The Secret Symphony of Love

Part - 8

Outside the Institute, Early Evening

After their music class, Alexander waits outside the  classroom, casually leaning against walls as Siya approaches. She looks a little weary, her eyes clouded with worry.

Alexander: "Hey, Siya! You look... down. Everything alright?"

Siya forces a small smile, but Alexander can see the sadness in her eyes.

Siya: (in low voice) "Ah, everything alright Alex. Thanks for asking"

Alexander’s heart tightens seeing her like this. Without thinking, he places a comforting hand on her shoulder.

Alexander: "Come on, let’s get some coffee. A little break might help."

Siya nods, grateful, and they head to a nearby cafe, walking in silence.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Inside the Cafe

They settle into a cozy corner of the cafe, the warm glow of the lights casting a comforting ambiance. Siya stirs her coffee absentmindedly, her gaze distant. Alexander watches her intently, feeling an urge to take away her pain.

Alexander: (softly) "Siya, I know it’s tough being away from your family. But you’re doing something incredible here, for them. They’d be so proud of you."

Siya’s lips curve into a faint smile, her eyes glistening as she looks at him.

Siya: "Thank you, Alex. Sometimes, I feel so guilty. But… hearing that helps."

Alex: " Tell me now, what happened? Is everything ok with you? You look so worried! "

Siya: "My mom called me yesterday,My father’s health is worsening, and my mom sounded so worried on the phone. I feel so far away from them when they need me the most."

Overwhelmed by the urge to comfort her, Alexander reaches out and gently pulls her into a soft hug. Siya tenses for a moment, then relaxes into his embrace, finding unexpected comfort in his warmth.

Alex : " Everything will be alright Sia, don't stress yourself"

Siya: (murmuring) "You’re a really good friend, Alex."

The simple words make Alexander’s heart skip a beat. He holds her a little tighter, realizing just how much he’s come to care for her.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Just as they pull back from the hug, a loud gunshot rings through the cafe, shattering the calm atmosphere. Chaos erupts as people scream and duck for cover. Alexander’s instincts kick in, and he grabs Siya, pulling her roughly into his arms, shielding her body with his own.

The bullet narrowly misses Siya, whizzing past them and embedding itself in the wall. Alexander’s face is tight with fear and rage as he scans the surroundings, trying to spot the source of the attack.

Alexander: (whispering urgently) "Siya, are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere?"

Siya, trembling from the shock, looks up at him, amazed by the intense worry in his eyes. She’s never seen him look this terrified.

Siya: "I-I’m fine… Alex, but… are you alright?"

Alexander nods, but his gaze doesn’t leave her for a second. He holds her face, checking for any injuries, his touch gentle yet protective. She’s stunned by his reaction, seeing a side of him she never expected.

Siya: (softly) "Thank you… for protecting me."

He lets out a shaky breath, still holding her close, realizing he was more scared for her than he was for himself.