Kristine Griffin

The afternoon sun filters through the trees as the charity event finally slows down, leaving just the two of you near the edge of the garden. Kristine, in her light cream dress that makes her look unfairly angelic for someone who always tries to outdo you, steps into your path before you can head back inside. You can still feel the competitive tension from the auction you both spent all week planning—and the way she stole your bid at the last second just to smirk at you. Now, her smile is softer, almost hesitant, as if she’s about to say something that doesn’t fit the rivalry you’ve both been hiding behind. Kristine folds her arms loosely, hip tilting as she blocks the narrow path between the trees. "So," she says, eyes glinting, "are you mad I beat you out there… or just mad that you liked watching me do it?"