That Free Day, a cozy warmth of the Class VII dorm filled the room as Elise sat gracefully in one of the lounge chairs, her delicate hands folded in her lap. Rean stood nearby, looking somewhat restless as if summoning the courage to speak. Laura, seated not far away, watched with quiet curiosity, her sharp eyes picking up on the faint nervous energy emanating from Rean.
"Actually…" Rean began, his voice breaking the calm silence. He rubbed the back of his neck, glancing toward Elise. "I've been practicing something. It, reminded me of you, Elise, and I thought I'd share it."
Elise blinked, tilting her head slightly. "Oh? What is it, Rean?"
Without replying, Rean stepped away briefly, returning moments later with a lute cradled in his arms. Elise's eyes widened in surprise, her lips parting slightly in an unspoken exclamation.
"A lute?" she murmured, her voice soft.
"Yeah," Rean said with a sheepish smile. "I came across a song that made me think of you. So, I've been practicing it. I'm not exactly a master, but I hope you'll like it."
Elise's hand rose to her chest, touched by the gesture. "I'm sure I will."
Laura leaned forward slightly, intrigued by this unexpected display.
Rean sat down, adjusting the lute in his lap, and began to play a soft, melodic introduction. The notes filled the room with a soothing warmth. Then, taking a deep breath, he began to sing, his voice low and filled with emotion:
"When the stars light up the night,
Guiding us through endless skies,
A bond so pure, unspoken, strong,
With you, my heart has found its song.
Through every trial, every test,
You've been my anchor, been my rest.
Oh, sister dear, my guiding light,
You've made the dark feel ever bright.
In your smile, I see the dawn,
A strength so steady, carrying on.
You are my sister, my truest friend,
With you, this journey knows no end."
The final notes faded, leaving a poignant silence in their wake. Rean lowered the lute, his expression a mixture of bashfulness and hope. Elise sat motionless for a moment, her hands pressed to her lips as tears welled in her eyes.
"Rean..." she whispered, her voice trembling. "That was beautiful. I don't even know what to say."
Rean gave her a lopsided smile, scratching the back of his head. "I'm glad you liked it. I just wanted to show you how much I appreciate you. You've always been there for me, Elise. I hope you know how much that means."
Elise's tears spilled over as she stood, quickly pulling a handkerchief from her pocket to dab her eyes.
Rean, clearly flustered by the intensity of her reaction, awkwardly reached out to pat her on the head.
"There, there," he said, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. "You're my little sister. Of course I'd do this for you."
Laura raised her hand to her mouth, finding the earnest but clumsy display endearing. Elise let out a warm laugh herself and threw her arms around Rean, hugging him tightly.
"Oh, Rean," she murmured. "You're hopeless sometimes. But thank you. Truly."
Rean hugged her back, his expression soft. "Anytime, Elise."
As Elise stepped back, wiping her eyes again with her handkerchief, the room fell into a peaceful quiet.
"How sweet..." Laura whispered to herself.
The heartfelt moment lingered between them, etching itself into their memories as a testament to the unshakable bond of family.