By the time the press event ended, Sofia’s nerves were shredded. Cameras, applause, and the echo of Tristan Jacinto’s gaze all clung to her like static. She practically fled the ballroom the moment it wrapped.
Ginny trotted beside her, camera bag slung over one shoulder. “You did amazing,” she said cheerfully. “Professional, sharp, and just a little bit flirty without meaning to. Honestly, Sofie, if you don’t bag a cover story and a man, I will be disappointed.”
Sofia groaned. “It was not flirty. It was terrifying.”
“Same difference,” Ginny shot back.
They decided to spend the rest of the afternoon away from the glossy world of press conferences. Central was alive with Sunday energy, the sidewalks crowded with Filipinas sitting on flattened cardboard boxes, unpacking rice cookers and p
