Chapter 2: The Grand Reopening

The morning sun streamed through the large shop windows, casting a warm glow over the freshly cleaned wooden floors. The Chiffon Tailor Shop was alive with movement as Candace, Luna, and Shelly bustled about, making sure everything was perfect for their grand reopening.

Bolts of fabric in every shade imaginable were neatly arranged on the shelves, from soft pastels to rich jewel tones. Wooden crates stacked against the back wall held rolls of yarn and spools of thread, their vibrant colors catching the light as if they were tiny jewels. The scent of fresh linen and lavender filled the air, a nostalgic reminder of the shop's past.

Candace carefully adjusted the outfits displayed on the mannequins. Each one showcased her impeccable tailoring skills—an elegant sky-blue gown with delicate lace trim, a sturdy yet stylish coat lined with wool for the colder seasons, and a casual yet chic dress perfect for an afternoon stroll through Waffle Town. Every stitch, every fold, every button was meticulously placed.

Luna, meanwhile, focused on arranging accessories—hand-sewn scarves, knitted gloves, and embroidered handkerchiefs—all carefully crafted to complement Candace's designs. She adjusted a silk ribbon on one of the displays, stepping back with a proud nod. "We really did all this, huh?" she murmured in amazement.

Shelly inspected the store with a keen eye, making sure everything was in its rightful place. She had spent the morning sweeping, dusting, and even polishing the shop's old sign hanging above the entrance. Now, it shone proudly, welcoming customers back into the family business.

Candace let out a small sigh, smoothing out the folds of her own neatly pressed skirt. "I just hope people come," she admitted quietly.

Luna grinned, throwing an arm around her sister's shoulder. "Are you kidding? Everyone's been waiting for this place to open again! Waffle Town needs their best tailors back."

Shelly nodded in agreement. "Your parents built something wonderful here. And now, it's your turn to carry on the legacy."

Candace's face softened with gratitude. She clutched the measuring tape draped around her neck, taking a deep breath. "Alright," she said with determination. "Let's do this."

With one final glance around the shop, Luna rushed to the front door and flipped the sign to read: "OPEN FOR BUSINESS!" The Chiffon Tailor Shop was officially back.

The grand opening of the Chiffon Tailor Shop was nothing short of a celebration. The streets of Waffle Town bustled with excitement as townsfolk gathered outside the shop, each person eager to welcome back the long-lost family and see the beautiful work Candace and Luna had put on display.

Tables were set up outside, adorned with fresh flowers and light refreshments provided by nearby vendors. The scent of baked goods from Sundae Inn mixed with the refreshing Spring air, adding to the warmth of the occasion. People came bearing small gifts—handmade trinkets, fresh produce, and even some rare fabrics that they thought would be useful for the shop.

Inside, the shop was alive with chatter and admiration. Customers ran their fingers over the soft fabrics, marveling at the vibrant colors and the craftsmanship in every stitch. The mannequins dressed in Candace's creations became the centerpiece of the event, drawing awe and endless compliments.

"Candace, this coat is exquisite! You really have your mother's touch," Yolanda praised, patting Candace's hand with warmth.

"I always knew you'd take after your parents," Colleen chimed in. "It's wonderful to have you back."

Shelly, standing beside Candace, was equally showered with appreciation. Many remembered the days when she used to run the shop with her son and daughter-in-law, and they were overjoyed to see her return.

Luna, however, had a slightly different experience. As she greeted familiar faces, she noticed the same pattern—awkward smiles, hesitant glances downward, and forced enthusiasm. The moment someone recognized her, their eyes would widen slightly, and they would stammer their welcome.

"L-Luna! It's, um, good to see you again," Owen said, scratching the back of his head.

"Wow, you… haven't changed a bit," Luke muttered, then quickly cleared his throat. "I mean, your hair has gotten so long! It's beautiful!"

A chuckle here, a nervous smile there—Luna could feel it all. She was keenly aware of how much shorter she was compared to the other young adults who had grown into their full heights. A decade had passed, yet while everyone had changed, she remained almost the same. Still, she forced herself to smile, thanking them for coming. She wouldn't let something as trivial as her height ruin this special day.

And despite the awkward greetings, the grand opening was a spectacular success. Orders were already being placed, customers were leaving with smiles on their faces, and the warmth of homecoming settled deep in Candace and Luna's hearts.

Shelly turned to Luna amidst the bustling shop, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Luna, could you run to the inn and grab more refreshments for the guests?"

Luna perked up, eager to step outside for a moment. "Got it! Be right back!" she chirped before slipping through the crowd and heading down the familiar cobblestone roads of Waffle Town.

As she made her way to the inn, her gaze drifted across the town square—and that's when she saw him, Gill. Her heart fluttered unexpectedly, a rush of emotions stirring within her. He walked with an air of quiet confidence, his sharp, well-tailored suit only adding to his dignified presence. Even after all these years, he was just as composed, just as polished—if not more so. The Gill she remembered had always carried himself with a certain maturity, but now, he had fully grown into the role of future mayor of Waffle Town.

Luna felt her breath hitch slightly as she watched him stride through town, the golden afternoon light casting a soft glow around him. She suddenly felt small—not just in height, but in presence. Ten years ago, they had been equals in so many ways, but now… He is tall and handsome. While she is petite.

Shaking off her flustered thoughts, Luna clenched her fists and took a deep breath. "Get a grip," she muttered to herself as she slapped her rosy cheeks. Without hesitation, she rushed forward, a bright smile lighting up her face. "Gill!"

He stopped in his tracks, turning slowly to face her. His blue eyes—always so keen and intelligent—landed on her with mild surprise before settling into something more neutral.

"Yes, Luna, what do you want?" he asked, his voice cold and formal.

Luna blinked, taken aback by his tone. Still, she refused to let it discourage her. She rocked on her heels, clasping her hands behind her back. "The tailor shop is having its grand reopening today! It would mean a lot if you stopped by."

Gill sighed, adjusting the papers he held in his arms. "I'm much too busy for that," he replied flatly.

Luna's smile faltered. She had expected Gill to be his usual distant self, but this? This was different. His words were curt—almost as if he wanted nothing to do with her.

"But…" she started, then paused before shaking her head and forcing a determined smile. "Come on, just for a little while? You have to admit, it's kind of exciting that Candace and I are back in town!"

Gill exhaled sharply, rubbing his temple as if she were exhausting him already. "I'm glad you're settling in, but I really don't have time for celebrations."

Luna frowned, but she wasn't ready to give up just yet. "Do you remember when we were kids?" Gill stiffened but gave a short nod, saying nothing. "And do you remember… the day I left Waffle Town?" she pressed gently, searching his face for a reaction.

For a split second, something flickered in his expression—an emotion she couldn't quite name. He shifted uncomfortably, his grip tightening on his papers. "I have to go," he muttered as he turned to leave.

Luna opened her mouth to call after him, but the words caught in her throat. She watched him walk away, confusion and hurt settling deep in her chest. She had expected an awkward reunion, maybe even some teasing banter. But this… this cold, distant version of Gill was something she hadn't been prepared for. With a heavy sigh, Luna turned back toward the inn, her earlier excitement now clouded by unanswered questions.

Luna returned to the Chiffon Tailor Shop with slow, dragging steps, the bag of refreshments in her hands feeling heavier than it should. The lively chatter of guests filled the shop, but she barely heard any of it. Her heart weighed her down more than anything else.

Shelly immediately noticed the shift in Luna's usual energy. Setting down a neatly folded bolt of fabric, she walked over and placed a gentle hand on Luna's shoulder. "Luna, sweetheart, what's wrong?"

Luna bit her lip, hesitating before muttering, "Gill… isn't coming."

Shelly's expression softened with understanding. "Oh, Luna," she sighed. "Gill's been preparing to take over as mayor—he's got a lot on his plate right now. I'm sure it's nothing personal."

Luna nodded absently, her fingers gripping the handle of the bag a little tighter. "I know… I just thought…" She trailed off, swallowing the lump forming in her throat.

The truth was, it wasn't just his absence that hurt. It was the way he had looked at her earlier, the awkward distance in his voice, the way he had treated her like a passing acquaintance rather than an old friend. Once upon a time, they had been close—sharing secrets, arguments, and dreams under the very same sky. But now, it felt like those days had been buried beneath the passage of time, fading into something insignificant.

Shelly gave her shoulder a comforting squeeze. "Give it time, dear. People change, but that doesn't mean they forget. He might just need a little reminder of the girl he used to know."

Luna forced a small smile, but deep down, the ache remained. Maybe he had changed too much—or maybe, she hadn't changed enough.

As the grand opening event began to wind down, laughter and warm conversations filled the tailor shop. The townspeople had showered Candace, Luna, and Shelly with praise, and the once-empty shop now felt like a thriving part of Waffle Town once more. Just as Luna was about to relax, the soft chime of the shop's doorbell rang again, signaling one more visitor.

A striking young man sauntered in, his presence immediately commanding attention. His long, spiky purple hair cascaded past his shoulders, a vibrant contrast to his pale skin. His deep red eyes glimmered with amusement, holding a gentle yet mischievous air. His outfit was nothing short of extravagant—his frilly red vest layered over a fitted white shirt, his tight black denim pants hugging his legs perfectly, and his heeled white boots clicking elegantly against the floor with each step. Every inch of him radiated flair and confidence.

Candace and Luna exchanged wary glances. The way he carried himself, the way his fashion choices screamed expertise—for a moment, they believed that he was he a rival tailor. Someone here to judge their work or perhaps even steal their clientele?

Clearing her throat, Candace took a step forward and bowed politely. "Welcome to Chiffon Tailor Shop. Is there anything I can help you with?"

The young man let out a soft chuckle, bringing the back of his hand to his chin in an almost theatrical display. "Oh, Candace," he purred, a teasing smirk playing on his lips, "long time no see."

Candace blinked, utterly perplexed. Beside her, Luna tilted her head, equally confused. They both searched his face, trying to place the familiar tone in his voice, wondering if they had they met him before.

Finally, Luna hesitantly asked, "And… you are?"

The man gasped dramatically, placing a hand over his chest as if he had been hurt. Then, with a flourish, he bowed deeply, his purple locks spilling over his shoulder as he grinned up at them.

"I am hurt, but it has been ten years. I guess I should reintroduce myself," he declared, drawing out the words in mock sorrow before straightening up and flipping his hair. "It's me—Julius!"

Luna and Candace's eyes widened in shock, realization crashing over them. "Julius?!" they exclaimed in unison.

The flamboyant young man placed a hand on his hip, smirking triumphantly. "The one and only!"

Luna's wide-eyed shock quickly twisted into a glare, her fists clenching at her sides as years of buried resentment resurfaced. The memories came flooding back—Julius, the boy who used to tease Candace relentlessly, the one who made her cry when they were children. His sharp remarks and playful jabs had chipped away at Candace's confidence, leaving her the shy and reserved woman she was today.

Luna's heart pounded with anger as she jabbed a finger at him, her voice ringing through the shop. "I remember you now! You were Candace's bully!"

The warmth in Julius' smirk faltered for a brief second before he let out a nervous chuckle, raising his hands in defense. "Whoa, whoa, 'bully' is such a strong word. I prefer to think of it as—"

"You made her cry!" Luna cut him off, stepping back, her blue eyes blazing with indignation. "You teased her all the time! You called her names! You made her this shy!"

Julius winced, scratching the back of his head as guilt flickered across his face. He glanced at Candace, who had turned red, nervously fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. Though she hadn't said a word, the way she averted her eyes spoke volumes.

"Okay… maybe I was a little harsh back then," Julius admitted sheepishly, rubbing his temple. "But come on, that was years ago! I was a dumb kid, and—"

"No excuses!" Luna snapped, crossing her arms. "Do you even know how hard it was for Candace to talk to people after what you did? How long it took her to come out of her shell?"

Julius sighed, his playful demeanor slipping away. His red eyes softened as he turned his attention fully to Candace. "Candace… I really am sorry," he said, his voice more sincere than before. "I never meant to hurt you. I thought I was just joking around, but I see now that I was an idiot. I should've realized how my words affected you."

Julius leaned back slightly, his lips curling into a mocking smile as he fixed his gaze on Luna. "Oh, in my defense," he began, his voice dripping with amusement, "you were a bully too. You always intervened when I was just having a bit of fun, and then you'd tackle me and beat me up. So, I'd say we're even."

Luna's temper flared instantly. Her face flushed with fury, and before Julius could even finish his sentence, she stormed over to him, her hands balled into fists. With a growl, she shoved him hard, sending him stumbling toward the direction of the front door.

"That's it!" she shouted, her voice filled with righteous anger. "You're banned from the shop! Get out!"

Julius staggered back, catching himself before he could fall. He raised an eyebrow, clearly unfazed, but a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "Oh, come on, Luna," he drawled, brushing himself off. He cast a flirtatious glance toward Candace, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Maybe I'll see you another day?"

Luna's blood boiled. "Never again," she shouted. She stepped between Candace and Julius, blocking his path, her voice low and dangerous. "Don't come near my sister ever again," she warned, her eyes flashing with protective fury.

Julius shrugged, pretending to look nonchalant as he gave a casual wave. "Relax, Luna. I don't bite," he said, his tone light and teasing, but there was a glimmer of understanding in his eyes, as if he'd realized this wasn't just a playful confrontation anymore.

But Luna wasn't backing down. She planted herself in front of him, arms crossed and stance firm, unwilling to let him get away with it this time. "Get out. Now," she demanded, her voice a sharp, unwavering command.

For a moment, Julius stared at her, the playful edge gone from his expression. He looked over at Candace, his gaze lingering just a moment longer, then he sighed heavily. "Alright, alright," he muttered, raising his hands in mock surrender. "I get it. I'll go."

But as he reached for the door handle, he paused, giving one last lingering look at Candace. His voice softened, almost tender. "Take care of yourself, Candace," he said quietly, before walking out, the door swinging shut behind him.

Luna stood there, seething with anger, her fists still clenched at her sides. "Don't let him come back," she spat under her breath, her voice sharp with frustration.

Candace, though visibly rattled, placed a gentle hand on Luna's shoulder. "Luna… I'm fine," she said softly, trying to calm her sister's fiery nerves.

Luna turned to her, her cheeks flushed with the intensity of her emotions. "He hurt you, Candace. I won't let him get away with it. Not again."

Candace gave her sister a small, understanding smile. "I know, Luna. I know. But you don't have to protect me all the time. I'm stronger than you think."

Luna's jaw clenched, but she knew Candace was right. Despite the years of teasing and bullying, Candace had grown into a beautiful, shy woman, no thanks to Julius. Luna doesn't want him to affect her any further. Luna couldn't help but mutter, "He better stay away from you, or I'll… I'll…" She trailed off, not sure how to finish the threat.

Candace chuckled softly, giving her sister a reassuring squeeze. "Don't worry, Luna. I think Julius learned his lesson today." Luna wasn't so sure, but for now, she would have to let it go. She wasn't about to let anyone hurt her sister again—not on her watch.

Later that evening, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, the shop's atmosphere grew quiet and peaceful. The hustle and bustle of the grand reopening had settled down, leaving only the soft hum of the evening air and the steady clink of knitting needles. Candace sat at the corner of the work table, knitting a soft sweater, the rhythmic motion of her hands soothing. She was lost in the task, her eyes focused on the fabric taking shape beneath her fingers.

Across the room, Luna busied herself checking their stock of materials, counting the rolls of fabric and spools of thread. The shop had finally settled into its new rhythm, and there was a sense of accomplishment in the air. The Chiffon Tailor Shop was back, and it felt like home.

Candace's voice broke the silence, soft but clear as she reached into the basket of yarn beside her. "Oh, I forgot the pink yarn," she muttered to herself, her fingers brushing over the colors she'd already chosen.

Luna immediately turned toward her, a helpful glint in her eye. "I'll get it. Where is it?"

Candace looked up with a smile, her fingers still working the needles. "It's on the shelf by the front door."

Luna nodded eagerly and made her way toward the front of the shop, her steps light with purpose despite the long day behind her. The scent of lavender and linen hung in the air, soothing and familiar, but her mind was already on the final task before closing. She scanned the rows of neatly arranged shelves until her gaze settled on the yarn—specifically, the soft, pastel pink she needed.

There it was, right on the top shelf. Her shoulders dropped as she realizes the situation. "Figures," she muttered under her breath, her voice tinged with exasperation. While the shelf posed no challenge for someone like Candace, who stood comfortably over five and a half feet tall, for Luna and her modest 4'9" frame, it might as well have been a mountaintop. She stared up at it, hands on her hips, the yarn glowing almost mockingly under the shop's warm lights.

Her eyes flicked to a wooden chair tucked neatly in the corner. It wasn't the first time she'd used it today—probably wouldn't be the last. She dragged it over with a soft scrape against the wooden floor, the sound echoing faintly in the quiet shop. The old wood creaked under her as she stepped up, balancing carefully on the edge. She rose onto her tiptoes, stretching her arm as far as it could go. Her fingers brushed the edge of the skein. Not enough. She strained a little more, her arm trembling with the effort.

"So close. I can do this." Her brow furrowed, lips pressed into a thin line of determination. She hated asking for help—especially for something as trivial and routine as this. Every time she needed a boost or a hand, it scraped at her pride like sandpaper. She knew Candace wouldn't mind, of course. But that didn't make it easier. It didn't make her feel less… small.

She leaned in further, chest tight with frustration. Her fingertips grazed the yarn again, just enough to make it twist slightly in place. Almost. Almost. The wooden chair let out a groan of protest beneath her. Still she refused to call out. She wouldn't give in. Not yet. "I've got it," she whispered to herself, voice more fragile than firm now. But the truth was beginning to settle heavily in her gut: she might not. And it wasn't just the yarn. It was everything it represented.

As Luna strained for the pink yarn, her small fingers just brushing the soft fibers, the gentle chime of the front doorbell broke the quiet hum of the shop. A breeze of salt and pine slipped in before the door clicked shut again, followed by the slow, curious footsteps of someone new.

A young man stepped past Luna, barely noticing her as he took in the shop's cozy interior. He looked to be in his early twenties, tall and broad-shouldered, with a presence that seemed to carry the outdoors with him. Wind-tossed brown hair framed a sun-kissed face, and his warm, curious brown eyes scanned the room with genuine wonder. He wore a white work shirt with the sleeves rolled to his elbows, revealing the lean muscle of someone used to heavy labor. A faded bandanna hung loosely around his neck, and his blue cargo pants were scuffed and stained, signs of hard use. His leather boots were worn and dirt-dusted, but well cared for—practical, dependable.

"Wow, a tailor shop?" he said aloud, his voice light and cheerful. "Looks like I can finally get my clothes mended. This is great!"

He moved farther into the room, the wood floor creaking faintly under his boots. His eyes wandered, clearly impressed—shelves neatly lined with skeins of vibrant yarn, bolts of patterned fabric rolled in tidy rows, and mannequins dressed in elegant, hand-sewn outfits.

Across the room, Candace looked up from the sweater she'd been quietly knitting, her hands stilling mid-stitch. Her soft blue eyes landed on the newcomer, narrowing slightly in mild surprise. She knew everyone in Waffle Town, and this man wasn't one of them. He was tall—taller than any of the local townsfolk—and with the sort of rough-around-the-edges look that suggested a traveler or perhaps a new resident.

Candace straightened in her seat, her expression polite but guarded. "Good evening," she said gently, setting her knitting needles aside. "I don't believe we've met."

The man smiled warmly, a hint of kindness in his eyes as he approached her. "The name's Kevin," he said with a grin. "I run a farm out in the Caramel River District. Looks like you've got a fine shop here."

Candace blinked for a moment, surprised at how easygoing Kevin seemed, but she quickly masked any thoughts. She returned his smile, offering a handshake. "I'm Candace. It's nice to meet you, Kevin."

Kevin shook her hand firmly, then glanced around the shop again, clearly impressed by the setup. "This place is exactly what Waffle Town needs," he said with a nod, a bit of pride in his voice.

Candace raised an eyebrow at this, tilting her head slightly. "Oh, so you're new to Waffle Town? I've never seen you around before."

Kevin chuckled lightly, the sound warm and easy. "Yep, I'm still getting used to the place. Moved here two years ago when I started my farm. The Caramel River District has been a good place for farming and ranching, but you know how it is. Sometimes you need to get your work clothes patched up after a long day in the fields."

Candace's eyes softened with understanding. "I can only imagine how much wear and tear a farm can put on your clothes," she said, her tone empathetic. "We're happy to help, of course. It's what we do."

Kevin gave a small, appreciative nod. "Well, I'm glad to know where to come when something needs mending. And, to be honest, I've heard a lot of good things about your shop. This place has a real... hometown feel to it, you know?"

Candace smiled at the compliment. "Thank you, that's exactly what we're going for. We want to make sure the people of Waffle Town feel like this is a place they can always come back to. Do you happen to work alone?" Candace asked. "I imagine farming can be a lot of work, especially with everything that needs to be done."

Kevin nodded thoughtfully, scratching the back of his head. "I do work on the farm by myself, but I've gotten used to things. It's a lot of work! It's the kind of lifestyle that grows on you. Waffle Town's been good to me, so I'm looking forward to getting to know more folks around here."

Candace smiled. "Well, we're happy to have you. And if you ever need anything fixed up, don't hesitate to come by."

Kevin's eyes twinkled with gratitude. "I'll keep that in mind. Maybe you can even make me a new shirt or two. I've got a couple of old ones I've been meaning to replace."

Candace chuckled softly. "We'd be happy to help with that, too."

Kevin and Candace then exchanged their goodbyes, and Kevin turned to leave, his boots tapping softly against the wooden floor. The warm street lights filtered through the windows, casting a soft glow over the shop as he moved toward the front door.

Kevin's gaze swept the shop until it landed on Luna—still perched precariously on a chair, arms stretched out, fingers straining for the pink yarn just beyond her reach. He paused, watching her for a second with a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. There was something quietly determined, even stubborn, in the way she tiptoed and refused to give in.

Without a word, he stepped closer and, with casual ease, plucked the yarn from the shelf. "Here you go," he said, offering it out to her with a warm, easy smile.

Luna spun around, startled. She snatched the yarn from his hand, bristling. "Hey, buddy, I didn't ask for your help!" she snapped, her voice sharp with irritation. "And furthermore—"

She stopped mid-sentence, the words catching in her throat. Her eyes met his, and everything stilled. His face was softly handsome—sun-warmed skin, tousled hair, and eyes the color of earth after rain. There was no smugness in them, no mockery, just gentle kindness that completely disarmed her.

Her cheeks flushed, and her breath hitched in her chest. "Who is this guy?" she thought, heart skipping. "He's… kinda cute…"

Kevin knelt down slowly, lowering himself to her eye level, the wooden floor creaking slightly beneath him. His smile widened, a little amused, a little curious. "I'm Kevin," he said, his voice light, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "And you are?"

Luna blinked. She wasn't sure what she expected, but it wasn't this—this strange man crouching like she was a lost child in need of comfort. Her jaw tightened. "Luna," she said, curtly. Then, pointedly, "I work here."

There was a beat of silence between them. Kevin, clearly oblivious to the tension simmering just beneath her polite facade, reached out and ruffled her pink hair like she was someone's precocious little sister. "You're just adorable," he chuckled. "I bet you'll be really cute when you grow up."

Luna froze, her heart skipping—not with flattery, but with a sharp, sour twist of indignation. "When I grow up?" The words echoed in her mind, each syllable more irritating than the last. Her brow furrowed, lips parting in stunned disbelief.

But before she could summon a scathing retort or even clarify her age, Kevin had already straightened up. He offered her one last casual smile, completely unaware of the emotional landmine he'd just stepped on.

"Well, I've got to head out now," he said with an easy wave, already turning for the door. "Take care, Luna."

She stared at his retreating figure, her irritation simmering into something closer to offense. "He's just gonna walk out after saying that? Like it was nothing?" Her fists tightened around the yarn still clutched in her hand. Her cheeks burned, not with embarrassment, but with pure, unfiltered indignation.

"Why you…" She didn't think. Didn't plan. She just reacted. With a snap of her wrist, Luna hurled the pink yarn toward Kevin. The ball flew with surprising speed, skimming across the air and smacking him with a soft thunk just behind his head.

Kevin paused at the thud, half-turning to glance over his shoulder. He spotted the yarn at his feet, then followed its path back to the tiny pink haired girl glaring at him from behind him.

Luna stood with one hand on her hip, the other forming a fist, her tongue stuck out in defiance. "Oops!" she called, her voice honeyed with sarcasm. "Sorry! Don't mind me! I'm just a dumb little kid!"

Kevin raised an eyebrow, clearly confused by her sudden shift in attitude. He shrugged, thinking nothing of it before turning around again and continuing on his way out the door.

The moment Kevin disappeared down the road, Luna's playful smile vanished, replaced by an angry scowl. "What a jerk!" she thought, her fists clenched tightly. "He actually thinks I'm a kid? Fine, I'll show him that I can be a real petty kid!" Luna stormed over to the counter, her cheeks flushed with a mix of frustration and determination. Her mind raced, already plotting ways to make Kevin regret his careless words.

She could feel a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of her mouth as the ideas began to form. "Maybe I'll start by hiding his boots or moving his tools around just enough to annoy him." Or better yet, she mused, "I'll let him think he's safe... and then sneak in the perfect little prank at the worst time!" She could already see Kevin's face when he realized just how wrong he was about her. Her heart beats faster with excitement at the thought of taking matters into her own hands, and Luna was ready—ready to make him see that she wasn't just some little kid. No, she was something far more unpredictable. And Kevin was about to find that out the hard way.