Chapter 37: The Days Before the Event

7 0 0
                                    


The days progressed as usual. Sylvia spent her time in school, increasingly occupied with preparations for the upcoming school event. Her spirits were higher than ever since Aleytia had started calling her sister, and their bond grew stronger each day.

Tia dedicated herself to her studies, though her thoughts often drifted to the approaching day when she planned to give Sylas the handkerchief. The anticipation both excited and unnerved her, making it difficult to concentrate fully on her lessons.

Sylas, meanwhile, noticed Aleytia's continued shyness and avoidance. Her behavior puzzled him, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he might have done something wrong. He often found himself glancing in her direction, trying to understand what was going on.

One afternoon, as Sylvia and Sylas were taking a break between classes, Sylas voiced his concerns to his sister. "Sylvia, have you noticed how Tia's been acting around me lately?"

Sylvia looked thoughtful. "Yes, I've seen it. She's been quite shy and avoiding you. It's strange, isn't it?"

Sylas nodded, a troubled expression on his face. "Do you think I did something to upset her?"

Sylvia shook her head. "I don't think so, Sylas. Tia isn't the type to hold a grudge. Maybe she's just... working through something on her own."

Sylas sighed. "I've tried to approach her and talk, but she always shies away. I'm worried. I want to help her, but I don't know how."

Sylvia placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Give her some time. She'll come to you when she's ready. Sometimes, people need a little space to sort out their feelings."

Sylas nodded, though the worry in his eyes remained. "I just hope whatever it is, she'll let me know soon."

Sylvia smiled softly. "She will. Trust her."

---

During one of their study sessions, Charlotte noticed Tia's frequent glances at the handkerchief she had made for Sylas. "Lady Aleytia, are you still thinking about when to give him the handkerchief?"

Tia nodded, her fingers tracing the embroidered edges. "Yes, Charlotte. I want it to be perfect."

Charlotte smiled warmly. "It will be, Lady Aleytia. Just trust yourself. The right moment will come."

Tia sighed, her mind a whirl of anticipation and nerves. "I hope so."

---

Sylas's concern for Aleytia grew with each passing day. During dinner one evening, he found himself watching her closely, trying to catch any sign of what might be troubling her. But Aleytia's interactions were as guarded as ever, leaving him in the dark.

"Father," Sylas said quietly as they finished their meal. "I'm worried about Tia. She's been acting strangely around me."

Sylvester looked thoughtful. "Perhaps she is simply adjusting to the changes. Give her time, Sylas. Sometimes, people need to find their own way to express their feelings."

Sylas nodded, though the uncertainty gnawed at him. "I hope you're right, Father."

As the days continued, Sylas kept a watchful eye on Aleytia, hoping for a breakthrough. The upcoming school event loomed closer, and with it, the tournament that Charlotte had suggested as the perfect opportunity for Aleytia to present her gift. All he could do was wait and hope that whatever was bothering her would soon be resolved.

---

With the school event just around the corner, everyone's excitement grew. Aleytia's nerves also heightened, but she found solace in the thought that soon she would be able to show her gratitude to Sylas. For now, she continued to prepare herself, ready to seize the moment when it arrived.

The Nocturnyx Covenant Where stories live. Discover now