The next day, KE campus practically vibrated with excitement.
The central field overflowed with colorful stalls, game booths, music, and crowds of students moving between activities. Laughter drifted through the air from morning onward, creating an atmosphere closer to a carnival than a school event.
Unfortunately, Kaija got to enjoy absolutely none of it.
Like every other contestant, she spent most of the day locked inside her flat, rehearsing until her throat felt dry and her legs ached from repetition. By the time she finally headed toward the concert hall in the late afternoon, the competition was only a few hours away.
The moment she entered backstage, however, she knew something was wrong.
A crowd had gathered near the costume racks.
Dani's unmistakable orange hair stood out immediately.
So did Esko's green hair.
The expressions on their faces made Kaija's stomach drop.
Esko looked moments away from a complete emotional collapse.
Dani looked ready to commit homicide.
