𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐕𝐨𝐰𝐬

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐

ELENA

As I step off the plane, I feel really tired from the uncomfortable flight. Two of my older brothers, Christopher  and Andrew, and my cousin, Jeremiah, were playing video games the whole time, and it was so annoying. Even though the flight was short—just one hour and thirty-seven minutes—the noise was really bothersome. And now, I have to go to my parents' friends, Mr. and Mrs. Dalton's 20th anniversary party. I bet it's going to be super boring. But at least Atlas will be there. He's a funny friend, and being around him always makes me happy.

I wish I could just stay home, wear my comfy pajamas, eat marshmallows, and listen to Lana Del Rey while reading a good book. Reading is like going on an adventure for me. Each page is like a new world to explore. It helps me forget about everything else and just focus on the story.

Books are special to me. They smell nice, and I love the feel of the pages. Whether it's a brand-new book or an old one, there's something magical about them. They take me on journeys to places I've never been before and introduce me to characters I'll never forget.

But it's not just about the stories. Books also teach me things. They help me understand different perspectives and learn about the world around me. Sometimes, they even inspire me to try new things or be a better person.

In a world full of distractions, books are like a quiet sanctuary. They don't buzz or beep like phones and computers. Instead, they invite me to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of reading.

As I think about the party tonight, I know that even if it's not my favorite thing to do, I'll have my book waiting for me when I get home. And that's something to look forward to.

ZADE

I hastily grab the first outfit I lay eyes on in my wardrobe. Once dressed, I glance at myself in the mirror and notice that my blazer is alarmingly short. With a sigh, I decide to seek help from Atlas, making my way to his room in a hurry, clad only in a white, semi-transparent shirt and pants. As I navigate through the house, I encounter several familiar faces, the Sanchez family, whom I've known for years.

Spotting Joshua, I greet him with a half-hearted smile, and he responds by opening his arms for a hug. Feeling obligated, I reluctantly oblige, exchanging nods from the boys. However, when my eyes meet Elena's, I sense a tinge of tension, a lingering reminder of our encounter last winter. I can't help but wonder what she's thinking.

Suddenly, the sound of rapid footsteps echoes through the hallway, and within moments, Elena is enveloped in my brother's embrace as he sweeps her off her feet. I watch from the sidelines, unable to shake the pang of envy that grips me. How I wish I could be the one to evoke such radiant joy in her eyes. But alas, it's not me she looks at with such adoration.

Realizing I need to change my outfit and perhaps borrow a longer blazer, I excuse myself from the gathering. I remember my duty to attend to Joshua and the boys, ensuring they settle into their rooms comfortably. Elena, having frequented the house to visit Atlas, now has her own designated room, a testament to her close ties with my brother. Thankfully, she knows her way around the house well enough.

As I approach my brother's room, I hesitate, not wanting to intrude on his time with Elena. I contemplate waiting until they're finished before seeking his assistance, but the pressing need for a proper blazer urges me to reconsider. With a resigned sigh, I muster the courage to knock gently on the door, hoping not to disrupt their moment together.