Hearts Rekindled: A Love Story Of Second Chances

• 09

15 years ago,
St. Mary's Convent School:

As the end of November approached, preparations for the Christmas celebration began at St. Mary Convent. Every student is welcome to participate in the celebration, with some taking an interest in participating and others allocated to decoration and prop work. Some others take advantage of the situation and skip classes. Because no teachers are concerned with the courses during this time because they are too busy directing the children who are taking part in the activity.

Some were rehearsing a skit to celebrate Jesus' birth, while others were singing Kannada and English songs about His life and achievements. The nursery and students in primary school were happily practicing their dance routine to "Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells." Meanwhile, other students were creating accessories such as stars, snowmen, and snowflakes.

Sister Catherine, the convent's head, strolled through the corridors dressed in her usual garb, escorted by two sisters. They watched the children with pride, observing their excitement and determination. The school, with its spacious grounds and majestic three-story building, was filled with joyful mood.

Sister Catherine was walking through the corridors with a warm grin on her face as she heard a faint but sweet voice. She followed the sound, and as she approached, the lovely voice became louder, until she was in front of the closed door.

When Sister Catherine noticed the classroom window was open, she stood and looked inside to hear that wonderful voice. There were three boys and four to five girls practicing Kannada songs. Again, her gaze rested on the girl who was singing alone. Others glanced at her as if she were teaching them the song's chorus.

All three sisters stood there and gave their whole attention to the music. They all smiled warmly after hearing the wonderful voice.

"Such a beautiful song," Sister Catherine said, looking as the children preparing for practice.

"They are higher-class students," Sister 1 stated.

"Oh." Sister Catherine made a nod.

"They are really nice children," Sister 2 said, "Good in academics and extracurricular activities," which made Sister Catherine's chest puff with pride.

As rehearsals began, the instruments were in fine working order. Sister Catherine said, "Which class are these talented kids from?"

"The one who is playing keyboard is Keshav M from 9th C." Sister 2 responded, pointing at the boy, who was thin enough to tumble through the air.

"Vinodh R is holding the electric guitar, while Gautham V is playing it next to him," Sister 1 said, "Both are in tenth grade."

"And those girls are from 8th A and C." Sister 2 responded by saying, "Leaving those two girls," pointing to the girl who had just sung and the girl next her.

"They are from 9th C. The one who sang alone is Samanvi R, and it's her best friend, Shruthi G." Sister 2 took Samanvi's name with warmth but gritted her teeth when she took Shruthi's, which was noticed by the other two sisters.

Sister Catherine laughed and asked, "What did Miss Shruthi do to make our sister's mood like this?"

Sister 2 sighed and responded, "I am not complaining. She is a good student; she is intelligent; and she is the naughtiest girl I have ever seen."

"Haha.." Sister Catherine exited the window and began walking, with the other two sisters following her.

"Kids are supposed to do that. They meant to learn, play, and... fall in love," Sister Catherine stated as she went through the corridors, smiling.