Sophie’s chest warmed at his words.“Team,” she repeated softly, a small smile tugging at her lips.
They began again, slower at first, then building momentum. Each note and beat synced beautifully, stronger than ever before. The earlier tension melted away, replaced with laughter and a renewed sense of connection.
By the end of practice, Sophie realized that challenges, whether jealousy or distractions, didn’t weaken their bond — they made it stronger. And she understood, with a fluttering heart, that winter in Crestwood wasn’t just about the showcase anymore. It was about learning to trust, to compromise, and to open her heart — in music, and maybe in love.
Chapter 12:
Walking in the Snow
The first snowstorm of December coated Crestwood in thick white, turning streets and rooftops into a winter wonderland. Sophie hurried out of the music room after practice, violin case slung over her shoulder, and was surprised to see Ethan waiting outside.
“You okay walking in this?” he asked, his voice gentle.“It’s a mess out here.”
Sophie smiled.“I can manage. You?”
He shrugged, hands tucked into his hoodie pockets.“I’m good. But I thought I’d walk you home… company makes the cold better.”
Sophie felt her chest flutter.“Thanks.”
They walked side by side, snow crunching beneath their boots, and for a while, neither spoke. The silence was comfortable, filled only with the rhythm of their steps and the soft whisper of falling snow.
At one point, a gust of wind blew Sophie’s scarf loose, and Ethan instinctively reached out to fix it, his fingers brushing her neck. Sophie’s heart raced, and she caught her breath, unsure how to respond.
“Better?” he asked, a small, teasing smile on his lips.
Sophie nodded, trying to hide her blush.“Much better.”
They continued walking, closer now, shoulders occasionally brushing. Sophie felt a warmth spread through her, different from the cold air outside. Something unspoken was growing between them, delicate but undeniable.
As they reached the corner near her apartment, Ethan paused.“Sophie… I… I really like spending time with you,” he admitted quietly, his eyes searching hers.
Sophie’s heart skipped a beat.“I like spending time with you too,” she whispered, unable to look away.
Ethan smiled, the snowflakes caught in his hair, and for a brief moment, the world felt perfectly still. Then, almost imperceptibly, their hands brushed as they said goodnight. Neither pulled away.
Sophie walked inside her apartment building, cheeks warm and heart racing, knowing that something had shifted. The winter showcase was still ahead, but something else — something much more personal — was already beginning to blossom between her and Ethan Clarke.
Chapter 13:
Notes in the Hallway
Monday morning at Crestwood High, the hallways were crowded with students shuffling between classes. Sophie walked with her violin case slung over her shoulder, and to her surprise, Ethan fell into step beside her.
“Morning,” he said, grinning.“Late night snowball fight practice?”
Sophie laughed softly.“You mean walking home in the snow?”
They threaded through the crowded hallway, shoulders brushing occasionally. Students passing by couldn’t help but notice the subtle connection — shared glances, small smiles, and the easy comfort of two people who clearly enjoyed each other’s company.
As they reached the music wing, Lucas waved at Ethan.“Hey, man! You ready for band practice?”
Ethan waved back, his attention never leaving Sophie.“Yeah, give me a sec.”
Sophie caught herself smiling, realizing she liked how he prioritized her presence, even for a brief moment.
Inside the music room, they began practicing again, laughter and teasing bouncing between them as their duet became more fluid. At one point, Sophie deliberately played a playful trill, and Ethan responded with a quick, rhythmic drum flourish. Theirtiming matched perfectly — a perfect blend of precision and spontaneity.
“You’re impossible,” Sophie said, laughing.
