"Good morning!!" Taylor bounded into the kitchen, his infectious energy filling the room. With a swift movement, he planted a tender kiss on his sister's cheek.

True to his mischievous nature, he couldn't resist attempting to swipe a mini pancake from the plate. However, his sister caught him red-handed and playfully smacked his hand with her pink spatula.

"Sit yourself down and eat like a civilized person, young man!" Rae admonished while passing him a small plate and a bottle of honey.

Taylor pouted his lips and shot his sister a mock glare.

"Aw..." Rae couldn't help but chuckle. She gazed at her brother, who was undoubtedly sulking at her gentle scolding.

"Did it hurt?"

"Yes..." he replied, his eyes locking with hers as he batted his long eyelashes and pouted once more.

"Trust me, if you don't cease your mischief, the consequences will be far worse," she warned, patting his shoulder lightly.

"You can't deny that I'm irresistibly cute, can you?" he cooed, his voice brimming with adorable sweetness. Rae almost swatted him with a spoon, but she couldn't bring herself to do it. Instead, she burst into laughter at the sight of Taylor's face.

Passing him a fork, she watched with affection as her little one savored his breakfast, their shared moments of joy filling the room with warmth.

"Yes, you are undeniably cute..." she replied, her words laced with affection, accompanied by a radiant smile. Taylor continued to munch on his pancake, reveling in the joy of being adorable in his sister's eyes. He understood Rae better than anyone else.

Though she had a reserved and strict demeanor, like anyone else, she had her vulnerabilities. And he was her weakness. He held the power to ask for anything, talk about anything, and she never denied him or said no.

Never.

Suddenly, a slightly disheveled figure burst into the kitchen, resembling someone who had just been chased by a bull. The boy was panting heavily, beads of sweat glistening on his forehead, gasping for breath.

"Well, good morning to you too, Mint," Rae greeted him with a hint of amusement. Mint simply waved his hand up and down, still struggling to regain his composure. Rae couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, rising from her seat and fetching a plate for him.

Mint, still panting, gratefully took the plate and served himself a piece of pancake, dousing it with syrup. Despite his earlier ordeal, he savored his breakfast with his customary gusto, though a weary expression lingered on his face.

Taylor furrowed his brows in concern, his curiosity piqued. Mint finished his last bite, signaling the end of his silent struggle.

"Mister Klien... he's leaving..."

"What?! Are you certain?"

"Yes, Patty heard it from Garfield, who spilled the news to Trent, who then went to Holland's house for a supposed 'sleepover' and shared the details with Mike, who finally informed me... He's resigning and moving to New York for a significant theater project," Rae's lips parted in astonishment.

How could Mint manage to spill all that information in a single breath? She was genuinely amazed by his talent.

"Traitor! I knew he'd eventually run off!" Taylor exclaimed, his plate clattering into the sink as he downed his milk, his eyes smoldering with anger.

"What did you guys expect? We all knew Trevor's lifelong dream was to work in the theater," Mint remarked with a hint of resignation in his voice.

"...and now he's just abandoning us like that..." Taylor sighed, his expression turning gloomy as he leaned against the countertop.

"So, what do we do now? The competition is right around the corner!" Mint voiced his concern, sitting on a stool, appearing equally demotivated.

"Boys, listen..." Rae interjected, clapping her hands together to gain their attention. Both Taylor and Mint turned their gaze toward her, awaiting her words.

"With or without him, you two are exceptional, no matter what. Year after year, you have never failed to emerge victorious. The most crucial thing is to never give up, no matter the circumstances! Gather your strength, continue practicing as you always have, and never lose hope. I'm sure your teacher is already searching for a replacement. Have faith in him, alright?" Rae spoke with conviction, her eyes radiating hope as she addressed them.

Instantly, Mint and Taylor felt a wave of reassurance wash over them, as a smile of encouragement blossomed on their faces.

Rae's smile, so full of motherly warmth, had a magical effect on them. It had the power to alleviate their stress, weariness, sadness, and even anger. It was a smile that could brighten their darkest moments, like a rainbow shining after a heavy downpour, or a glimmer of hope following a fierce storm.

"Thank you, Rae..." Taylor enveloped his sister in a tight hug. She was his world, and he couldn't fathom his life without her. The thought of losing her was unimaginable.

Rae was the best sister he could ever ask for, and he knew he could never fully repay her for all the sacrifices she had made to ensure their happiness.

"I need a hug too..." Mint pouted, longing for his share of affection. Rae's smile widened as she drew him into her embrace, giving him the warmest hug she could muster. Taylor joined in, enveloping his best friend and sister with boundless love.

"Now, get moving before I give you a smack!" Rae snapped back into her stern mode, though a mischievous glint sparkled in her eyes. The three of them burst into laughter, swiftly grabbing their bags and making their way toward the front door.

"Rae..." Taylor caught her gaze with his tender eyes.

"I love you..." he whispered, his words lingering in the air as he slowly faded from her sight.

"Love you too, Taytay..." Rae smiled, her voice filled with affection, before she stepped back into the house, carrying the warmth of their love with her.

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

A sleek black Ford Edge swiftly pulled into the high school parking lot. Gradually, the car decelerated and came to a stop in front of the Department of Music and Fine Art building.

Emerging from the vehicle was a tall man, his face small yet captivating, his eyes reminiscent of gentle deer. His hair was casually styled in a half-bun, adding to his charming appearance.

Carrying a backpack and a camera, he stepped onto the school grounds, his smile brimming with delight as he immersed himself in the beauty of the spring scenery.

"This is amazing!" he exclaimed, his camera lens capturing every artistic and ethereal detail in his surroundings. He clicked away, freezing moments in time that held a touch of magic.

Following him, another man, of slight stature with jet-black hair and porcelain skin, emerged from the car. Donning black-framed glasses and holding a small bag, he observed the tall man with a gentle smile on his lips.

Yes, everything seemed small in comparison to him.

"Are you ready?" he inquired.

The tall man nodded, a cute bunny-like smile adorning his face. With the camera in hand, he continued to capture the essence of their surroundings. It had been a wise decision to invite him along on this outing.

The other man needed these moments of venturing outside, a chance to let off some steam. Life in the bustling city could be overwhelming at times. He was grateful for the opportunity to spend more time together, cherishing their moments side by side.

A wine-colored Palisade pulled up shortly after, its speed slightly on the daring side before coming to a stop next to the black car.

"What a ride!" exclaimed the owner of the car as he stepped out, stretching his back.

Another tall guy emerged from the vehicle, his forehead adorned with black hair that partially obscured his face. With pouty pink lips, he wore a white shirt paired with a brown corduroy jacket and blue jeans, clutching a large black pouch in his hand.

"Where is he, Youn? I hope we're in the right place. I don't want to move my ass and drive again!" The tall guy pouted, looking at Youn. Youn simply chuckled and patted his friend's broad shoulder.

"He'll be here soon. I already texted him," Youn assured.

"Hey, it seems like your brother is enjoying the scenery," Jazz remarked, pouting his lips playfully in the direction of the tall guy. Youn's gummy smile brightened his face.

"I hope so. I'm glad he decided to come along," Youn replied.

"Hello, welcome to Rose Town High School!" greeted a tall guy, donning a white shirt and black pants. His grin was wide, revealing a charming dimple. Youn chuckled and embraced him in a warm hug.

"Joe! It's been ages, buddy!" he exclaimed, patting Joe's back as they separated. Joe's eyes then caught sight of the broad-shouldered man standing behind them, causing his heart to flutter unexpectedly.

"Looks like you brought your entourage..." Joe's voice trailed off, his eyes shining with curiosity.

"Oh! This is Jazz Aramenta, my agent. And my brother, Cole," Youn introduced, and handshakes were exchanged. As Joe shook Jazz's hand, a strange sensation tugged at his heart, causing him to withdraw his hand quickly and blush.

"So, shall we?" Joe asked, eager to proceed. They made their way into the building.

However, Youn soon realized that something was amiss.

"Wait, I think I forgot my phone. I'll catch up with you later," he informed them before swiftly turning back towards his car. He opened the driver's door, retrieved his phone from the dashboard, and locked the car door.

At that moment, a figure passed by him, or rather, a lady on a bicycle. She glided beside him, the gentle breeze brushing against his skin.

She halted her bicycle right in front of the main entrance of the building. With shoulder-length brunette hair, a sweet smile, and dressed in a white shirt, blue jeans, and vibrant red high-top Converse shoes, she emanated a captivating aura.

Youn found himself frozen in place. He couldn't move, couldn't speak, couldn't even blink. It felt like a dream, as if time had paused, leaving only him and the lady in the world. His chest tightened, his eyes quivered. The desire to embrace her overwhelmed him.

A whirlwind of emotions stirred within him, swirling in a turbulent mix.

Summoning all his courage, Youn took a step forward, intending to greet the lady. However, his movement came to a sudden halt as he noticed another guy emerging from the building.

A smile adorned her face as she handed something to him. They embraced tightly, and he planted a gentle kiss on her cheek, causing her cheeks to flush. In response, she playfully smacked his chest.

A sharp pang pierced through Youn's heart. Unbeknownst to him, tears welled up in his eyes. He simply stood there, gazing at the lady as she bid her farewell, waving her hand to the guy who excitedly received the package from her.

His phone buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. It was a call from Joe.

"Hey, I'm coming..." Youn ended the call, wiped away his tears, and proceeded into the building. Casting a backward glance, he found no trace of them.

Perhaps it was all just a figment of his imagination.

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

"Rae!" Taylor bounded down the stairs.

"Why do you always forget your things?" Rae scolded Taylor, but he responded with an innocent smile. She handed him his lunchbox.

"Thanks, Rae... I love you so much!" Taylor embraced her tightly. He knew that would melt away any anger.

"I'm late because of you! So, today you'll be doing the dishes and laundry!"

"Yes, ma'am!" Rae couldn't help but chuckle at Taylor's smile. How could she stay mad when she was met with such an adorable face? It was impossible!

Suddenly, Taylor planted a small kiss on her cheek.

"Oh, you crazy boy!" Rae playfully smacked his chest. Taylor fluttered his long eyelashes.

"Don't you dare forget about it, okay?" she warned him. Taylor nodded.

After bidding their goodbyes, Rae left for work. As she neared the school gate, a strange sensation compelled her to turn back. She felt like someone was watching her. Rae halted her bicycle and glanced over her shoulder, but there was no one there.

Perhaps it was just her imagination.

With a hum, she continued cycling to work, leaving the school grounds behind.