Although I found myself in the familiar blue room, there was no one there. Instead, I found a note on the table, congratulating me for overcoming my biggest obstacle to date and recommending me to use this time for some rest and relaxation. On that note, the next day, I woke up refreshed, preparing myself for the day ahead.
I've always enjoyed fall. The crunch of the leaves under my feet was music to my ears. The gentle, yet prickly caress of the wind was a better pick me up than any coffee brand. It was the perfect time to spread one's arms and let Mother Nature take hold and guide one's path to destiny.
By the time I arrived at my classroom, everyone was buzzing with excitement. Unsure what the fuss was about, I headed to my desk to prepare for homeroom.
"Morning, Tai," Matt said.
"Morning," I replied.
"So, have you thought about what you want to do for the school festival," Sora asked me.
"Is it that time already," I asked, perplexed.
"Don't tell me you forgot about it," Matt questioned, disappointedly.
"We were discussing ideas over the weekend when it was announced last week," Sora stated.
"I thought that was all hypothetical," I answered.
"We're submitting our proposals today," Matt remarked.
"Personally, I recommend an art display," Sora suggested. "It'll be a compilation of our hard work over the years as students here. It's simple and non-taxing, so we can focus more on college exams."
"Ugh, don't remind me," I said. "What's your idea, Matt?"
"Regardless of what the class decides, I'm going to perform on the opening and closing ceremony while doing some surprise pop-up appearances with the band," Matt replied.
"Wow, look at you, Mr. Popular and In High Demand," I joked.
"It means I won't be able to dedicate my time to work on whatever class project we choose, so I'm going abstaining," Matt said.
"Hey, why can't I do that," I asked Sora.
"Because, you don't have a reason to, so write anything," Sora replied.
"Okay, I get it," I said, backing away. "I'll put down something like a café. Does that work for you?"
Once everyone placed their votes, the class president began reading and tallying the suggestions. In the end, the majority of the class wanted a play.
Episode 28
For the next few days, our class was busy creating costumes and set pieces and practicing blocking and lines for the performance.
"I don't get it," Matt told Sora and me. "Why do I have to be the prince?"
"The class unanimously voted for you. Toughen up," I argued.
"I've already told them I'd be too busy to do the play," Matt replied.
"Stop acting like a baby," Sora said. "Besides, you don't have that many lines, and we took out all of the songs."
"But, I still need to rehearse the blocking, like that scene with the dragon," Matt continued. "Who knew that acting can be so demanding?"
"Hello Tai, Matt, and Sora," Michael said, walking into our classroom.
"Sorry for intruding," Mina replied.
"Hey, you two; how's the café coming along," Sora asked.
"Mimi's the one who suggested it, so she's taking care of most of it," Michael explained.
"She said something about feeling bad for what happened last year and wanted to make up for it," Mina continued.
"She's still bummed out about the last culture festival," Matt questioned.
"I can understand that," Sora replied.
"So, are you guys taking a break from your festival duties," I asked.
"Tai, they're not like you," Sora sighed.
"We're bringing some supplies for our class," Mina told us. "Michael was the one who suggested stopping by."
"It's my first time fully participating in the legendary culture festival. I wanted an inside scoop of what's happening behind the scenes that make this event so great," Michael answered.
"I'm not sure if it meets your expectations, but I think it's like any other school festival," I responded.
"I've noticed that, too, which is why I have the perfect solution to this. It's something that my school does at the end of every year, so this is the perfect opportunity to try it here," Michael exclaimed.
"I have a terrible feeling about this," Matt said.
"As long as it's not too crazy," Sora replied. "Besides, all events have to be approved by the student body before it can be implemented, so it can't be too out of the ordinary."
The next day, I headed to school to continue the preparations for the play. Before I went upstairs, I noticed there was a crowd forming in front of the school bulletin board. I inched closer to read what everyone was murmuring about. It looked like an elaborate poster for a beauty pageant. I was surprised our school would be interested in hosting this, let alone advertise it. I scrolled down to see who signed up. To my discovery, the names were already preselected. Adding to my shock, they were all names I was familiar with: Sora, Mimi, Yolei, Mina, and students from various athletic and artistic clubs.
"Seriously, a beauty pageant," a student said, disdained. "Who would even volunteer for this?"
"What a surprise; Mimi's participating," another student said, sarcastically. "Leave it to her to go over the top and ruin the fun out of this."
"I'm shocked that Sora entered in," a baffled student said. "I didn't think she had it in her to partake in it."
"I heard from my sources that there is a core group of students who secretly admire Yolei from afar," a studious student said.
"Mina is the transfer student from India, right," a curious student said. "She actually has a pretty exterior, according to those in the yoga club."
Although I wanted to continue listening to everyone's opinion, I felt a dangerous chill pass my spine. Believing that staying longer would be the death of me, I walked towards my classroom as though everything was normal. By the time I entered the door, Sora was in front of me, scowling. Every inch of my body wanted to flee, but Sora grabbed my ear and pulled me to the roof where everyone else gathered.
"Looks like everyone's here," Sora said, finally letting go of my ear. "Okay, I'm not going to be angry, but if anyone knows who put our names up for this 'beauty pageant' event, let us know so we can confront this person directly."
"I did," Michael said, gleefully raising his hand.
"Figures," Matt replied.
"Michael, why did you put our names down without asking us first," Yolei asked, pouting.
"Well, everyone knows that Mimi and Mina are very popular. Sora and Yolei also have a secret cult following. I did it with good intentions," Michael quickly explained.
"That still doesn't give you the right to put our names down like that," Sora said, angrily.
"I have a secret cult following," Yolei murmured to herself, shivering.
"Couldn't you just ask to have your names removed from the list," Derek questioned.
"No can do," Michael sharply responded.
"Why's that," Izzy asked.
"Because, I'm the one who created it," Michael responded enthusiastically.
"So, this was the end-of-the-year event you were referring to," Matt said, dumbfounded.
"How did the student body even approve of this," Sora asked, disgusted.
"Well, I overheard them saying they were looking for something to fill in the afternoon slot," Michael explained whilst acting. "That's when I barged into the room and told them my grandiose plan. After hours of explaining, they finally gave in and handed the time slot to me, provided I take full responsibility setting the event."
"I can't believe they gave in like that," Yolei said, stunned.
"So, please, I beg you. You have to participate. It's one of the many reasons why I came over to study in Japan," Michael said, prostrating.
"Hey, don't act like that. You don't have to go that far," Sora said, concerned.
"Well, our names are already up there, so I say let's give it our all," Mimi said.
"That's the spirit," Michael said, quickly getting up.
"I can't believe I fell for that," Sora said, ashamed.
"I don't know much about this beauty pageant event," Mina said, confused. "What exactly does one have to do?"
"Just leave all the minor details to me," Michael answered. "I'll make sure it'll be one big surprise."
"That's what I'm worried about," Sora said.
The next day, I headed to school, only to see a larger crowd standing in front of the same bulletin board. This time, it took longer for me to squeeze by and see what major notice would cause them to gather like that. When I was able to read the poster, I realized that it was about a drag beauty pageant. I was surprised and concerned that so many students were interested in this. I looked at the list of participants. I was astonished that the only names listed were Matt, Izzy, Michael, Derek, and me.
"I can't believe this is actually a thing," a student said, flabbergasted.
"I'm surprised that there's such a long list of participants," another student replied, appalled.
"How many of them do you think can pull it off," an eager student asked.
"My heart's beating fast just thinking about what they might look like," a passionate student said.
As I slipped quietly away from the crowd, someone grabbed my arm and dragged me upstairs.
"Matt, what are you doing," I asked.
"Getting to the bottom of this," Matt replied in a huff.
Matt roughly opened the classroom door and stormed over to Sora.
"You better have a good explanation for this," Matt said, sternly.
"About what," Sora asked, puzzled.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about! You girls signed us up for a cross-dressing pageant, didn't you?!"
"Oh, that was Mimi's idea."
"I coordinated everything," Mimi happily shouted as she entered the room with the rest of the group.
"How did you know what we were talking about," I asked her.
"It's written all over Matt's face," Izzy said, crestfallen.
"Mimi, do you realize what you're trying to promote," Matt asked. "You're asking us to dress like women. Who wants to see that?!"
"It's not uncommon where I'm from," Michael replied.
"That's because we have two different cultures," Matt responded.
"You'd be surprised how many students are fervent about this," Derek replied.
"I heard that the student body didn't hesitate to approve it," Yolei added.
"What," Matt exclaimed, confused. "How is that possible? And why is everyone else so calm about this? Izzy, you feel the same way, don't you? Say something."
"Believe me, I tried, but…," Izzy said, looking towards Mimi.
"I thought it'd be awesome if everyone had fun," Mimi explained.
"Mimi, I'm already in a concert and a play," Matt said, wearily. "I don't want my last culture festival to also include my female getup. Is there any way I can get out of this?"
"Nope," Mimi quickly answered.
"Sora, why didn't you stop her," Matt asked, turning around. "Usually, you'd prevent Mimi from concocting her crazy ideas. Why did you let her see through this one?"
"Well, maybe if there wasn't a similar event that had our names written down against our will, I would have considered it," Sora responded. "But, that's not the reality of our situation, is it? Here. What do you think?"
Sora revealed a glittery pink dress to everyone.
"Sora, that looks amazing," Mimi said, excited.
"You are very talented with a needle and thread," Mina replied.
"Don't tell me you're going to make me wear that," Matt asked, taking a few steps back.
"No, this is for the princess in our play," Sora answered. "Not everything has to be about you. Besides, I wanted to get everyone's opinion before sending it to the actors."
"I think it looks great," Yolei said.
"It's a shame it's meant for someone else," Mimi said, carefully observing it. "I bet it'd look great on you, Sora."
"Thanks, but no thanks," Sora replied. "I'm fine working behind the scenes. I'm not interested in standing in the spotlight."
"But you'll have no choice at the beauty pageant," Michael said, smiling.
"Please, don't remind me," Sora answered, disparaged.
Fireworks lit up the school sky, signaling the beginning of the culture festival. Everyone greeted the guests with warm smiles on their faces as they traversed around the school grounds, looking at the food stalls and trinket shops. Inside the school building, guests were invited to do various activities, such as restaurants and haunted houses. There were plenty of things to keep everyone occupied and joyful during this festive spirit.
Unfortunately, the same could not be said about us. Because we were doing our play at the main auditorium, our classroom was empty. Our group gathered inside the classroom, not knowing what would become of us.
"Come on in, Matt; don't be scared," Mimi said, tapping on a desk.
"You're lucky I started the day opening the school with my band performance," Matt said. "If this was the first thing I did, I would have dreaded every second of this morning."
"Don't worry; we'll make sure you guys look pretty," Sora replied.
"Alright, let's see what's in the bag," Michael said, peeking inside the makeup and props bag.
"No, you're going to ruin the surprise," Mimi said, taking the bag back.
"That's not the only thing you're going to ruin," Matt sighed.
"There's no point hiding it if, we're going to wear it," I added.
"I normally don't apply much makeup, so I may not do a good job," Yolei said.
"Don't worry; I trust your judgement," Derek said, sitting down.
"I'm not too keen on Japanese beauty, so I read as much as I could about it," Mina replied.
"The important thing is to have fun," Michael said, sitting down.
"Okay, Izzy, get ready to be a dazzling supermodel," Mimi cheered.
Izzy chuckled in defeat as he slouched down on his chair.
"How can they just let them get away with this," Matt grumbled.
"You could learn a thing or two from them," Sora quickly snapped. "Now, both of you, sit."
"I guess we don't have a choice," I told Matt.
"What did I do to deserve this," Matt sighed.
Just when we were about to sit down, the classroom door swung open.
"Hey, Tai, I came here to play," Teddie said, smiling from ear to ear.
"Hi, Teddie," Mimi said, waving.
"How did you even get here," Matt questioned.
"We'll, I was walking around town when I saw this giant festival happening in front of me," Teddie said, using gestures to describe his day. "Then, when I sensed Tai, I knew that this was the place I had to be today to have all the fun in the world."
"He sounds like a lost puppy who finally found his owner," Sora said.
"It's actually kind of cute," Mimi replied.
"Sora, Mimi, do you know this person," Yolei said.
"Oh, right, you guys haven't met him yet," Mimi said. "Everyone, this is Teddie. He came from the TV W-."
"H-He's an acquaintance of ours who works at a TV studio," Izzy said, quickly cutting her off.
"Actually, I work at a huge department store," Teddie answered. "I'm like the store's mascot."
"I think I've seen those before," Michael replied.
"Right, so that's how we know him," I replied.
"What brings you here," Sora asked Teddie.
"I wanted to see where the fun is," Teddie replied. "What are you guys doing in an empty room where nothing is happening?"
"Actually, we're preparing these boys for our beauty pageant," Mimi explained.
"D-Did you say beauty pageant," Teddie said with glittering eyes.
"Do you know about them," Derek asked.
"Know it? I love them," Teddie said. "Is it too late to sign up?"
"You know what, I think there is an empty spot just for you," Matt said.
"Matt, don't drag him into your troubles," Sora glared.
"He sounds eager to participate, so I don't see why not," I replied. "Mimi, you are the coordinator. What do you think?"
"Of course, he can participate. The more, the merrier," Mimi said, smiling.
"Yay, I can't wait to show off my dazzling charm," Teddie said, jumping up and down in joy.
"He's too enthusiastic," Matt said.
"You could learn something from him," Sora replied.
Meanwhile, Joe was walking around the school grounds, taking a deep breath in as he reminisced about his time there. During his recollection, he heard someone call his name.
"Joe, over here," TK said, waving his hand.
"Hello, everyone, it's been a while," Joe said, walking towards the group.
"You know, you should really stop with the whole 'not telling us when you're going to show up' tactic," Kari said. "You don't come back often, and we want to meet you."
"This is different," Joe said. "I actually wanted to come tomorrow, but plans changed. So, I'm visiting today."
"Well, you couldn't have picked a better time," TK said.
"Why's that," Joe asked.
"Tai and everyone else are going to be on stage soon," Kari explained.
"Oh, are they doing a play," Joe asked.
"Even better," TK said. "They're a part of a beauty pageant."
"I didn't know we had those," Joe replied. "So, are they staff members?"
"No, they're actually part of the show," TK chuckled. "As in, Matt and all of the boys are going to be in dresses. I have my camera ready to take pictures and my phone ready to record everything."
"You know, drag shows aren't that uncommon in the US," Willis states.
"Our country is open to people expressing themselves however they wish," Catherine replied.
"What's drag," Rosa asked.
"Hey, you guys, aren't you forgetting something important," Davis told them. "We're supposed to help Yolei win her beauty pageant, right, Ken?"
"What are you looking at me for," Ken questioned. "I mean, sure, I want Yolei to win, but…"
"Exactly, so we need to do our part and cheer and scream as loud as we can when she appears," Davis continued. "Alright, now, who has their Yolei posters ready?"
"What posters," Cody asked.
"Oh, come on, didn't you read our group chat," Davis asked.
"Davis, you wrote it last night," Kari said. "No one has time to make something like that so last minute."
"Since you made the plan, surely you have something with you," TK replied.
"Well, I was hoping I'd share the sign with someone," Davis said, embarrassed.
"Why am I not surprised," Ken replied.
"Well, I have glow sticks," Willis said, taking them from his bag.
"Finally, someone who's contributing," Davis said, reaching out for them.
"Not so fast," Willis said, pulling the bag away. "There's only two, and they're both for me. Go get your own support material somewhere else."
"Alright, that's it, Ken, we're going to get some supplies," Davis said, grabbing Ken's arm.
"Wait, why am I getting dragged into this," Ken asked.
"C'mon, don't you want Yolei to win," Davis asked.
"Well, yes, but...," Ken began.
"Then let's get to it. Onward," Davis shouted, running away from everyone.
"Davis, the event is about to start," Kari exclaimed.
"Sorry, not interested, which means there's more time to make something work," Davis said.
"Well, his loss," Willis said. "I was planning on giving the other one to Ken, but I guess I'll keep both of them."
"Couldn't you have said that earlier," Catherine asked.
"Come on, everyone, let's go inside and find some good spots," TK said.
As the group headed toward the auditorium, they were awed by the line of students waiting in anticipation for the next event.
"Wow, this is quite the draw," Catherine said. "I'm surprised so many people showed up."
"It's probably out of curiosity, since it's the first one," Joe replied.
"We're never going to get a good spot at this rate. We should have come earlier," TK replied.
"Perhaps it's for the best. There's no shame in standing near the back," Cody said.
"Besides, you can just zoom in with your devices, so it's no big deal," Kari added.
"Yeah, but the quality is going to be bad," TK replied.
"The lights are dimming," Rosa said, looking up.
Sure enough, the room started to go dark, and a spotlight shone on center stage.
"Welcome, everyone, to our 'beauty' pageant," the MC said. "Are you all ready to see what these 'lovely ladies' have in store for you?"
The crowd cheered with excitement.
"That was quite deafening," Catherine said.
"Your brothers are more popular than we thought," Cody said to Kari and TK.
"Hopefully, they'll actually look the part," Kari said.
"Let's meet our first contestant," the MC said. "She's a first-year transfer student from the land down under hoping to make a big wave in the northeastern sea. Give it up for Ms. Derek!"
Derek walked up onstage with a ruffle-laced blouse, a silk shawl, a frilled long skirt, high heeled boots, and an afro bun.
"Hello, everyone," Derek introduced himself.
"He looks… pretty bland," one student said.
"I can see the effort, but I wish there was something more," another student responded.
"He seems like a nice guy, though," a third commented.
"Next up is a second year exchange student from the western hemisphere," the MC continued. "Hoping her sense of style won't cause a bigger debate than Godzilla vs King Kong, here's Ms. Michael."
Michael came on wearing skinny jeans, a white tank top with a stuffed bra, a leather vest, a red neckerchief, cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, and blonde pigtail extensions.
"Howdy, y'all, vote for me, please," Michael said in a feminine voice.
"That's pretty convincing," a student remarked.
"He's not pulling any punches, for sure," another student commented.
"He has my vote for winning this pageant," a third student said.
"Our next contestant is a second year student who is the president of the computer club," the MC continued. "Showing that beauty and brains can coexist, here's Ms. Izzy."
Izzy hesitantly walked onstage with a frilly miniskirt, a puffy blouse with a pink ribbon, pink gloves, knee socks, performance shoes, a long black hair wig, and heavy makeup.
"H… Hi," Izzy reluctantly squeaked.
"W-What happened," a student questioned, trying to hold her laughter.
"He looks like a clown with all that make up," another student scoffed.
"This is what happens when you try too hard," a third student said.
"I feel really bad for Izzy," Cody said.
"You know, with some key corrections, he could have pulled it off," Catherine replied.
"Moving on to our next contestant, you may have already seen her rock the stage earlier today with her amazing voice, but can she translate that talent into fashion," the MC questioned. "Everyone, give a warm welcome to Ms. Matt."
Matt begrudgingly a schoolgirl uniform, a stuffed bra, flesh colored leggings, hair extensions, and a bow headband.
"This is torture," Matt muttered.
"N-No more," a student said, gasping for air.
"I really thought Matt would be able to pull it off," another student said, disappointed.
"I thought he was cooler than that," a third student replied, dejected.
"Have more confidence, Matt," TK chucked. "You got this!"
"His disdain for the whole thing is only making things worse," Willis replied.
"Our next contestant is the captain of our school soccer team," the MC continued. "Hoping to score a goal in your hearts, it's Ms. Tai!"
I walked in with a dark traditional kimono with geta shoes, light makeup, and my hair sleeked back.
"Good afternoon," I said, bowing.
"Wow, he's all in on his performance," a student said, impressed.
"But, he kinds looks like any other handsome guy mistaking a kimono for a yukata," another student said, concerned.
"I could totally see him walking around in festivals and such," a third student commented.
"I… don't know what to think about this," Kari said, conflicted.
"He's very pretty," Rosa said.
"Our final contestant is a last-minute sign-in and a friend to all these other 'beauties,'" the MC said. "Coming out from a TV to a festival near you, give it up for Ms. Teddie!"
Naturally, everyone was confused about an outsider entering unannounced. Teddie skipped about onstage wearing a red riding hood outfit with knee socks, a blonde wig, and a basket full of apples.
"Want a bite," Teddie asked, as he seductively bit an apple.
"Me," a student cried ecstatically. "I want to be that apple!"
"He's so adorable," another student screamed. "I want to hug him and squeeze him tight."
"He's totally pulling it off," a third student exclaimed.
"That's Teddie," Kari, TK, and Joe said in unison, surprised.
"Is he a friend of yours," Catherine asked.
"It's… hard to explain," TK replied.
Soon, the votes were tallied and given to the MC.
"I can confirm that the winner of our 'beauty' pageant is…," the MC said, "the mysterious last entrant, Ms. Teddie!"
"Woo hoo," Teddie shouted, jumping up and down with joy.
"Good for him; he deserved it," Sora said, smiling.
"I knew dressing him up as a classic character would get everyone's attention," Mimi said.
"He looks so happy," Yolei replied.
"And everyone's having a good time," Mina replied.
"As the winner of the beauty pageant, Ms. Teddie will receive several coupons to obtain any items provided in our festival," the MC added.
"I guess dinner is on Teddie tonight," I remarked.
"That won't do, Tai," Teddie said. "You have to aim even higher. I would like to exchange all these coupons to be the co-planner of the female beauty pageant!"
"Wait, can he do that," Matt asked.
"I don't see why not," Michael replied. "He could have just asked. I'd be more than happy to collaborate with him and hear his input."
"You heard it here, everyone," the MC said. "Ms. Teddie will now be one of the producers for the upcoming beauty pageant later this afternoon. Ms. Teddie, how are you feeling right now?"
"I've waited a long time for this moment," Teddie answered. "As your co-producers I declare that the beauty pageant will be… a swimsuit competition!"
The crowd erupted with joy.
"What," Sora exclaimed in horror. "He can't do that?!"
"But, he's one of the producers now," Yolei said, sadly.
"I didn't even bring a swimsuit," Mimi replied.
"Would we have time to get everything ready," Mina asked, troubled.
"Michael, say something," Matt retorted. "Teddie can't openly state things without your consent."
"Well, he kind of ruined the surprise," Michael chuckled.
"You were going to have them wear swimsuits this whole time," Izzy questioned, surprised.
"Isn't that what happens in most pageants," Michael questioned.
"Not in Japan, it isn't," I replied.
"As ecstatic as I am about the news as everyone else, we ask that everyone please leave the auditorium as we prepare for our next event," the MC said.
The girls for the beauty pageant went to the dressing room behind the auditorium where there were endless racks of assorted swimwear to choose from.
"All of these are so cute; I don't know which one to wear," Mimi said, scurrying through her options.
"These swimsuits are very… daring," Yolei said, looking around. "In fact, you can argue that all of them are."
"I appreciate that he wrote several suggestions on what to put on," Mina said, looking at the tags. "It makes choosing what to wear easier."
"I think it's scarier that he labeled those recommendations, as though he knows what our measurements are," Sora replied. "Shockingly, he's getting them right. How does he have that information?"
As Yolei looked through her options, she noticed that the girls from the athletic teams were openly changing and conversing among themselves. Yolei looked at their toned bodies and shapes and looked at herself.
"Yolei, what's wrong," Sora asked.
"I don't think I can do this," Yolei answered. "I can't compete against them. I just can't."
"Hey, don't talk about yourself like that," Mimi said, quickly coming over. "You are beautiful just the way you are, and no one can change that."
"Yolei, it's okay to step down if you want to. No one's forcing you to do anything," Sora replied.
"Sora, I'm trying to give her some confidence. The least you can do is back me up."
"The most important thing is that she's comfortable. Pressuring her is only going to amplify her uneasiness."
"I'm trying to help her break out of her shell. You're covering her in a warm blanket. She's not going to push herself if you help shy away her worries."
"You need to be more aware of other people's feelings. Right now, you're making things worse."
"Excuse me?!"
"Both of you, please," Yolei cried.
Sora and Mimi turned to notice Yolei's quivering state.
"I'm sorry, Yolei, I shouldn't have raised my voice like that," Mimi said. "I'm sorry Sora; I just wanted her to be more confident in herself."
"I do, too, but now isn't the right time," Sora answered. "There are other opportunities for her in the future."
"Excuse me, but what do you think of this," Mina said, walking towards them while carrying her swimsuit.
"It's so cute. I bet it'll look great on you," Mimi said.
"Where did you find it," Sora asked.
"It was in one of the racks near the girls over there," Mina said, pointing over to some of the art club members. "I know it wasn't recommended, but something about this outfit resonated with me. I'm happy I found it. If I hadn't searched through that area, I would've never found it in the first place."
Hearing Mina's words, Yolei searched through the same racks Mina did in an effort to find something that worked for her. When she found it, she showed her choice to everyone.
"Oh, that's bold; I like it," Mimi said, giving her a thumbs up.
"Yolei, you don't have to force yourself to wear it," Sora replied.
"No, I want to wear this," Yolei confirmed. "Plus, I think I'm okay with showing a bit of skin."
"Alright, then let's head over to the changing room," Mimi said. "We got to make sure you rock that thing before heading onstage."
I was standing with my fellow pageant performers near the front rows of the auditorium, which was packed with eager and excited students. Soon, the lights dimmed, and a single spotlight was shown onstage.
"Who's ready to meet some bikini babes," Teddie shouted at the microphone.
A thunderous applause rang throughout the auditorium.
"I can't believe the student body allowed a non-student to host an event," Izzy sighed.
"I'm more surprised you allowed him to host," Matt said to Michael. "Are you sure we can trust him to not cause a scene?"
"Well, I think he's a great guy," Michael replied. "Besides, we're both on the same wavelength. It's like having a twin brother I've never met."
"I can't tell who I should be more afraid of, you or Teddie," I chuckled.
"First up, it's our mature beauty, Ms. Sora," Teddie shouted.
Sora walked in wearing a yellow bikini and denim short shorts. Although Sora waved awkwardly, the crowd was awed by her presence.
"You know, I was half-expecting her to wear her school uniform in protest, but this is also nice," I replied. "You okay, Matt?"
"Huh? Yeah, I'm cool," Matt said, turning away.
I was unsure why he was acting so distant.
"Next up is our bubbly beauty, Ms. Mimi," Teddie announced.
Mimi skipped onstage wearing a frilly pink bikini with a bow on her top.
"Hello, everyone! Vote for me, please," Mimi said, waving at everyone.
The crowd showered her with cheers.
"Mimi, you're so hot! Please be my girlfriend," Michael shouted.
"Well, at least one of us is excited," I said. "What's your opinion, Izzy?"
"W-Why are you asking me that, all of a sudden," Izzy stuttered.
"I'm pretty sure we know what he's thinking," Derek said.
"Now, let's bring in our yoga beauty; it's Ms. Mina," Teddie said.
Mina walked onstage while wearing an orange floral bikini with a tropical cover-up skirt, which captured everyone's attention.
"Oh, she picked something that I didn't expect. That makes it even more alluring," Michael said, leaning closer.
"She does have the body of a model," Derek replied.
"She also has a great stage presence; everyone can't keep their eyes off her," Izzy said, looking around.
"She might actually give Mimi a run for her money," Matt replied.
"Coming up, we have our technology beauty. Give it up Ms. Yolei," Teddie announced.
It took a while, but Yolei eventually came onstage. While the crowd was impressed with her white one piece, confusion filled the room as Yolei stood nervously, not knowing what to do.
"This doesn't look good," Michael said, looking around.
"We have to do something, but what," Derek asked.
"Come on, Yolei, you can do it," Davis shouted.
Everyone turned to the back where Davis was forcing Ken to hold a sign supporting Yolei.
"Yolei, you can do it. Show them what you're made of," Davis continued to cheer. "Come on, Ken, say something."
Ken froze as he tried to think of the words to say.
"Yolei, you look… amazing," Ken eventually blurted out.
Ken's words renewed her confidence, and she quickly struck a dazzling pose, which enamored the audience.
"That's the spirit; you go, girl," Willis said, waving his glow sticks.
"Not bad at all," Catherine replied.
"Once she gets going, there's no stopping her," Cody replied.
"That's the Yolei we know and love," TK said.
"Given the crowd reaction, I think she has a chance," Kari replied.
"Go, Yolei, go," Rosa cheered.
After a few more poses, Yolei bowed, creating a thunderous applause. After the remaining students walked onstage, it was time for the voting phase. Once everyone's votes were accounted for, Teddie was handed an envelope.
"In my hand are the coveted results that everyone is waiting for," Teddie exclaimed. "And the winner of this year's beauty pageant goes to… the captain of the swimming club!"
Confetti rained onstage as everyone cheered for the winner.
"And here I thought I had a good shot," Mimi pouted.
"We were up against someone in their element, so it's not that big of a surprise," Sora explained.
"Win or lose, I had a good time," Mina said.
"I agree," Yolei replied. "At first, I was blanking out from all those people staring at me. Once Davis and the others started cheering for me, it gave me the courage I needed to face my fears. Thank you, Sora, Mimi, and Mina. I wouldn't have been able to go out there without everyone's support."
"Think nothing of it," Mimi said, smiling.
"You were the one who chose to take those steps. You should be proud of yourself," Sora said, patting Yolei's back.
"I love the energy we're having here," Mina said.
"Look how happy they are," I said to everyone, pointing towards the four of them.
"I'm glad they had fun," Derek replied.
"I guess that means my event was a success," Michael said.
"I don't think this should be an annual thing going forward," Matt stated.
"I second that notion," Izzy replied.
"Another round of applause to our beauties," Teddie said.
Everyone cheered for the girls as they took one big bow onstage.
To be continued*