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.
Their timing matched perfectly — a perfect blend of precision and spontaneity.
“You’re impossible,” Sophie said, laughing.
“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.