A Stroke of Courage

Chapter 9: A Canvas of Deceit

Chapter 9: A Canvas of Deceit

I stared at my reflection, frustrated with my makeup attempt. Uneven foundation, clumsy eyeliner, and mismatched shades stared back at me.

"Why can't I get this right?" I wondered, feeling defeated.

Miss Patel noticed my struggles. "Ava, what's wrong? You're usually so confident."

"I just can't seem to master these techniques," I admitted, feeling embarrassed.

Miss Patel offered guidance. "Ava, everyone starts somewhere. Even I struggled initially. Let's break it down, step by step."

With renewed determination, I practiced:

- Hydrating primer: I applied it in thin layers, ensuring an even base.
- Thin-layer foundation: I blended shades to match my skin tone, feathering edges for a seamless finish.
- Subtle highlighter: I applied highlighter to cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid's bow, accentuating natural features.

I practiced daily, refining techniques:

- Smoky Eyes: I learned on how to gradating eyeshadows, blending colors for depth.
- Contouring: I learned to sculpt facial features, defining cheekbones and jawlines.
- Highlighting: I understand the subtle highlighting, enhancing natural glow.

Slowly, my skills improved. I improved:

- Even foundation application
- Smooth eyeshadow transitions
- Precise eyeliner

But just as I regained confidence, an anonymous text message stirred unease:

"Ava, why did you really get the Golden Brush Scholarship?"

I brushed it off as a prank, but the message lingered. Why would someone question my achievement?

Determined to focus on my craft, I attended a masterclass with Samantha, a renowned makeup artist. Her expertise and charisma inspired me.

However, during the class, I noticed Samantha's peculiar behavior. She seemed nervous, glancing around the room as if worried about being overheard.

Later, while assisting Samantha with a photoshoot, I stumbled upon a cryptic conversation:

"We can't let her find out... not yet."

"Samantha, what's going on?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.

Samantha quickly changed the subject, but my suspicions grew.

That night, I received another anonymous text:

"Look into Samantha's past. You'll understand why you're really here."

I sat in Samantha's studio, surrounded by the familiar scent of makeup and the hum of cameras. But my mind wasn't on the lesson; it was consumed by the anonymous text messages and the unsettling feeling that something was off.

"Ava, pay attention!" Samantha snapped, her voice piercing through my thoughts.

I refocused, trying to shake off the unease. But it lingered, fueling my determination to uncover the truth.

That night, I began investigating Samantha's past, scouring the internet for any hint of scandal. And then, I stumbled upon a cryptic forum post:

"Samantha's rise to fame wasn't just talent... it was strategic manipulation."

I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was in over my head.

The next day, I confronted Samantha.

"Samantha, what's going on? Why did you really choose me for the scholarship?"

Her expression turned cold.

"Ava, you're talented, but also... convenient. Your skills will help me achieve my goals."

I felt a chill run down my spine. Was I just a pawn in Samantha's game?

That evening, I returned home to find my parents arguing.

"Ava, we can't afford this anymore," my mother said, tears in her eyes. "We're drowning in debt."

"We'll figure it out, Laila," my father replied, frustration etched on his face.

Their words lacked conviction, and I sensed their desperation. Doubts crept in. Had I made a mistake by entering the Golden Brush Scholarship?

"Samantha's using me," I thought. "What if I'm enabling her corruption?"

I confided in Sofia.

"Ava, what's wrong?"

"I'm torn, Sofia. I want to expose Samantha, but I don't want to jeopardize my family's financial stability."

Sofia listened intently.

"Ava, you can't let Samantha's actions dictate your decisions. You have to do what's right."

I continued gathering evidence, resolving to expose Samantha.

Suspicious behavior intensified:

- Whispered conversations with brand representatives
- Unmarked packages delivered to her studio
- Exclusive contracts with affiliated brands

I documented everything, preparing for the moment I'd expose her.

But as I delved deeper, the scandal's scope broadened.

Samantha's influence extended beyond the beauty industry:

- Fake reviews and endorsements
- Influencing beauty standards
- Colluding with brands for personal gain

I realized that I wasn't just fighting against Samantha; I was fighting against a corrupt system.