Introduction
Summer had finally arrived, and for Valena, it meant freedom from the grind of college classes and assignments. As she anticipated weeks of relaxation and fun, an unexpected turn of events thrust her into a situation she never saw coming. Staying at the house of her greatest rival, Rhys Dovon, was not on her agenda. But sometimes, the most complicated situations can lead to surprising revelations, and this summer would prove to be anything but ordinary.
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Valena lay sprawled across her bed, her excitement palpable as she scrolled through movie titles, searching for the perfect film to kick off her summer break. The freedom she had long awaited was finally here. Just as she settled on a choice, her parents burst into her room, urgency written all over their faces.
“Valena, we need to talk,” her mother said, glancing nervously at her watch.
“What’s going on?” Valena asked, sitting up, her heart sinking at the sight of her parents' serious expressions.
“Wait, what? My holidays just began!” she exclaimed, panic rising in her voice.
“I know, but there’s an emergency. We’re leaving for our hometown,” her mother replied.
“Can I stay home alone?” Valena pleaded, hoping for some independence.
“No way,” her father said firmly. “You’ll be staying at my friend’s house until we return.”
Valena sighed, knowing it was better than heading to her hometown. At least I won’t be stuck there. “Fine. But whose place?”
“Mr. Dovon’s,” her mother stated, making Valena’s stomach drop.
Her eyes widened. She didn’t mind the Dovon family, but their son, Rhys, was her greatest rival—and that was her biggest problem. “You’re kidding, right?”
“Just pack your stuff. We’ll drop you off,” her mother insisted, sensing her hesitation.
“Okay, fine,” Valena muttered, her mind racing with anxiety and annoyance.
An hour later, Valena found herself standing in front of the grand Dovon residence. As she stepped inside, she was greeted by the sight of elaborate decorations and the sounds of laughter and music. It looked like a party was in full swing.
“Welcome!” a small voice chirped. Valena looked down to see Eva, Rhys’s eight-year-old sister, bouncing with excitement. “What’s your name?”
“Uh, Valena,” she mumbled, still trying to process the overwhelming atmosphere.
“Valena! You’re here!” Rhys’s mother approached with a warm smile, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Valena. “Let me take your backpack inside.”
“Is something happening today?” Valena asked, eyeing the festive decorations with curiosity.
“Yes! You didn’t know? Rhys’s birthday is today!” his mother announced with enthusiasm.
Why are they celebrating that brat’s birthday so grand? He’s just so dumb, Valena thought to herself, suppressing a groan. “I see,” she replied flatly.
“I’ll catch you later, Valena. Enjoy the party!” Rhys’s mother said, leaving Valena to navigate the crowded room.
Valena found a couch and settled in, trying to blend into the background. Just then, she felt a tiny hand on her shoulder. It was Eva again.
“Why are you sitting here alone? Don’t you want to wish my brother?” Eva asked, her big eyes filled with innocence.
Valena smiled awkwardly, caught off guard. “Yeah, I guess I should.”
