The bell rang, echoing through the hallways of Crestview High School, signaling the end of morning classes. Helena gathered her books and glanced at Selena, who was deep in conversation with her friend, Mia.
"Hey, are you coming to lunch?" Helena asked, trying to catch her sister's attention.
"Yeah, just a sec!" Selena replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She was discussing a new art project, her passion shining through.
As they made their way to the cafeteria, Helena felt the familiar buzz of energy that always surrounded lunchtime. The air was thick with laughter and chatter, students clumped in groups, sharing stories and meals. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy as she watched her classmates.
"Look at them, Hel," Selena said, nudging her sister. "It's like they live in a different world."
"Let's just focus on us," Helena replied, trying to shake off the feeling. "We can't change them. We have our own goals to reach."
They reached the cafeteria, and as they waited in line for their food, Helena scanned the room. Her eyes landed on Jay Alden, sitting with his friends at a table near the window. He had a casual confidence that drew attention, his laughter echoing across the room.
"Isn't he cute?" Selena whispered, nudging Helena playfully.
"Selena, don't," Helena replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "He's just… a guy."
"Just a guy? He's more than that! He's smart, funny, and actually nice to everyone!" Selena exclaimed, her eyes wide with admiration.
Helena rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile creeping onto her face. Selena had a knack for seeing the good in people, even in those who seemed out of reach. "Okay, okay. But don't get your hopes up."
"Why not? Everyone deserves a little hope!" Selena said, her voice rising with enthusiasm. "Plus, I'm going to draw him later."
"Draw him?" Helena echoed, feeling a mixture of amusement and apprehension. "What if he sees it?"
"Then he'll know I think he's talented," Selena said nonchalantly, but Helena could see the glint of mischief in her sister's eyes.
With their trays in hand, they found a spot at the edge of the cafeteria. The chatter around them faded into background noise as Helena took a deep breath, trying to focus on their lunch rather than the envy swirling within her.
"Selena," she said, her tone more serious, "I really need you to focus on your studies. We can't afford any distractions, especially not with the scholarship deadline coming up."
Selena nodded, her expression shifting to one of understanding. "I know, Hel. I promise I'll buckle down after lunch. But can we enjoy today just a little? It's the weekend coming up!"
"Okay, just for today," Helena relented, a small smile returning. "But no more daydreaming about boys, alright?"
Selena raised her hands in mock surrender, laughing. "Fine, no boys. Just art."
As they finished their lunch, Helena's gaze wandered back to Jay, who was now surrounded by friends, animatedly discussing a recent football game. His laughter filled the room, and for a moment, Helena felt a strange mix of admiration and longing. She quickly turned her attention back to her sister.
"Let's go outside after lunch," Helena suggested. "I need some fresh air."
"Good idea! I'll show you my latest sketches," Selena said, her enthusiasm returning.
After lunch, they headed out to the school courtyard, a small area surrounded by tall trees and benches where students often gathered to relax. The sun poured down, casting a warm glow over the scene.
As they settled on a bench, Selena pulled out her sketchbook, flipping through pages filled with vibrant drawings and colorful characters. "Look at this one!" she exclaimed, showing Helena a whimsical drawing of a girl with flowers in her hair.
"Wow, that's amazing!" Helena said genuinely, impressed by her sister's talent. "You should submit these for the art competition."
Selena's expression turned thoughtful. "I want to, but what if they don't like them? What if I'm not good enough?"
"Selena, don't doubt yourself. Your art is beautiful," Helena encouraged. "You've got to take risks to get anywhere. Just like I'm trying to do with my studies."
Before Selena could respond, a group of students walked by, led by Chloe, one of the popular girls at school. Chloe's eyes flicked over to Helena and Selena, a smirk spreading across her face.
"What are you two doing? Hiding in the corner as usual?" Chloe called out, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
Helena's heart raced, anger bubbling beneath her skin. She could feel Selena tensing beside her. "We're just enjoying the sun, thanks."
"Enjoying the sun? More like wasting time," Chloe shot back, her friends giggling in the background. "I heard you're both up for that scholarship. Good luck, you'll need it."
With a final laugh, Chloe and her friends walked away, leaving a cloud of tension behind them.
"Ugh, why do they have to be so cruel?" Selena muttered, her smile fading.
Helena clenched her fists, fighting the urge to retaliate. "Forget them, Selena. They don't know you, and they certainly don't know us."
"I just wish things were different," Selena said quietly, looking down at her sketchbook. "I wish I could be like them—confident, carefree."
Helena sighed, her heart aching for her sister. She reached over, placing a comforting hand on Selena's shoulder. "You are confident, Sel. You just need to show it. We both do."
As the bell rang again, signaling the end of lunch, Helena stood up, determination coursing through her. "Come on. Let's go back to class. We've got dreams to chase."
Selena smiled weakly, but Helena could see the spark beginning to reignite in her sister's eyes. They walked back to the school, side by side, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.