In the dimly lit living room, Tassa sat quietly beside Ayamani. They waited for Nia'le and Céline to return, listening for the sound of approaching footsteps. Anticipation filled the room, but beneath it lingered a tension that neither of them spoke about.
The front door suddenly swung open.
"First!" Céline shouted as she rushed inside.
Nia'le entered right behind her and rolled his eyes.
"We are not racing, Céline. Believe me, Tassa, I can easily beat a child in a foolish race."
A burst of laughter filled the room.
Tassa smiled, but it was a bitter smile. Hidden beneath it were emotions that didn't match the cheerful atmosphere.
Without hesitation, Céline wrapped her arms around Tassa and greeted her warmly. Tassa returned the embrace, but she remained unusually quiet.
Nia'le imme
