Three.
Two.
One.
Showtime.
Rachel opens the front door of William McKinley High School and immediately puts on her showface. It didn't matter what she was feeling or how miserable and worthless so many people in this cow town made her feel, she was going to smile, hold her head up high, and walk with purpose. She was an actress, damn it, and high school was her biggest performance. No one could bring her down, she was a star.
The cold splash on her face would have deterred a less talented actress, but she took the blue icy liquid with grace and didn't cry or run. She just calmly let out a sigh, and let her smile fade just slightly, because if this were a play the director would want her to give a slight look of disappointment before moving on. She grabbed a spare outfit and slushy emergency kit she has kept in her locker since the beginning of sophomore year, before heading to the nearest bathroom. She emerged fifteen minutes later polished to perfection in another cardigan and short pleated skirt with a look on her face that would convince everyone that she was the most content person in the world. This was the best acting exercise she could ever hope for.