The sun streamed through the classroom windows, casting a golden glow over the small desks. Lisa sat with a bright smile on her face, gently brushing the hair of a sleepy child who'd fallen asleep during storytelling time.
The laughter of children always lifted her spirit. But today, her heart was heavy.
Because she had seen the travel itinerary.
It was left on the kitchen counter—Alex and Mia's names, their destination: Maldives.
So they're going... just the two of them.
Her chest tightened.
Zia, who had dropped by to volunteer for the school's holiday event, noticed the dimness in Lisa's eyes.
Later, in the staffroom, Zia crossed her arms and said firmly, "You can't keep doing this to yourself, Lis."
Lisa blinked. "Doing what?"
"Holding all your feelings in. Staying behind while they go off together like you're invisible."
Lisa lowered her gaze. "But they're engaged."
Zia sighed. "So? They're not married yet. And you... you've loved him for years in silence. Don't you deserve to breathe too?"
Lisa didn't respond.
Then, Zia's eyes lit up. "Hey. It's the school holidays. Let's go too."
Lisastared. "What?"
"To the Maldives. With me. A girls' trip. Spa, beaches, fresh air—new memories."
Lisa hesitated, but her lips slowly curved into a smile. "That actually... sounds nice."
Just then, Eli, who had come to pick Zia up, walked into the room and heard the tail end of the conversation.
"You're planning a trip to Maldives?" he asked, raising a brow.
Zia grinned. "Yes. Lisa and I. School's out, and it's time for healing."
Without missing a beat, Eli nodded. "I'm coming too."
Lisa looked at him, wide-eyed. "You are?"
"I've just filed for eight days off. And besides," he added, smiling gently at Lisa, "I think this trip might be more important than we realize."
⸻
Scene Break: Ocean Villa – That Night
The waves whispered beyond the open balcony. Mia stood by the edge, letting the sea breeze brush against her cheeks.
Alex leaned against the doorframe, his shirt sleeves rolled, glass of water in his hand.
Mia turned to him slowly, eyes serious.
"Can I ask you something?"
Alex nodded.
"Do you... hate Lisa?"
He frowned. "What?"
"You've always been so cold to her. So distant. Your parents adore her, she works so hard to make everyone happy... but you keep pushing her away. She's kind, Alex. Don't you see that?"
Alex's jaw clenched. "She's too kind."
"What do you mean?"
"She makes me feel things I shouldn't."
Mia's eyes softened, realizing what he meant—but she still pressed, "That's not her fault. She never asked to be adopted. And she's never once tried to take anything from you... not your parents, not your place in the family. She only ever gave."
Alex turned away.
Mia's voice grew quieter. "You don't have to love her, but you owe her kindness. She deserves that much."
Alex looked out toward the horizon. The waves couldn't drown out the echo of Mia's words.
And for the first time in a long time, he didn't know what to say.