Mabella and Aiden left the library together, strolling leisurely along the pathway. Aiden, with a mischievous grin, teased Mabella relentlessly until her cheeks flushed a deep shade of red. Amidst their playful banter, they failed to notice Marcus, who was on his way home from class. Spotting the pair, Marcus quickened his pace and approached them, his eyes rolling at Aiden's antics before he greeted Mabella.
"Hey, Mabel," Marcus said with a friendly smile.
"H-Hello," Mabella stammered, her hand firmly clasped in Aiden's.
"Say, Mabel, where's Adam? Is he absent today?" Marcus inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"Adam?" Mabella's brow furrowed as she looked at Marcus. "W-why are you looking for him?" She didn't recall Marcus and Adam being particularly close friends.
"Is there something you need from him? I-I can pass it along," she offered, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Marcus shook his head. "No, I was just wondering why he wasn't here."
Mabella nodded slowly. "H-He moved..."
"What?" Both Marcus and Aiden exclaimed simultaneously, their surprise evident.
"He moved? To where and why?" Marcus asked, his eagerness palpable.
"He moved somewhere... and that's a secret. I can't tell you; he wouldn't like it. But why do you want to know?" Mabella's tone was both inquisitive and cautious.
"Why shouldn't I know?" Marcus countered, his frustration showing.
"It's not like you guys are friends," Mabella replied, her words leaving Marcus in stunned silence. Her remark resonated deeply, compelling him to pause and reflect. She was right—he and Adam had never been true friends. Yet, despite their lack of camaraderie, there was an unsettling feeling gnawing at him, a sense of unease he couldn't quite understand. Despite their distant relationship, Adam's presence or actions still evoked a strong reaction in him.
Lost in thought, Marcus pondered the source of this discomfort. His reverie was interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Yo! What are you guys doing here?" Marcos called out, accompanied by his buddies Rohan, Gianna, Emma, and Sophia.
Marcos narrowed his eyes at Marcus before playfully smacking his twin's head. "How dare you leave me! I've been calling you non-stop, and you just walked away? How dare an impudent folk like you ignore this majesty?"
Marcus shot his twin an annoyed look. "Ugh, so dramatic."
"You're loud. That's why he ignored you. Right?" Sophia chimed in, looking at Marcus. They exchanged a high-five, their agreement clear.
"Wait, you guys are dating without us?" Emma exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise as she noticed the intertwined hands of Mabella and Aiden. Her voice carried a hint of incredulity, mingled with a touch of hurt. She stood there, feeling a little left out.
"What do you mean? Why should we invite you guys? Don't you know the meaning of a date? It's just for two people only," Aiden retorted with sarcasm.
Emma snorted while Mabella stood silently, listening to the exchange.
"Now, now. Let's go to a café. I heard a new one opened today," Marcos interjected, steering the conversation.
Marcos' words carried such weight that everyone silently agreed, their expressions reflecting a shared understanding. They continued walking together, their laughter and playful teasing creating a lively atmosphere. Each step echoed with camaraderie, a testament to the bond they shared and the unspoken connection Marcos had sparked.
--
Later, Mabella threw herself onto her bed, feeling utterly exhausted. Her social battery had run low after spending time with Aiden's very active and noisy friends. Just as she was about to settle down for some much-needed rest, her mother, Director Isabella, walked into her room with a stern expression.
"Today you came back later than usual. Why?" Director Isabella asked, her tone demanding an explanation.
"I'm hanging out with my friends," Mabella replied, trying to sound casual.
"You have other friends?" Her mother lifted an eyebrow in disbelief.
Mabella was silent for a moment, taken aback by her mother's incredulity. "I guess..."
"Well, whatever." Director Isabella dismissed the topic with a wave of her hand and tossed a designer gala invitation onto Mabella's bed.
"Victoria asked you to come," she added nonchalantly.
"Huh?" Mabella sat up, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten. She picked up the invitation, her eyes lighting up with excitement. Holding the Designer Gala invitation, she beamed with joy.
"Mom, this is for tonight!" Mabella exclaimed, her heart racing with excitement and a bit of panic.
"Yes, it's tonight. You'd better start getting ready," Director Isabella said, a hint of amusement in her voice.
As she looked at the elegant invitation, her mind began to race with thoughts of what to wear and how exciting the event would be. It was a rare opportunity for her to step into the glamorous world her mother was so accustomed to. Despite the exhaustion of the day, a new sense of anticipation filled Mabella, making her forget her tiredness.
Reflecting on the day's events, she realized how much her life had changed recently. From navigating new friendships to dealing with her mother's high expectations, Mabella felt like she was constantly balancing on a tightrope. Yet, amidst the challenges, there were moments of joy and connection that made it all worthwhile.

With renewed energy, Mabella sprang into action, rummaging through her wardrobe for the perfect dress. She settled on a stunning, elegant gown that she had been saving for a special occasion. As she dressed, her excitement grew. The gala was not just an event; it was a chance for her to shine and to experience a part of her mother's world.

As she put the finishing touches on her appearance, she couldn't help but smile. She was beginning to find her own path, even if it meant stepping out of her comfort zone. With the Designer Gala only hours away, she felt a surge of excitement and determination. Tonight would bring new challenges, but for now, she allowed herself to savor the moment and dream of the possibilities ahead.

Finally ready, Mabella took a deep breath and headed downstairs. Her mother was waiting, looking impeccably elegant as always.

"You look beautiful, Mabella," Director Isabella said with a rare, genuine smile.

"Thanks, Mom," Mabella replied, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement.

As they left for the gala, Mabella couldn't help but feel that this night would be a turning point. She was stepping into a new world, and while it was daunting, it was also thrilling. With her mother by her side and the anticipation of the gala ahead, she felt ready to embrace whatever came next.