La Familià (Lim X Vergara Family) Au

XIV

The auditorium is packed with excited students and proud parents. The lights are bright, and the stage is set for the final walk of the "Ms. Zoe Christian School" pageant. Mairwen, representing ABM, stands backstage, her heart pounding in her chest. She glances to her side and sees Sari, the confident and graceful competitor from STEM, adjusting her gown. Sari catches Mairwen’s glance and gives a subtle, challenging smile.

The announcer’s voice booms through the speakers: 
Announcer: "Now, ladies and gentlemen, let’s welcome our two finalists  Ms.Mairwen Rhelvie Aliera Lim, from ABM and Ms. Selah Ashienna elaxi  Vergara  from STEM!"

The crowd erupts into applause as Mairwen and Sari step onto the stage, both poised and elegant in their evening gowns. The spotlight shines brightly on them as they begin their final walk. Mairwen keeps her head high, determined to give it her all, despite the pressure. She knows how strong Sari is in both her academic and extracurricular achievements.

As they reach the center of the stage, the announcer poses the final question, a question that could make or break the competition: 
Announcer: "To both of our finalists, the question is What quality do you believe is the most important in a future leader, and how do you embody this quality?"

Sari is asked to answer first. With grace and eloquence, she speaks confidently into the microphone. 
"I believe intelligence is the most important quality in a leader. A leader must make informed decisions based on knowledge and data. As someone from STEM, I embody this through my passion for research and scientific inquiry. I always strive to solve problems logically and efficiently."

The crowd claps, impressed by her composed and intellectual response. Mairwen knows Sari is tough competition, but she doesn’t let the pressure shake her. It’s her turn now.

Mairwen steps forward, her heart beating fast, but her voice remains calm and steady. 
"I believe empathy is the most important quality in a leader. A leader must understand and care for the people they are leading. In ABM, I’ve learned the importance of connecting with others whether in business or life. I try to embody empathy by always listening to others and putting myself in their shoes, to better serve and uplift those around me."

The room falls silent for a moment as the audience absorbs Mairwen’s heartfelt words. Then, the applause starts first soft, then growing louder. Mairwen glances at Sari, who gives her a nod of acknowledgment, both of them recognizing the strengths in each other's answers.

The tension builds as the judges deliberate. Mairwen and Sari stand side by side, waiting for the announcement. The moment feels like an eternity until the announcer returns to the stage.

Announcer: "And the winner of this year’s Ms. Zoe Christian School pageant is…"

Mairwen holds her breath, glancing one last time at Sari, who looks equally composed, though there’s a slight flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.

Announcer: "Ms. Mairwen Rhelvie Aliera Lim from ABM!"

The crowd erupts into cheers as Mairwen’s name is called. She stands stunned for a moment before a wave of relief and joy washes over her. She turns to Sari, who, despite her own disappointment, offers a sincere smile and claps for Mairwen.

As the celebrations continue after Mairwen’s victory, the atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement. Mairwen stands at the center of attention, surrounded by her proud family. Ariah beams with pride, holding little Iyah in her arms, while Mac offers a warm embrace to her daughter. Ensley, joins them, her elegance and grace undeniable as she congratulates Mairwen with a proud smile.

"You did it, darling! You were amazing out there."

Mairwen: "Thank you, Tita Ensley! I couldn’t have done it without all of you."

While Mairwen basks in her family's love and support, on the other side of the room, Selah is far from pleased with the outcome. The announcement of her loss hit hard, and her disappointment is evident. She stands rigidly, arms crossed, her face tight with frustration. Her mother, Charles, along with Loyden, tries to console her, but Selah's hurt is hard to mask.

"Selah, you gave it your best. Don’t let this get you down. You were stunning out there."

"Everyone saw your brilliance. This isn’t the end."

her Tita Josiah steps in, offering her own words of comfort, 
"There will be other competitions, Selah. You’re still a star."

Despite their efforts, Selah remains distant, her gaze lingering on Mairwen and her happy family. It stings to lose, especially when her competitive nature was on full display during the pageant. She clenches her fists, trying to hold back her emotions.

Mairwen, still wrapped in the love of her family, notices Selah from across the room. A part of her feels a pang of empathy for her competitor. Though Selah was fierce, Mairwen knows how much this moment means to everyone involved.

Ariah, sensing the emotions in the room, kneels down beside little Iyah and whispers, 
"Why don’t we all go out and celebrate together? It’s a day to remember."

Mac smiles, pulling Iyah up into her arms, and the family begins to move toward the exit, ready to enjoy the moment. As they pass by, Ensley pauses, glancing at Selah with a knowing look before walking away.

Selah watches them leave, her heart heavy, but a small voice in her mind tells her this isn’t the end.