Unspoken

A Friendly Invitation

As the final bell rang, the school grounds filled with students heading home, some racing to beat each other out of the gates, while others strolled in groups, laughing and chatting. Selena and Olivia walked side by side, weaving through the crowd. Olivia's face lit up as she turned to Selena. "You know, I really want to get onto the cheerleading team this year. I've been trying since last year, but this time, I think I actually have a shot."

"Oh, really?" Selena smiled, intrigued.

"Yeah! I go to ballet classes, so I've been practicing and working on my jumps. I think that'll help," Olivia said with a hopeful grin. "So, what about you? What do you like to do?"

Selena shrugged, a little shyly. "I love painting... and chess. I used to play a lot back in Madrid."

"Chess? That's awesome!" Olivia's eyes sparkled. "My dad loves chess, too! He'd probably think you're amazing. You should come over on Sunday! We can hang out, do homework, and maybe you can show me some of your chess moves."

Selena smiled, feeling a warmth in Olivia's invitation. "I'll ask my mom and let you know. That sounds fun!"

As they reached the school gate, they waved goodbye and headed their separate ways—Selena grabbing her bicycle from the rack, while Olivia hopped into her family's car, waving through the window as they drove off.

As Selena pedaled home, a thought crossed her mind—she didn't have Olivia's phone number or address. I'll just ask her tomorrow, she decided, feeling a small excitement build at the thought of visiting her new friend's house. The sense of friendship felt comforting and fresh, something she hadn't felt in a long time.

After a few more minutes of riding, she reached her street and saw her family waiting outside. Her little brother, Kevin, spotted her first and ran over, waving excitedly. "Selena! You're back!"

Her mother smiled warmly, watching as Selena parked her bike. "How was school today, mi amor?" she asked, brushing a strand of hair out of Selena's face.

"Good," Selena replied, feeling the day's events whirling in her mind. She had so much to tell, but for now, she just enjoyed the familiar warmth of being home.

Selena walked up to her mother, who was holding a bag full of fresh vegetables for dinner. As they headed inside, she asked, "Mom, do you think Dad will be home early tonight?"

Her mother sighed softly, giving her an understanding look. "He's been very busy at work, cariño. He won't be home until late again today, but he'll be free on Sunday."

Selena's shoulders drooped a little, disappointment tugging at her. But then, a spark of excitement returned as she remembered her conversation with Olivia. "Mom, I made a new friend today—her name is Olivia! She's invited me to her house on Sunday. Can I go?"

Her mother's eyes softened as she saw Selena's hopeful smile. "Of course, Selena. It sounds like you're already becoming close friends. I'd be happy for you to go."

Selena's face lit up, and she felt her sadness melt away, replaced by a warm happiness.

It was already past 5:30 p.m. as Selena's mom began preparing dinner in the kitchen. Selena and Kevin stood by the door, hopeful looks on their faces.

"Mom, can we go to the garden for a little while?" Kevin asked, practically bouncing with excitement.

Their mom glanced at the clock and smiled. "Alright, but don't be out too long! Dinner will be ready soon."

The siblings headed out, and as soon as they reached the garden, Kevin spotted the lone empty swing and dashed toward it. "Last one there is a slowpoke!" he called, laughing as he jumped onto the swing, pumping his legs to gain height.