Third Person POV
Aelia and Galileo's bond had grown stronger over the passing months, evolving into a beautiful friendship that resembled that of a brother and sister. They were inseparable, sharing stories, laughing over silly jokes, and spending countless afternoons exploring the world around them. Galileo's guitar melodies had become the soundtrack to their adventures, his voice carrying their spirits higher with each note.
Every day, like clockwork, Galileo would visit Aelia's house, a familiar knock followed by his bright smile lighting up the room. It was a routine that brought comfort and joy to both of them. They had a special corner in the backyard where they'd often sit, surrounded by the lush greenery, sharing dreams and aspirations, and nurturing a bond that felt unbreakable.
But one day, that routine was disrupted. Aelia stood by the window, peering out onto the street, her eyes scanning for the familiar figure she had grown accustomed to seeing. The minutes turned into an hour, and still, Galileo didn't arrive. A sense of unease settled in her chest, and she couldn't shake off the worry that was building within her.
Finally unable to contain her curiosity, Aelia turned to her older brother, Lucas, who was sitting in the living room, absorbed in his own world.
"Kuya Lucas, have you seen Galileo today?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Lucas looked up from his book, his expression shifting from indifference to something akin to jealousy. He had noticed how much time Aelia spent with Galileo lately, and although he considered Galileo a good friend, he couldn't help feeling a pang of sibling rivalry.
"Why are you always asking about Galileo? What about your own brother?" Lucas retorted, his tone teasing but laced with genuine annoyance.
Aelia blinked, taken aback by his reaction. She hadn't meant to make him feel neglected, and she certainly hadn't realized how much her inquiries about Galileo might be affecting her brother.
"No, it's not like that, Kuya," Aelia hurriedly explained. "I just... Galileo comes here every day, and today he didn't show up. I was just worried, that's all."
Lucas softened as he saw the genuine concern in his sister's eyes. He sighed and set his book aside, patting the space next to him on the couch.
"Come here, Aleia," he said, using her full name in a rare moment of seriousness.
Aelia walked over and settled beside him, her brow furrowed.
"Look, I get it. Galileo is a cool guy, and you two seem to have a great time together," Lucas began, trying to keep his tone light. "But remember, I'm your brother. You can always talk to me, too."
Aelia smiled softly, her heart warming at his words. She had always looked up to Lucas, admired his protective nature and his ability to make her laugh even on the gloomiest days.
"Of course, Kuya. You're my big brother, and no one can replace you," Aelia assured him, wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug.
Lucas chuckled and ruffled her hair, a sign of affection he reserved for their most heartfelt moments. "Good. Now, about Galileo, I actually heard from him today."
Aelia's eyes lit up, and she pulled away slightly, excitement coursing through her. "Really? What did he say?"
Lucas gave her a small smile. "He's not feeling well, Aleia. He's got a fever and needs some rest. That's why he couldn't make it today."
Aelia's worry returned, now directed towards her dear friend. "Oh no, that's not good. I hope he gets better soon."
Lucas nodded. "I'm sure he will. And maybe you can make him a get-well card or something. You're good at that artsy stuff."
Aelia grinned, the idea already forming in her mind. "Yeah, I'll make the best card ever! And maybe we can bring him some soup and his favorite cookies."
Lucas chuckled. "See? You've got it all figured out. Just remember, your big brother is here for you, too. alright little kiddo?"
"im not kiddo anymore, im already 17 kuya!" she hissed but her brother just chuckled.
"but you're still my baby" he said
"whatever kuya" she said.
As Aelia role her eyes, a sense of gratitude washed over her. She realized that while her bond with Galileo was special, her relationship with Lucas was equally precious. They were a team, a trio of friends, each bringing something unique to the table. And as they navigated life's challenges and joys together, Aelia knew that her heart had room for both her dear brother and her beloved friend Galileo.
Later that day, Aelia and her brother Lucas decided to pay a visit to Galileo's house. Aelia had spent the afternoon crafting a heartfelt get-well card filled with colorful drawings, encouraging messages, and a promise of homemade cookies. Lucas had picked up a warm bowl of soup from their favorite local deli, knowing that Galileo could use some comfort food.
As they reached Galileo's front door, Aelia's heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and worry. She held the card tightly in her hands, her fingers tracing over the carefully drawn designs. Lucas gave her a reassuring smile and gently knocked on the door.
After a few moments, the door swung open, revealing Galileo's mother, Mrs. Rodriguez. Her warm smile turned into a look of surprise as she saw Aelia and Lucas standing there.
"Hello, Mrs. Rodriguez. We heard that Galileo isn't feeling well, and we wanted to come and visit him," Lucas explained.
Her eyes softened, touched by their thoughtfulness. "That's very kind of you. Galileo is resting in his room. I'm sure he'd be thrilled to see you."
She stepped aside, allowing Aelia and Lucas to enter. The familiar scent of Galileo's home greeted them – a mixture of cozy warmth and the faint aroma of freshly brewed tea. Aelia felt a surge of familiarity, as if she was stepping into a second home.
As they walked down the hallway, Aelia clutched the card even tighter, her heart pounding with nervousness. Lucas gave her a gentle nudge, offering silent encouragement. They reached Galileo's room, and Aelia took a deep breath before knocking softly.
"Come in," came Galileo's weak voice from inside.
Aelia pushed the door open, revealing Galileo nestled under the covers of his bed, looking slightly disheveled but managing a weak smile when he saw them.
"Hey there, you two," he greeted, his voice a bit raspy.
Aelia couldn't help the mixture of relief and concern that washed over her. She held up the card with a grin. "We brought you something to cheer you up!"
Galileo's eyes lit up when he saw the card. "Aww, you didn't have to do that. You really know how to brighten someone's day, Aelia."
Aelia blushed, feeling a warm flutter in her chest at his words. She handed him the card, and he carefully opened it, his smile growing as he saw the drawings and messages she had poured her heart into.
"Wow, this is amazing! Did you draw all of this?" Galileo asked, genuinely impressed.
Aelia nodded, her shyness dissipating as she saw his reaction. "Yep, I wanted to make it special."
Lucas stepped forward, holding out the bowl of soup. "And I brought you some soup from the deli. Mom says it's the ultimate comfort food."
Galileo's gratitude was evident in his eyes as he took the bowl from Lucas. "Thanks, man. You guys really didn't have to do this."
Lucas shrugged, a casual grin on his face. "Hey, what are friends for?"
As Galileo took a tentative sip of the soup, Aelia pulled up a chair and sat beside him, feeling a sense of contentment in being there for her friend. They spent the afternoon talking, laughing, and reminiscing about their adventures. Galileo's energy might have been subdued by his illness, but his spirit remained as vibrant as ever.
As the visit came to an end, Aelia felt a sense of happiness knowing that she had helped bring a smile to Galileo's face. They promised to visit him again soon and share more stories. Before they left, Galileo looked at Aelia with a grateful expression.
"Thank you, Aelia. You and Lucas really made my day better," he said, his eyes shining.
Aelia grinned and bumped her fist against his gently. "Anytime, Galileo. Just remember, even when you're not feeling well, you're still braver than you think."
They exchanged a knowing look, a shared memory from a time long ago when Galileo had offered her the same words of encouragement. And in that moment, their bond felt stronger than ever – a connection that went beyond just friendship, like the sibling they had become to each other.
As Aelia and Lucas left Galileo's house, the sun was setting in hues of orange and pink. Aelia felt a deep sense of gratitude for the people in her life, for the friendships that had blossomed and the lessons they had taught her. And as she looked up at the sky, she knew that even when challenges arose, their bond would remain unbreakable, just like the colors of a sunset that painted the world with beauty and warmth.