The Kiss that Sparked it All

Victoria swiftly intercepted her dad, “If Mara doesn’t feel like eating, let’s just drop it. When she gets hungry, I’ll whip up a sandwich or something for her.

She’s under a ton of pressure with her studies right now. She might not have much of an appetite.” Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

Seeing her sister stepping in, Mara knew she was off the hook. She left the dining table and headed straight to her room with Elton’s grumbles trailing behind her.

“Why aren’t you stressed out the same way? How come you could devour every meal I prepare without a fuss while she’s so picky?”

“Come on, Dad, no more nagging, okay? You take such good care of us. You should be the one eating more.”

“If only Mara were as thoughtful as you, I wouldn’t have to work so hard.”

The book lay open on the table, but Mara couldn’t focus on the words. Her mind was buzzing with thoughts of Balfour.

Balfour, how can I see you again? Will you even remember me?

The next day was the weekend, and Victoria didn’t have any plans until she suddenly changed into a fresh outfit and announced she had to go to school for an unexpected rehearsal.

“Mara, you’ll have to heat up your own lunch today. There’s been a hiccup with the rehearsal at school, so they’ve called us in to run through it again. Otherwise, we might hit a snag on the day of the competition.”

Victoria was in a hurry, and Mara sensed an opportunity. She also put down her pen.

“Victoria, I’ve never been to your school. I want to come along and check it out. It’ll inspire me and give me motivation to study harder.”

“But I’ll be busy with rehearsals all day. Are you sure you’ll be okay on your own?” Victoria was concerned. Her school campus was large and the idea of leaving her sister to wander alone made her worry.

“I’ll be within the school grounds. I won’t stray. What could happen? I’m grown up. It’s not like I’ll run into trouble inside the school, right? Just relax, I really want to see what a top school looks like!”

With Mara insisting, Victoria agreed. “Alright, then. Go change, and we’ll head out immediately.”

Upon arriving at school, Mara didn’t show the excitement she had claimed, instead clinging to Victoria’s coattails.

Victoria had thought Mara would enjoy exploring the school, but her sister suddenly became timid and stuck close to her, gripping her clothes and refusing to leave.

“Victoria, let me follow you to the auditorium. There are so many strangers here, and I’m a bit scared.”

Victoria was in a tight spot. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to take Mara with her. It was just that the rehearsal involved many teachers, and it felt awkward to bring a family member along.

“Victoria, I’ve never asked you for anything else, but please don’t leave me alone here. I’m scared.”

After much difficulty, Victoria decided that Mara should wait at the auditorium doors. She would ask her teachers if it was okay for Mara to come backstage.

“Just wait here for a while and don’t wander off, I’ll be back in a bit!”

Mara nodded repeatedly, “Go ahead, I’ll wait right here; I won’t go anywhere.”

Mara knew that if Victoria was heading to rehearsal, Balfour would surely be there as well.