chapter 23

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The school hallway, usually buzzing with energy, felt strangely quiet as Olivia spotted her sister, Alena, deep in conversation with Javier. A wave of protective instinct washed over her. Alena, with her independent streak and sometimes questionable choices, seemed completely smitten. Javier, charming and effortlessly charismatic, appeared to be enjoying the attention.

Olivia felt a surge of protective big-sister feelings. She approached cautiously, her expression a mix of concern and playful annoyance.  "Oh, ikaw ha!  You're flirting, huh?", she teased, her voice playful but her eyes serious.

Alena, startled, let out a playful shriek.  "Ate!  Seriously! You're overreacting!", she retorted, cheeks flushed with embarrassment and amusement.

Javier, smooth as ever, offered a charming smile. "It's not what it looks like, Ms. Reyes. We were just discussing the school festival," he smoothly explained, attempting damage control.

Olivia, however, wasn't easily fooled. She raised an eyebrow skeptically.  "Oh really? You're good at making excuses!", she teased, playful but firm.  She knew her sister too well.

Alena, sensing her sister's concern, decided to confess.  "Okay, fine! I like Javier," she admitted, her voice a whisper.  The confession, though unexpected, wasn't entirely surprising.

Olivia, despite initial apprehension, softened.  She knew interfering wouldn't help.  Instead, she offered a mix of advice and playful teasing.  "Just be careful, okay?", she said, her voice laced with genuine concern.  "Don't let handsome guys fool you!", she added with a playful nudge.

Alena, relieved by her sister's understanding, giggled.  "Of course!", she replied, her smile genuine.

The encounter, initially tense, ended with shared laughter and renewed sisterly understanding. Olivia realized Alena could make her own choices.  The moment highlighted the unique sister bond—playful teasing, unwavering support, and genuine care. It also showed the complex dynamics within their friend group, where romance intertwined with deep friendships, creating a rich mix of emotions. The school festival, once a distant event, now held new significance—a stage for budding romances and the unwavering support of close friends.

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