'~'~'N€VER_KNOWN'~'~'

~6~ «Threads of Hope and Heartache»

Danielle woke up feeling a heavy weight in her chest. The events of the previous days lingered in her mind like an unshakable shadow. She glanced at her phone, hoping for some distraction, but found nothing that could lift her spirits. As she got ready for the day, she moved mechanically, her thoughts preoccupied with the impending trip and her brother's approval.

When she reached the kitchen, Alden was already there, sipping his coffee and reading the news. He looked up and immediately noticed her downcast expression which made me worry a little although he knew the reason behind it.

"Good morning, Dani," he greeted, trying to sound cheerful attempting to enlighten her downfallen mood

"Morning, Alden," she replied, her voice lacking enthusiasm.

Alden put down his cup and observed her for a moment. He had been thinking a lot about their conversation and his protective instincts, but seeing his sister so unhappy made him reconsider his stance.

"Danielle, about the trip to Manali," he began, watching her closely. "I've thought it over, and I think it might be good for you. So, you can go."

Danielle's face lit up instantly, a genuine smile breaking through the gloom. "Really? You mean it?" She said while hopping a little in her place like a small kid.

Alden chuckled seeing her instant smile and cuteness before saying "Yes, really," he confirmed with a nod. "But be careful, and stay in touch."

She jumped up and hugged him tightly. "Thank you so much, Alden! You have no idea how much this means to me!"

This is it, Alden was in relief that now his little sister who is like a daughter to be is no more sad.

As she left the house, her spirits were high, a stark contrast to the previous days. The news of the trip approval spread quickly among her friends, and the collective excitement grew. The happiness in Danielle's eyes was contagious, and even Kavin couldn't help but feel a spark of joy seeing her so elated.

_ ____ ___

The university campus was alive with the buzz of students preparing for the upcoming trip and the excitement of the day. Danielle's friends were thrilled to see her in such high spirits. They gathered around her, sharing in her joy.

"I can't believe Alden agreed!" Mia exclaimed. "This is going to be the best trip ever!"

"I know! I was so worried he wouldn't," Danielle replied, her smile beaming.

Kavin watched from a distance, his heart swelling with a mixture of happiness and relief. Seeing Danielle happy lifted a burden from his shoulders, even though the underlying tension between them remained unresolved. He wanted to approach her, to apologize and make things right, but the presence of Ethan kept him at bay.

During lunch, Danielle and Ethan sat together, discussing the answers to the biology test. Their conversation was light and animated, filled with laughter and camaraderie. Kavin, sitting a few tables away, tried to focus on his own meal but found it difficult to ignore them. He couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness and jealousy at their growing closeness.

As the day ended and students began to leave, Kavin mustered the courage to approach Danielle. He caught up with her just as she was about to head home.

"Danielle, can we talk for a minute?" he asked, his voice tentative.

She looked at him, her expression guarded but curious. "Sure, Kavin. What's up?"