As the video continued, it was only towards the end, amidst Ariana’s commentary, that the camera briefly turned her way.
A small change flickered across Holden’s usually steady face.
He rewound the video, just a tad.
Because of the angle, only a portion of Ariana’s profile was in view.
That short glimpse made Holden’s heart do a little jump. He watched that part again and again, his forehead creased in confusion.
After several views, he sat back, a mix of surprise and disbelief swirling within. That brief profile, that fleeting second. How could she so closely resemble the woman he’d met on the cruise ship?
The next morning, Ariana was up early and made her way to the practice room.
In no time, everyone had gathered, mostly punctual.
Her eyes landed on the twin brothers, Franklin and Woodrow Chamberlain. They were on time, but their faces were heavily painted with makeup, making them stand out.
Noticing they weren’t going to remove it on their own, Ariana approached them.
“You two, over here.”
The twins glanced at each other, then followed her to a corner.
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“We agreed on no makeup today. What’s with the heavy look?” Ariana asked.
The twins stood firm.
“There are cameras here, and we just feel weird without makeup.”
“You look out of place with it now. Go take it off.” Ariana’s voice held a note of finality.
“But..” they said, stammering.
The twins started to protest, but Ariana cut them off.
“Now.”
Realizing arguing was futile, the twins headed to the restroom.
When they emerged, their natural looks took the practice room by surprise.