𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐍𝐀 ||The Girl Behind The Act||

Chapter 24

Tristan

"Do you think she's always like this?" I asked Josh, who was chilling beside me on the bleachers during lunch. We were watching the cheerleaders do their thing on the track—jogging around and pulling off some fancy flips in the air.

"For sure. Ari's always been like that. Although, I've noticed a change in her this year, especially since you joined the school."

I squinted my eyes, trying to catch the details of the cheerleading routine under the blazing sun.

"Jo told me everything about Ari." I glanced at him, raising an eyebrow.

"And?"

"She told me everything about her acting and stuff." I gave him a quick look.

That's cool, though. I can trust Josh. The guy's a vault when it comes to secrets.

"Man, it's so crazy. I used to think that's just her natural self, but damn, she could win an award for best actress with how she's nailing this."

I chuckled, swiped another sandwich from his bag, and munched away while keeping my gaze on the scene ahead.

"This is torture. The sun's scorching, lunchtime is here, and Joanna must be starving. How long are they gonna keep at that stupid handstand thing?" Josh gripped beside me, but I was only half-tuned into his ramble.

My attention was locked on the brunette leading the pack, sporting that commanding look on her face and a vibe that said, "Don't even think about messing with me today."

Ariana

"C'mon girls, let's pick up the pace here! If you're thinking of lunch, then nail this routine like you can do it in your sleep!"

My voice was scratchy from all the shouting since morning, but I was convinced these girls needed a confidence boost before the game on Friday.

They practiced the routine repeatedly, and it finally dawned on me – or more accurately, who was missing.

"Shay! Where are those dudes we brought in to help throw us in the air? They're essential for nailing those aerial moves!" She stopped, gesturing behind me, and I spun around.

The guys we recently recruited for the cheer squad were strolling lazily across the field toward the hardworking group.

I slammed my clipboard down and marched right up to the group of five, fueled by irritation.

"Hey, dipshits! Planning to stand around or should I give you a live demo of your actual purpose here?"

They exchanged nervous glances and hustled over to join the others.

"Get in there and put those muscles to work, got it?"

I observed as they executed the routine – at last, it played out flawlessly, just as I envisioned.

"All right, everyone, scatter and grab some food. Opt for salads or anything without the word 'fat' in it!"

Their cheers filled the air as they headed to the cafeteria, content with their performance.

I settled onto the grass under the shade, taking a few deep breaths. With that done, I felt like I could devour anything and pass out from exhaustion.

"Ari! We're heading out for lunch. Wanna come?" Joanna's voice carried from across the field, where the bleachers stood. Josh, by her side, waved.

I gave them a thumbs-up.

"I'm good, thanks." They turned and departed, and I reached for my bag, using it as a makeshift pillow. Eyes closed, I let out a relieved sigh.