Red String

Chapter 3 - Crossing Paths

Evan, leaning back in his chair, whispered, "She's persistent... and he's noticing her, a little."

Rose ignored him, focusing instead on getting the notes right. Each small acknowledgment from Clei felt like a victory.

After a short lecture, students spilled into the hallways again. Rose noticed Clei and Evan near the courts. Gathering courage, she jogged over.

"Hey," she called out. "Do you want to grab a snack?"

Clei slowed, giving her a brief, neutral glance. "I'm fine," he said simply.

Rose felt a small pang of disappointment but didn't let it show. "Okay... maybe later," she replied, smiling faintly.

Evan nudged Clei. "See? She's trying. Maybe try smiling at her?"

Clei shook his head subtly, internal frustration brewing. Why do I care at all? he thought. She's just... persistent.

Rose, oblivious to his internal debate, returned to her friends, her mind still buzzing. She had tried. That's all that mattered for now.

In English, Ms. Dizon assigned a creative writing task: describe someone who inspires you. Rose leaned over to Mica. "I'm going to write about someone... positive, energetic, and always helping others."

Mica smirked. "Does that include Clei?"

Rose laughed softly. "No! Not yet."

Clei, at the back, didn't hear her. But he noticed her laughter, the way her shoulders relaxed when she smiled. Something... stirred inside him, though he immediately dismissed it. Focus. Don't overthink.

The cafeteria buzzed with energy. Rose sat with her usual group, unpacking her lunch. Across the room, Clei and Evan claimed a quiet table. Evan tossed a napkin lightly, eyes flicking toward Rose. Clei's gaze lingered slightly longer than before.

Rose waved casually. His head tilted slightly. She smiled faintly, convinced that he had noticed her.

Evan rolled his eyes. "Don't get ahead of yourself," he muttered under his breath.

Rose ignored him, savoring the small victory. Even a fraction of attention felt monumental.

After school, Rose headed to the gym for badminton practice. Today, the coach paired students for doubles. To Rose's surprise, she was paired with Clei.

Her heart raced. This was it—the first real chance to interact, side by side.

"Hey... mind if I practice with you for a few minutes?" she asked nervously.

Clei paused mid-swing, eyes on her. "If you want," he said neutrally.

Rose grinned. "Great!"

As they played, she chatted lightly, "Your smashes are really strong. Any tips?"

Clei glanced at her form. "Watch the angle. Don't swing too early."

Rose nodded, adjusting her grip. She noticed him glancing at her shots occasionally, silently assessing. Her chest warmed. He's noticing me again.

Evan, on the sidelines, whispered, "He's actually paying attention... subtle, but progress."

The game ended with both of them sweaty but laughing. Rose felt triumphant. Clei offered a small nod. Not much, she thought, but enough to count.

Later, the group gathered at the library to finalize the presentation outline. Rose tried to format slides on her laptop but struggled. Frustrated, she muttered, "Why won't this cooperate?"

Clei, passing by, glanced at her screen. "Use this shortcut. Faster than doing it manually."

Rose blinked, startled. "Oh... thanks."

Clei didn't wait for a reply. He simply nodded once and continued.

Rose felt a subtle warmth. He helped... but still distant. That's classic Clei.

Kevin appeared nearby, holding a tray of snacks. "Still working with the mysterious Clei? Don't work too hard, Rose, you might fall for his calmness."

Rose rolled her eyes. "Kevin, stop teasing."

Clei, overhearing, frowned slightly. "Does it matter?" he asked calmly.

Rose's heart fluttered. He defended me... even subtly.

Walking home, Rose replayed the day. Group work, badminton practice, small guidance from Clei... each interaction, brief but meaningful.

At home, she strummed her guitar softly, reflecting. Small victories. That's what today was. He noticed me... just a little, but enough.

Meanwhile, Clei leaned back in his chair, sketchbook open. He rubbed the back of his neck, muttering quietly. She's persistent. Annoying. Weird... but okay. Don't think too much about it.