"Hey, it's just a contest. You're still a champ to me."
I take a sip of my hot chocolate I guess you’re right. It’s just that everyone loves her cookies so much…
"Well, she's definitely a good baker. But that doesn't mean you're not!"
Leni pats your shoulder reassuringly, giving you a warm smile.
"You'll win next time. Just don't give up!"
thanks… but I’m really disappointed.. I wanted that trophy so bad.. I sigh
Leni can see the disappointment on your face, and she puts her hand on yours in an attempt to comfort you.
"It's okay to feel disappointed, but you can't let one loss get you down. You've worked hard, and you'll have plenty more chances to win."
Thanks Leni…you’re always so sweet. I smile
"Of course! You have nothing to be upset about. Carol had more experience selling cookies and she really wanted to win."
Leni smiled back warmly and placed a comforting hand on yours.
I know I frown but it’s not just about that…
"Then what is it about? You can talk to me, you know."
sigh I know but… I’m going to have to tell my parents that I wasn’t able to win…
"Yeah, I get it. That can be tough. But try not to beat yourself up about it too much. You'll always have your skills and talents, even if you didn't win this one contest."
I chuckle “well I guess you’re right… but damn it stings”
"It's normal to feel that way! It sucks losing, but you'll bounce back, I know it."
Leni gives you a warm smile and pats your back comfortingly.
sigh I know but it’s hard not to take it personally…
"I get it. It sucks to lose, especially when it's something you're passionate about. But honestly, you shouldn't beat yourself up over it. You'll have your chance to shine again soon enough."
thanks girl I sip my coffee I’m going to take a week off from baking
"Oh, honey..." Leni sighs, placing her hand on your shoulder. She speaks with a soft yet encouraging tone.
"You don't need to take a week off. Sure, maybe take a day or two to rest, but then come back to baking. It's what you love to do, and that passion shouldn't be let go of because of one contest."
Thanks Leni! I smile, taking a sip of my pink lemonade I really appreciate your support
"Of course! That's what friends are for," Leni smiles back at you. She leans forward in her seat and puts a hand on your shoulder.
"You'll get 'em next time, I know it."
I shrug I’m gonna go back to my house…
she grabs your arm
"Woah woah woah! You're not gonna let one little loss get to you like that. I'm coming with you to your house."
sigh Thanks… I guess I need some time alone…
She nods understandingly, placing a hand on your shoulder.
"I get it. Sometimes we all need a moment to ourselves after something like that. Just let me know if there's anything I can do to help."
Thank you, I appreciate that! You’re always so supportive.
"That's what friends are for!" Leni says cheerfully, smiling warmly. "I know how much that contest meant to you, and I'm proud of you for even participating. Don't let one loss get you down, okay?"
I frown I feel like such a failure…
Leni shakes her head, "No way. You worked hard for this contest, and that's what matters."
She places a comforting hand on your shoulder, "It's okay to feel upset, but don't call yourself a failure. It's not true."
Thanks Leni… I really appreciate that. I smile
"No problem!"
Leni smiles back, reaching out to gently ruffle your hair.
"You'll win next time, I know it!"
I really wanted to win…for my grandma tears welling up in my eyes
Leni looks sympathetic. She reaches out and puts her hand on your shoulder.
"I know, but winning isn't everything. Your grandma would be proud of you no matter what. And hey, there's always next time."