Immediately, she turned toward Lewis's seat. No one else could have written the note except him.
But Marie was staring at her.
Young Aria jerked her head back, her thoughts scattering. It felt as though she wasn't even in the classroom anymore. Her mind was now torn between Lewis and Marie, both pulling at her in different directions.
Soon, the class ended, and it was time for music. All the chosen students stood and made their way toward the hall. As they stepped inside, Miss Sofia was already waiting.
"Welcome back, all of you," she said warmly.
"Good day, Miss Sofia," they echoed.
"So, I believe you all know what we're doing today?" she asked.
"Yes," they replied again.
"We're choosing the perfect song for the duet," she continued. "It has to match the taste of both singers. So, Aria and Lewis, tell us what song you want."
Young Aria stood frozen, lost in her thoughts. Only when she noticed everyone staring at her did she realize she was expected to answer. Even Lewis was watching her, waiting.
"I'm sorry… what?" she asked, completely lost.
"Tell us the song you'd like to duet with Lewis," Miss Sofia repeated.
"I don't—"
"Beyond Control by Evelora," Lewis said calmly, cutting her off.
Young Aria stared at him, stunned, as if she were seeing a ghost. He remained neutral, as though he hadn't said anything unusual, but everyone had heard him.
"Okay, I actually love that song," Miss Sofia said. "What do you say, Aria? Are you okay?"
"I'm good," she replied quickly.
"So?" Miss Sofia prompted.
"I think the song is perfect," young Aria said, forcing a small nervous smile.
"Great! Let's begin. Both of you sing the intro. Let's hear how you sound together."
Young Aria took a deep breath. Though it was her favorite song, she looked more nervous than ever. Closing her eyes, she began:
"You can treat her like she is small or she's nothing…"
And then she stopped.
Miss Sofia stepped forward. "Aria, why did you stop?"
"I don't know," she answered quietly.
"Well, don't. From the top. Lewis joins on the second line."
They began again, their voices blending almost perfectly. But just as they hit a high note together, something surged through her — sharp, electric, overwhelming.
Both I and young Aria screamed.
"Ahh—!"
Without another word, she dropped into a chair, eyes still closed, breathing unevenly.
"Aria! Aria! What's wrong?" Miss Sofia asked anxiously.
Lewis stared at her, worried and confused.
"Nothing… I'm just hungry, I guess," young Aria lied.
"Alright. You and Lewis may go rest. I'll continue with the pianists."
Young Aria immediately stood, her hand pressed against her chest as she hurried out. Her breathing was still unsteady when she reached the classroom. She opened her bag and reread the note again and again.
Then she made her decision.
She walked to the back where Marie sat quietly.
"Have you seen this?" young Aria asked, handing her the note.
"What is it?" Marie asked.
"Lewis will be at the library. This could be your chance to become friends with him."
Marie read it slowly, confusion on her face.
"But… aren't you the one he wants to see?"
"He saw me at music training and didn't say anything," young Aria replied softly. "So maybe it isn't that important. But your feelings are."
"What if—"
"No what-ifs," young Aria cut in gently. "Just talk to him. A simple hi is enough because from there he will start seeing you."
And before Marie could say anything else, young Aria dragged her and they left the classroom.