Sole walks over to me, spreading her arms for a warm hug. I wasn't expecting it, but the warmth of the gesture makes me smile.
She pulls back gently and, resting her forehead against mine, says:
"We haven't seen each other in a while… I missed you so much!"
I gently take her hands, so small compared to mine. I press my nose against hers, rubbing it lightly, and softly say:
"I missed you too."
She smiles and moves to sit beside me. She carefully arranges her school supplies, and I can't help but notice how beautiful she is. Sole has been a hip-hop dancer since elementary school, and over time, this passion has become an integral part of her life.
She sits next to me and starts talking.
"So, how was this period for you?"
"At first, I was bored. But then I managed to get through my days. And you?"
"As I wrote in my messages, I had a lot of fun in London. Choosing a place different from the beach was the best decision," she recounts, her happiness growing: "My mom and I are thinking of doing something similar next year, but we'll see what happens."
Her voice is full of enthusiasm, and as she speaks, her joy manages to reach me too.
We continue chatting, laughing as I tell her about my silly summer antics. As always, Sole shakes her head, pretending to scold me, but I know she's enjoying it.
I settle into my chair, waiting for the lesson to start, but my thoughts drift back to Lucas. I wonder if he's still talking with his friends… Why didn't he come over to me, even though he just saw me?
It's a thought that makes me sad.
Ispin the pen between my fingers to shake off the tension when I feel a light touch on my cheek.
I startle for a moment before realizing it's Sole calling me.
She looks at me with curiosity and a hint of concern:
"You look strange, Andrea. Did something happen? Did you fight with Lucas?"
The moment I hear Lucas's name, I tense up.
"I didn't fight with Lucas. My mom insisted I get up this morning, and the fact that she forgets it annoys me a bit," I sigh, hoping Sole didn't notice. The day started off badly, but that doesn't mean I should take it out on Sole. She's always so sweet with me…
I turn to clarify with Sole, but unintentionally, my gaze falls on him.
Damn.
He's staring at me with an intensity that makes my heart race, and once again, I can't control it.