CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FOUR - Friendly Faces, Hidden Stories

As they worked, Rebecca found herself pondering what wish she might make when the fair opened. For the first time in a long while, she felt truly content, truly part of something larger than herself. Whatever challenges lay ahead back at the Castelli Estate, she knew she would face them with renewed strength and perspective. The day of the fair's opening dawned bright and clear, a perfect late summer morning. Rebecca arrived at the fairgrounds early, her stomach fluttering with a mix of excitement and nerves. Today was the day of the pie-baking contest, and despite her initial reservations, she had decided to enter. The community kitchen was a hive of activity, with contestants bustling about, gathering ingredients and claiming workspace. Rebecca found herself at a station between Mrs. Johnson and a young man she hadn't met before, who introduced himself as Billy. "First time entering?" Billy asked, noticing Rebecca's nervous energy. Rebecca nodded, managing a smile. "Is it that ob