The soft tapping of a keyboard fills the air as Lychie sits at her desk, fully immersed in her case study. Her laptop screen glows, pages of research neatly arranged beside her. The only sound in the room is the occasional scribble of a pen, until a sudden knock on the door breaks her focus.

Lychie pauses, brow furrowing. She wasn't expecting anyone. With a sigh, she pushes her chair back and stands up.

Lychie: "Coming!"

She opens the door and freezes. Standing there, wearing a knowing smile, is her father. But before she can even greet him, a figure peeks from behind his back.

Aine: "Surprise, cuz!"

Lychie: "Aine?!"

Aine steps forward, wrapping Lychie in a tight hug.

Aine: "Did ya miss me?"

Lychie pulls back, still processing.

Lychie: "Wait... what are you doing here? Christmas break isn't for another two weeks."

Aine smirks, arms crossed.

Aine: "Well, my school's generous. They let us off early so we can 'reconnect with our families' and all that jazz."

Lychie: "Tch, lucky you." squints at her "Wait... You're not here just to chill, are you?"

Aine grins mischievously.

Aine: "Maybe... maybe not."

Their father chuckles, watching the two.

Dad: "Alright, girls. You can catch up later. Lychie, show Aine to her room. She'll be staying with us for the break."

Lychie sighs but nods, turning to Aine.

Lychie: "Fine, fine. But I swear if you mess with my study schedule-"

Aine slings an arm around her shoulders, smirking.

Aine: "Relax, I wouldn't dare! Well... maybe a little."

Lychie groans, but despite her feigned annoyance, there's a small smile on her lips. Christmas break just got a little more interesting.

------------

The warm glow of the chandelier lights up the dining room as Lychie and Aine walk in together. Lychie's mom and dad are already seated, waiting for them. The aroma of home-cooked food fills the air, making Lychie's stomach grumble.

Mom: "Aine, dear, it's so nice to have you here! How was your trip?"

Aine: "It was long, but totally worth it. I missed home-cooked meals!"

She eagerly takes a bite of her food, making Lychie chuckle.

Lychie: "You act like you've been starving over there."

Aine: mouth full "Boarding school food is a crime."

Lychie's mom laughs softly before turning to her daughter.

Mom: "And how about you, Lychie? You've been so busy with schoolwork lately."

Lychie glances at her plate, her tone light but honest.

Lychie: "Yeah, finals were tough, but it's finally over. Now, I just have to finish the case study."

Dad: "Speaking of busy... Lychie, how's the chess competition coming along?"

Aine suddenly stops eating and stares at Lychie in shock.

Aine: "Wait-chess? You? Interested?"

Lychie rolls her eyes.

Lychie: "Yes, me. Is that so hard to believe?"

Aine smirks.

Aine: "Very. You've always been the type to drown in books, not move tiny pieces on a board."

Lychie: "Well, people change."

Aine: grinning "Alright, alright. Guess I have to see this for myself. You up for a match later?"

Lychie: "You're on."

Their dad chuckles, clearly amused by their banter, while their mom shakes her head with a smile. The night continues with laughter, teasing, and stories shared around the table-a warm start to Aine's early arrival.

Lychie's dad, who has been quietly listening, suddenly clears his throat.

Dad: "You know, instead of playing against each other blindly, why don't I step in? I could teach you both some tricks-real strategies."

Lychie and Aine exchange glances before turning back to him.

Aine: intrigued "Wait, you play?"

Mom: chuckling "Play? Your uncle wasn't just a player, Aine. He was a chess prodigy back in his day."

Lychie's eyes widen slightly.

Lychie: "Wait, what?"

Dad: "I never told you?"

Lychie: "No! And you're telling me this now, after I struggled through so many matches?"

Her dad laughs.

Dad: "Well, you never asked."

Lychie groans, but she quickly composes herself, eyes gleaming with determination.

Lychie: "Alright, then. I'm taking this as an opportunity. Teach me everything you know."

Aine: grinning "Looks like we're both getting schooled tonight."

The family laughs, the evening filled with warmth and excitement. Aine's arrival has already stirred up new plans, and Lychie, fueled by curiosity and ambition, is more than ready to learn from the best.

_____________________

The cool evening breeze rustles through the trees as Lychie, her dad, and Aine settle near the swimming pool. A small table is set up with a chessboard, the pieces neatly arranged for a fresh match. The soft glow of the outdoor lights reflects on the water, creating a peaceful yet focused atmosphere.

Dad: placing his hands on the board "Alright, Lychie. You've learned the basics, but now it's time to step up your game. Chess isn't just about moving pieces, it's about controlling the board, predicting moves, and making sacrifices when needed."

Aine leans forward, resting her chin on her palm, clearly intrigued.

Aine: "Sounds intense. No wonder people take forever to make a single move."

Lychie: "So what's the first strategy?"

Her dad moves a white pawn two spaces forward.

Dad: "This is the Sicilian Defense, a powerful opening used by many grandmasters. When your opponent plays e4, instead of mirroring it, you go for c5. It disrupts the center and allows for counterplay."

Lychie watches closely, absorbing the information.

Aine: "So basically, it's a way to mess with your opponent's plans?"

Dad: chuckling "In a way, yes. Chess is about controlling the pace of the game. You don't always have to attack immediately. Sometimes, the best strategy is to wait, lure them into a trap, and strike when they least expect it."

Lychie nods, her mind already working through possible scenarios.

Lychie: "Alright, let's say my opponent falls for it. What do I do next?"

Her dad moves a knight, explaining how to develop pieces efficiently while maintaining board control.

Dad: "The key is positioning. Every move should have a purpose. The worst thing you can do in chess is move aimlessly."

Aine smirks.

Aine: "Sounds like life advice, too."

Lychie shoots her a playful glare before refocusing on the board.

Dad: "Now, let's see if you can apply this. I'll play as your opponent and you'll use what I just taught you."

Lychie takes a deep breath, setting her fingers on the pawn.

Lychie: "Alright. Let's do this."

The soft splashing of water from the pool and the occasional chirping of crickets set the backdrop as the game begins. Aine watches eagerly, while Lychie's dad observes with a proud smile, knowing his daughter is on the path to becoming a formidable player.

The night deepens, and the chessboard is set for the final round. Lychie, determined as ever, takes a deep breath as she prepares for another attempt against her father. Aine, still sitting beside them, watches closely, offering encouragement.

Aine: "Come on, Lych! Third time's the charm!"

Lychie: "We'll see about that..."

The game begins, and just like before, her father dominates the board with precise, calculated moves. Lychie struggles to keep up, her mind seeking possibilities. She plays defensively, but her dad counters every attempt, forcing her into a difficult position.

After a few more moves, she finds herself trapped, either move she makes will lead to a checkmate. Defeat seems inevitable.

Lychie: sighs "I don't see a way out of this."

Her dad hums thoughtfully before making his next move, subtly creating an opening for her. It's a small mistake, one that Lychie doesn't realize was intentional.

Dad: smiling "Think carefully. There's still a way."

Lychie furrows her brows, scanning the board, her mind working quickly. Then, suddenly, she sees it, a single opportunity to turn the tables. Her heart races as she moves her queen, cornering her father's king.

Lychie: excitedly "Checkmate!"

Aine gasps dramatically and claps her hands.

Aine: "No way! She actually won!"

Her father leans back, pretending to be surprised before chuckling.

Dad: smiling "Impressive, Lychie. You saw the opening and took it."

Lychie beams, feeling a rush of pride.

Lychie: "That was so intense! I really thought I was gonna lose again!"

Aine nudges her with a knowing smirk.

Aine: "Well, you did... twice. But hey, third time's the charm, right?"

Her dad chuckles, standing up and stretching.

Dad: "Maybe next time, I won't go easy on you."

Lychie freezes.

Lychie: "Wait, what?"

Aine bursts into laughter, realizing what had happened.

Aine: "Oh my god. You totally let her win, didn't you Uncle?"

Her dad only grins, neither confirming nor denying.

Lychie glares at him playfully, crossing her arms.

Lychie: pouting "You mean I didn't actually win?"

Dad:  "A win is a win. But next time, no more freebies."

Lychie huffs but can't help but smile. Even if he let her win, she still learned a lot.

Aine:  "Well, at least now you know what victory feels like... even if it's kinda fake."

Lychie: "Shut up, Aine."

The night air is filled with laughter as the three of them continue talking, the chessboard still sitting between them, silent proof of the lessons learned that night.

The laughter between Lychie, Aine, and their dad continues, but it's soon interrupted by the sound of the sliding glass door opening. Lychie's mom steps outside, arms crossed, looking at them with an amused yet firm expression.

Mom: raising an eyebrow "Are you three planning to stay out here all night?"

Lychie and Aine glance at each other, trying not to giggle.

Dad: "Just finishing up a little lesson. Lychie's improving."

Mom: "I'm sure she is. But you need to get some rest too, dear. You're not as young as you used to be."

Dad: "Ouch. That hurts."

Lychie and Aine laugh as their mom shakes her head.

Mom: "Alright, enough games for tonight. Aine, you just got here, and Lychie, you've been buried in schoolwork. It's time for bed."

Aine stretches her arms with a dramatic sigh.

Aine: "I guess she's right. I need my beauty sleep."

Lychie: rolling her eyes "As if you don't already have enough of it."

Aine:  "Flattery will get you nowhere, dear cousin."

Their dad stands up, patting Lychie's head gently before turning to his wife.

Dad: "Alright, alright. We're coming in."

Lychie takes one last glance at the chessboard, determination flickering in her eyes.

Lychie: to herself  "Next time, I'll win for real."

Her mom smiles, watching the two girls' competitive spirit before ushering them all inside. As they head back into the house, the backyard falls silent, leaving only the faint rustling of leaves and the soft glow of the night sky.

___________________________________________________

Sunday 

The soft chime of the clock echoes in the quiet room. Sunlight filters through the curtains, casting golden patterns on the walls. Lychie is still curled up in bed, deep in sleep, until a gentle knock interrupts the silence.

Maid: "Miss Lychie, it's almost noon. Time to wake up."

Lychie groans, pulling the blanket over her head in protest. The maid chuckles softly before stepping closer.

Maid: "Your cousin Aine is waiting for you downstairs. Lunch is ready."

At the mention of food, Lychie stirs, her eyes fluttering open. She blinks sluggishly, then suddenly jolts up.

Lychie: "Noon?! Why didn't anyone wake me up earlier?"

She runs a hand through her messy hair, still groggy.

Maid: "You looked so peaceful, Miss. We didn't want to disturb you."

Lychie sighs, rubbing her temples before getting out of bed. As she stretches, a thought crosses her mind.

Lychie: "Where's Mom and Dad?"

The maid, already expecting the question, replies calmly.

Maid: "They had to leave early for a quick meeting. They should be back in the afternoon."

Lychie frowns slightly but quickly brushes it off.

Lychie: "Figures. Alright, I'm coming."

She lazily makes her way downstairs, still shaking off the last traces of sleep. When she reaches the dining room, she spots Aine already seated, scrolling through her phone. The moment Aine sees Lychie, she smirks.

Aine: "Look who finally decided to wake up. Enjoy your beauty sleep, princess?"

Lychie rolls her eyes, plopping down on the chair.

Lychie: "Shut up. Just pass me the rice."

Aine giggles but does as told, and the two begin their meal, chatting casually as the afternoon sun shines outside.

The sound of utensils clinking against plates fills the dining room as Lychie and Aine enjoy their lunch. The aroma of warm food lingers in the air, and the midday sun streams through the large windows, casting a cozy glow over the table.

Lychie, now fully awake and back to her senses, leans slightly on the table, resting her chin on her hand as she watches Aine eat.

Lychie: "So, how's New Zealand? I kinda forgot to ask you this last night"

Aine pauses for a moment, chewing thoughtfully before setting down her spoon.

Aine: "It's... different. Peaceful, I guess. The school's strict, but I got used to it. The people? Well, some are nice, some are just there."

Lychie raises an eyebrow.

Lychie: "Just there?"

Aine shrugs, a small smirk forming on her lips.

Aine: "Yeah, you know, existing but not exactly worth remembering."

Lychie chuckles at her cousin's bluntness before taking a sip of her drink.

Lychie: "Still causing trouble?"

Aine lets out a short laugh, shaking her head.

Aine: "Not as much as before. I figured I should tone it down since I'm basically living on borrowed grace."

Lychie's expression softens. She knows Aine has had a rough past, losing both her parents at a young age, acting out, and eventually being sent to boarding school. Lychie's parents took Aine in, raising her like their own, but it took a while for Aine to settle down. She still has her grandmother from her mother's side but her grandmother was too old to take care of her so the turn of events of the past was complicated for Aine, that's why she became a troublemaker which basically led her to study abroad for boarding school to straighten herself up.

Lychie: "You're not on borrowed grace, you know. You're family. Always have been."

Aine looks at her for a moment before a small, genuine smile replaces her usual teasing smirk.

Aine: "Yeah, I know. Thanks, Lych."

They continue eating, their conversation shifting to lighter topics, funny stories from school, the latest trends, and random gossip. The warmth of home surrounds them, making this simple lunch feel just right.

The laughter between Lychie and Aine dies down slightly as their conversation shifts. Aine twirls her fork between her fingers before glancing at Lychie with curiosity.

Aine: "Enough about me. What about you? How's school been? Still acing every subject like a total nerd?"

Lychie rolls her eyes but smirks.

Lychie: "Of course. What did you expect?"

Aine chuckles, leaning back in her chair.

Aine: "Classic Lychie. So, anything interesting going on? Friends? Drama? A... special someone, perhaps?" She raises an eyebrow teasingly.

Lychie nearly chokes on her drink before shooting Aine a glare.

Lychie: "Oh, shut up. My life isn't some cheesy romance novel."

Aine gasps dramatically, placing a hand on her chest.

Aine: "No way. You hesitated. That means there's someone!"

Lychie sighs, scratching her hair.

Lychie: "Fine, if you must know, there's this guy, Kent. But before you start getting ideas, he's just teaching me chess."

Aine squints at her suspiciously.

Aine: "OOOOOOh, Chess? Now I get why you're so determined to win last night"

Lychie shrugs, pretending to be nonchalant.

Lychie: "What? It's... strategic. I like challenges."

Aine grins, clearly enjoying this revelation.

Aine: "Or maybe you like your chess coach?"

Lychie groans.

Lychie: "I regret telling you anything."

Aine laughs, satisfied with the reaction.

Aine: "Alright, alright, I'll stop. But I am curious about your school life. Tell me everything, your friends, the tea, the chaos."

Lychie leans back, crossing her arms.

Lychie: "Where do I even start?"

And just like that, the conversation deepens, leading to stories of friendships, rivalries, and all the craziness that comes with school life.

_______________________________

Monday Morning - Outside the Fajardo Mansion

The sun is barely up, emitting a soft golden hue over the estate. Lychie steps out of the grand doors, adjusting the strap of her school bag. As she approaches her service car, she spots Aine stretching by the fountain, dressed in full workout gear, sports bra, running leggings, and sneakers, exuding energy like it's her life source.

Aine: "Morning, sleepyhead! Off to conquer the academic world again?"

Lychie yawns, rubbing her eyes.

Lychie: "Unfortunately."

Aine chuckles before tying her hair into a high ponytail.

Aine: "Well, at least one of us is being productive in the books. Meanwhile, I'll be out here, touching grass and keeping my cardio in check."

Lychie scoffs, stepping into the car.

Lychie: "Yeah, yeah. Have fun torturing yourself."

Aine smirks, giving her a lazy salute.

Aine: "Good luck with your day, nerd!"

Lychie rolls her eyes but smiles as the car door shuts, and the vehicle pulls away, officially starting another week of school.

__________________________________

The hallway is occupied with energetic students as they crowd around the bulletin board, chattering about the semester rankings. Lychie, adjusting the strap of her bag, walks past the crowd but stops when she catches a glimpse of the posted names. Curiosity gets the best of her, so she steps closer.

Her eyes scan the list, and her heart skips a beat when she sees her name at the very top.

1st – Lychie Fajardo
2nd – Kent Alcantara
3rd – Ian Velasco
4th – Nial Mendoza
5th – Joyane Villanuave
8th – Anya Tanaka
15th – Cale Alejandro
22nd – Eddie Lim

Lychie smiles to herself, satisfied, while her friends react differently to their own rankings.

Cale: "15th, huh? Not bad, not great. Whatever." 

Nial: "4th place? I'll take it."

Eddie: "Damn, I thought I'd be at least in the teens..." 

Anya: "Pfft, as long as I can still do my art, grades are secondary."

Joyane, standing beside Lychie, hums in approval at her own spot.

Joyane: "5th place? Not bad, not bad."

Lychie, still absorbing the moment, is about to turn away when her gaze lands on another list posted beside the rankings. Her stomach tightens as she reads the bolded title: Chess Competition Participants.

She steps closer, and sure enough, her name is there.

Her hands grip her bag straps as excitement quickly shifts to nerves.

Lychie: "Oh no..."

Her friends catch her reaction.

Cale: "What now?"

Lychie, still staring at the list, mutters under her breath.

Lychie: "I... I got in."

Nial: "Got in where?"

She turns to them, gulping.

Lychie: "The chess tryouts."

A beat of silence, then...

Anya: "Welp, guess that means no backing out now." 

Lychie groans, already feeling the pressure sink in.