With her annoyance reaching a boiling point, a tidal wave of anger swept over her.
She lunged forward, grabbing the person hiding behind a pillar.
The person didnât put up a fight.
Sarah recognized her instantly.
It was the diehard fan with the loudspeaker.
She was using the cardboard cutout to shield her face, as if she were playing some kind of spy game.
At first, Sarah thought she was just a hyperactive fan and was gearing up to give her a piece of her mind.
But then, she noticed a blue diamond bracelet on the fanâs wrist.
Sarahâs movements froze.
Her eyes zeroed in on that all-too-familiar bracelet.
She blinked, processing for a few seconds, and then blurted out in disbelief, âAriana?â
As she said her name, Sarah couldnât help but snatch the cardboard cutout away from Arianaâs face, revealing a broad smile.
âSurprise!â
As Sarah stepped closer, Ariana ditched the cardboard and Loudspeaker, opening her arms wide for a warm hug.
Sarah was at a loss for words, while Ariana spoke with a big smile,
âSo, howâs this for a surprise, superstar?â
For Sarah, it was more than just surprising.
Realizing who was behind this spectacle, she pulled Ariana into a heartfelt hug.
A grin stretched across her face, though she had to make a small jab.
âYou had me fooled there.
I was about to have my security escort you out.
â
Ariana let out a laugh.
âEven if you had me kicked out, I wouldâve found a way back to you.
â
Sarah shot her a playful look and gave Arianaâs cheek a pinch.
âYou set me up, didnât you? Made me think youâd be gone for a long time.
â
Arianaâs grin turned sly.
âSo, what do you think? Was it a good act of fandom or what?â
âIt was amazing,â Sarah shot back, her voice tinged with excitement.
âBut if Iâd caught on a few seconds later, my way of showing love might have involved some fisticuffs.
â
âWould you really have the heart to hit this delicate face?â Ariana pouted, leaning into Sarah as though she were made of glass.
âNo way could I.
â Sarah chuckled, playfully pushing Ariana.
âEnough messing around.
Letâs go.
â
And so, the two made their way to Sarahâs car.