“And you love it,” Ethan replied with a grin.
During a break, Sophie noticed a few classmates peeking through the doorway, whispering and pointing. She felt her cheeks heat.“Do you think they noticed… us?”
Ethan chuckled, shaking his head.“Probably. But who cares? Let them wonder. We’ve got our own rhythm.”
Sophie smiled, feeling warmth spread through her chest. It wasn’t just music anymore — it was the stolen glances, the subtle touches, and the shared moments that were slowly weaving a connection far beyond their duet.
As she packed up her violin at the end of practice, Sophie realized she looked forward to every moment with Ethan, from music to snowball fights to quiet walks. Winter in Crestwood wasn’t just magical because of the snow or the music — it was because of him.
Chapter 14:
A Sweet Mishap
It was Thursday afternoon, and the school cafeteria buzzed with lunchtime chatter. Sophie carried her tray toward an empty table when she spotted Ethan waving from across the room.
“Over here!” he called, grinning.
Sophie hurried over, weaving between students. She didn’t notice the small puddle near the drinks station and slipped, nearly dropping her tray. Ethan lunged forward instinctively, catching her arm just in time.
“Careful!” he said, steadying her.
Sophie’s cheeks flushed crimson.“I’m fine… thanks.”
Ethan smiled, though a mischievous glint remained in his eyes.“You know, you could’ve made that more dramatic for effect.”
“Very funny,” Sophie muttered, though she couldn’t hide her laugh.
They sat down, trays clinking against the table. As they ate, they talked quietly, sharing small jokes and teasing each other. Occasionally, their hands brushed, sending small sparks of warmth through Sophie’s chest.
Just as Sophie was reaching for her drink, Ethan accidentally knocked his tray, sending a small spill of milk across the table. They both jumped, then froze, staring at the mess.
“Oh no!” Sophie exclaimed, grabbing napkins.
“I got it, I got it!” Ethan said, helping frantically.
By the time they were done cleaning, both were laughing so hard that nearby students peeked over curiously. Sophie noticed the same warm, teasing look in Ethan’s eyes she had grown to love — the one that made her heart skip a beat.
“You really know how to make lunch memorable,” she said, shaking her head.
Ethan grinned.“Just trying to keep things interesting.”
Sophie laughed again, feeling a rush of affection. It was in moments like this — awkward, messy, and unplanned — that she realized how much she enjoyed being with him. The music, the snow, the shared glances, and even small mishaps had all led to this: a feeling that was growing too fast, too strong to ignore.
And as they walked back to class, shoulders brushing once more, Sophie understood that winter in Crestwood wasn’t just about the season. It was about Ethan Clarke, and the way he had become impossible to forget.
Chapter 15:
A Note Between Hearts
It was a quiet Friday afternoon, and the music room smelled faintly of varnish and warm sunlight filtering through frosted windows. Sophie unpacked her violin, glancing at Ethan, who was setting up his drum kit with a careful focus she had never seen before.
“Ready to nail this?” he asked, smiling.
“Always,” Sophie replied, though her heart was already racing.
They started their duet, letting the music guide them. The melodies intertwined effortlessly, and Sophie noticed Ethan watching her more than usual — not just for rhythm, but as if he were memorizing every detail of her expression.
As they moved into the slower section, Sophie hesitated at a tricky note. Ethan leaned closer, his hand brushing hers ever so slightly as he pointed to the sheet music.
