narrowed as they focused on Estrella, their fingers twitching as they attempted to cast a spell meant to cause her pain.

However, the magic was continually repelled, leaving the attacker frustrated and confused.