Chapter 3 - Frayed Threads

As they parted ways after the car accident, a sleek black SUV pulled up.

The door swung open, revealing Ethan (Liam, Kai, and Maya's childhood friend)

Ethan's strong jawline, messy dark hair, and captivating hazel eyes commanded attention.

His warm smile and effortless charm put everyone at ease.

A faint scar above his left eyebrow hinted at a recent injury.

Liam's expression turned guarded.

"Ethan's back," Liam said, his voice low.

Kai grinned.

"The prodigal son returns!" Kai joked.

Maya stood silently, observing Ethan's return.

Ethan chuckled.

"Missed you guys too," Ethan said.

Aria's eyes widened.

"Who's this?" Aria asked.

"Liam, Kai, Maya, and I grew up together," Ethan explained.

Ethan's gaze locked onto Aria's.

"And you are...?" Ethan asked.

Aria's cheeks flushed.

"I'm Aria," she replied.

Ethan's smile radiated charm.

"Welcome to Maple High, Aria," Ethan said.

Liam felt a pang of unease.

"Welcome back, Ethan," Liam said. "How's the recovery going?"

Ethan's expression turned serious.

"It's going," Ethan replied. "Doc says I'm clear to return to school."

Kai nodded.

"Glad you're back, man," Kai said.

Aria's curiosity piqued.

"What happened?" Aria asked.

Ethan's eyes clouded.

"Football injury," Ethan replied. "Tore my ACL a month ago."

Aria winced.

"Sorry," Aria said.

Ethan shrugged.

"Part of the game," Ethan said.

Liam's emotions simmered.

"Stay away from her, Ethan," Liam warned.

Ethan raised an eyebrow.

"Jealous, Liam?" Ethan teased.

Liam's gaze darkened.

"Just looking out for her," Liam replied.

Ethan's eyes sparkled.

"I'll make sure she's okay," Ethan said.

Aria's heart raced.

As Ethan's hand brushed hers.

Liam's jaw clenched.

"I can take care of myself," Aria said.

Ethan leaned in.

"You're breathtaking when you're distracted," Ethan whispered.

Aria's cheeks flushed.

"Ethan, stop," Aria said.

Liam's emotions simmered.

"I'll leave you alone," Ethan said.

Liam stormed off.

Aria felt bewildered.

Intrigued.

Ethan turned to leave.

"Ethan, wait!" Aria called.

Ethan turned back.

Aria tripped.

Ethan caught her.

Their faces inches apart.

Aria's heart pounded.

Their lips met.

Time froze.

Aria's eyes locked onto Ethan's.

Their lips parted.

Gasping.

"I'm sorry," Ethan whispered.

Aria's cheeks flushed.

"It's okay," Aria replied.

Liam watched.

His heart heavy.

Unspoken emotions.