LILY AND ALEX I

As Lily returned, Alex trailing closely behind, I couldn't help but notice the flushed look on both their faces. Lily seemed a bit flustered, and Alex appeared somewhat downcast. What had they spoken about?

Before I could inquire, Rex entered the classroom, accompanied by the teacher which diverted my attention. I decided to postpone my questions for later.

Throughout the class, I observed Lily spacing out, her attention clearly elsewhere. At one point, Alex passed her a handwritten note, which seemed to agitate her upon reading. Something was definitely going on, and I couldn't wait to question her about it once the class was over.

Unfortunately, that chance never came as the classes were closely scheduled back-to-back until gymnastics, when I finally had the opportunity to approach Lily. Despite my concerns, she reassured me that nothing was amiss, so I chose to observe and watch how things unfold.