SOPHIE THE HEIRESS

THE SPARK ⚡️

THE SPARK

The morning sun poured into the retreat house, its golden rays casting a warm glow over the sleeping students. The birds outside chirped cheerfully, heralding the start of a new day. Some students had risen early, their excitement for the day's activities making sleep elusive, while others were still snug in their beds, barely aware of the impending schedule.

In the ladies' retreat house, the scene was one of hurried chaos. The early risers had gathered in the common area, chatting and preparing for the day ahead. Sophie, however, was nowhere to be seen. Her friends, already dressed and ready, glanced at the clock and exchanged worried glances.

Sophie, wake up!" Anna called out, shaking her gently. "You're going to be late!"

Sophie groaned, slowly emerging from her sleep. With a sudden rush of realization, she grabbed her phone from the bedside table and glanced at the time. "6:50 a.m.! Oh no!" she exclaimed, leaping out of bed.

Come on, Sophie! We need to hurry!" Camille urged, already halfway dressed.

Sophie stumbled into the washroom, frantically splashing water on her face and brushing her teeth. Her friends hurriedly gathered her things and helped her dress, the urgency in their voices blending with the clamor of the other students getting ready.

Meanwhile, Avery had been up early, ready and waiting for the day's activities. He stood outside, looking around for Sophie. As the clock struck 7:00 a.m., he began to get concerned. The buses were starting to load, and there was no sign of Sophie.

Avery approached one of his friends from the other university. "Hey, have you seen Sophie? I haven't seen her this morning."

"Oh, she just woke up," the friend replied, looking at his watch. "She should be here soon."

Avery's concern deepened. Deciding to check on her himself, he quickly made his way to the ladies' retreat house. The door was slightly ajar, and he heard the sound of hurried activity inside.

As he stepped into the common area, he saw Sophie's herself looked both frazzled and determined.

Sophie!" Avery called out, catching her attention. "Are you alright? I was worried you wouldn't make it."We nee to hurry

Sophie looked up, her face a mix of embarrassment and relief. "I overslept! I'm so sorry. I'll be ready in just a minute."

Avery nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it. Just hurry, the buses are almost ready to leave."

In the flurry of activity outside the retreat house, Sophie's friends were already sprinting toward the bus, urging her to hurry. Sophie, her heart racing, grabbed her bag and dashed out of the house.

Avery's eyes met hers. Seeing the urgency in her expression, he quickly closed the gap between them. Without a moment's hesitation, he reached out, taking Sophie's hand in his.

"Come on, we need to run!" Avery urged, his grip firm and reassuring.

Sophie, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude, squeezed his hand as they sprinted toward the bus. The bus driver, who had just begun to close the doors, glanced up at the rearview mirror and noticed the two running toward him. His eyes widened in recognition, and with a swift decision, he stopped the doors from closing, waiting for them to catch up.

Avery led the way, pulling Sophie along with him. They reached the bus door just in time, and Avery managed to get in first, holding the door open for Sophie. As she followed him up the steps, their hands remained clasped, a comforting connection amidst the chaos.

Thank you!" Avery called out to the driver, his voice filled with relief and gratitude. "We really appreciate it."

The bus driver nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "No problem. Just glad you made it."