Lauren’s TV debut

Lauren had never felt more humiliated in her entire life as the penguin on stage not only introduced her as a special guest but also pointed out some of the lies Maria had told them. She felt subconscious as she tried to pull at the dress to make it reach a little lower just as the camera panned over to her and the other kids.

Maria watched from the front middle of the audience, a special seat reserved just for her so that she could see her “daughter” with no obstructions at all. She smiled as she looked down at her phone as Vanessa texted her a picture of the group she had invited to watch along. Maria watched as one of the older girls (not including Lauren) walked onto the set. “Hey Lauren, are you ready for your first day of pre school?” the girl said, excitedly. “My name is Mia and I’m going to be your best friend. I know the first day can be pretty daunting, but I promise you’ll have fun!”

Lauren didn’t know what to do as this girl seemed to tower over her despite probably only being about an inch taller. It was enough for Lauren to lose any confidence she might have had. Lauren looked at Maria who was smiling at her from the audience who gave her a look that told her she better play along or she would regret it.

Lauren gulped unsure of whether she wanted to play along or... act a bit more... defiant.

She considered very carefully what she’d do next as the man in the penguin suit approached them.