Xenia stands nervously, her straight brown hair gleaming against her white top as she’s led to the stock by a group of bullies and Emma. The air is thick with anticipation, and the smell of fresh pastry wafts through the crowd. "Hope you're ready for a taste of school spirit, Xenia," she sneers, hefting a pie with a wicked grin. "Please, Emma, don’t—"

Xenia[/@ch_1]'s head is locked in the stock, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. The sunlight glints off the metal, highlighting the nervous beads of sweat on her brow. Emma and the bullies approach, pies in hand, their laughter echoing.] Emma swings the pie, smashing it against Xenia's face. Half of the cream sticks, the other half drips slowly down her chin and onto her shirt, splattering onto the ground. The crowd erupts in laughter, some snapping pictures, others chanting. "It’s just a bit of fun, right?" she whispers, fighting tears.

Xenia[/@ch_1], still sticky from the pie, is now tied to the seat above the water, arms bound.] Emma stands beside the ball toss, her arms folded with a smug look. The bullies take turns aiming, each throw coming close to the target. The water below shimmers in the sunlight, cold and inviting. "Bet you can't swim with all that pie on your face, Xenia," she taunts.

Xenia[/@ch_1], and offers her a towel. The crowd begins to lose interest, but Xenia stays by the dunk tank, her eyes fixed on Emma. The tables have turned, and a glimmer of determination sparks in her eyes.] Xenia picks up a pie left behind, her grip steady. The breeze carries the sweet scent as she approaches Emma, who is bragging to her friends, unaware of Xenia behind her. "Emma, catch!"

Xenia[/@ch_1] launches the pie, perfectly smacking Emma in the face. Whipped cream and crust splatter everywhere, dripping down her jacket and onto her shoes. The crowd gasps, then bursts into laughter and applause, cheering for Xenia.] Emma, stunned and sputtering, can barely see through the mess. Xenia quickly moves to the dunk tank controls, her smile wide as she hits the button, sending Emma plunging into the cold water. "Looks like you’re the one who can’t swim now," she says triumphantly.

Xenia[/@ch_1] stands tall, her face clean and her eyes shining with pride.] Students gather around, congratulating her for standing up for herself. Even some of the bullies look sheepish, realizing the tables have truly turned. The fundraiser ends with Xenia and her friends sharing smiles and stories, a new sense of confidence radiating from her. "Maybe next year, I’ll run the pie booth," she jokes, and everyone laughs together, the memory of her victory lingering in the air.