CRACKS IN THE FOUNDATION

The following days were tense and filled with awkward silences between Ari and Mia. Ari tried to bridge the gap, but Mia remained distant, often shutting herself in her room or leaving early for the studio. Leo noticed the strain between the sisters but didn’t push Ari for details, respecting her need for space.

One afternoon, Ari decided to confront Leo about what she had overheard. They were at a café near the studio, sipping on iced coffees, the sun casting a warm glow over their table.

“Leo, can we talk about something serious?” Ari asked, her voice hesitant.

Leo set his cup down, his expression turning serious. “Of course, Ari. What’s on your mind?”

Ari took a deep breath, steadying herself. “It’s about Mia. I overheard her talking to you at the studio. She's... she's in love with you, isn’t she?”

Leo’s eyes widened, then softened with understanding. “Yeah, she is. I didn’t know how to tell you.”

Ari felt a pang of guilt. “Why didn’t you tell me? It’s affecting everything between us.”

Leo reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “I didn’t want to hurt you or make things awkward. Mia’s feelings are complicated, and I didn’t want to make things worse.”

Ari squeezed his hand, appreciating his honesty. “I get it, but it’s hurting us. Mia thinks I’m taking you away from her, and it’s causing a lot of tension.”

Leo sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I wish things were simpler. I care about you both, but in different ways. Mia and I... we’re not meant to be, and I’ve told her that. But it’s hard for her to accept.”

Ari nodded, understanding the complexity of the situation. “I need to talk to her again, but I don’t know what to say. She’s so angry and hurt.”

Leo gave her a reassuring smile. “Just be honest with her, Ari. Tell her how you feel and listen to her. It’s the only way you can start to heal the rift between you two.”

Ari took his advice to heart. That evening, she found Mia in the living room, scrolling through her phone. Summoning her courage, Ari sat down beside her sister.

“Mia, we need to talk,” Ari said gently.

Mia glanced up, her expression wary. “About what?”

“About Leo and us,” Ari replied, her voice steady. “I know you’re in love with him, and I know it’s been hard for you to see us together.”

Mia’s eyes filled with tears, and she looked away. “It’s not fair, Ari. I loved him first. Why does he like you and not me?”

Ari’s heart ached for her sister. “Mia, it’s not about who came first or who loves him more. Leo and I... we just have a different connection. It doesn’t mean he cares about you any less.”

Mia’s tears spilled over, and she wiped them away angrily. “I feel so stupid, Ari. I tried so hard to get his attention, but nothing worked. And then you come along, and he’s all over you.”

Ari reached out, taking her sister’s hand. “Mia, you’re amazing, and you deserve someone who sees that. Someone who loves you for who you are. Leo... he’s not that person, but it doesn’t mean you’re not worth loving.”

Mia looked at her sister, her anger slowly dissipating. “I don’t want to lose you, Ari. But it’s so hard to watch you with him.”

Ari hugged Mia, holding her close. “We’ll get through this, Mia. We’ll find a way to make it work. You’re my sister, and I love you. Nothing will change that.”

Mia hugged her back, clinging to her sister as if she were a lifeline. “I’m sorry, Ari. I’ve been so unfair to you.”

“It’s okay,” Ari whispered. “We’ll figure it out together.”

Over the next few days, the tension between the sisters began to ease. They started spending more time together, talking openly about their feelings and trying to mend their fractured relationship. Leo gave them space, understanding the importance of their bond.

One evening, as they sat together in the living room, Mia turned to Ari. “I’ve decided to focus more on my dancing. It helps clear my mind, and I think it’ll help me move on.”

Ari smiled, proud of her sister. “That sounds like a great idea. You’re an amazing dancer, Mia. Don’t let anything hold you back.”

Mia nodded, feeling a sense of determination. “Thanks, Ari. And... I’ll try to be more supportive of you and Leo. It’s going to take time, but I’ll get there.”

Ari hugged her sister, feeling hopeful for the first time in weeks. “We’ll get there together.”

As the days passed, the sisters continued to heal, their bond growing stronger. Leo remained a supportive presence, respecting their space and giving them the time they needed. The studio became a place of healing and growth, where they could rebuild their trust and move forward.

Ari knew there would still be challenges ahead, but with Mia by her side, she felt ready to face them. Together, they would navigate the complexities of love and family, finding a way to build a future that honored their past and embraced the possibilities of tomorrow.