Chapter 4: The Spark of Competition

The day after the leaders of the competition announcement was still mentioned through all the school. Aria walked into the classroom, ignoring stares and whispers from the other students. The first official meeting with the faculty advisor is around the corner, and she needs to see the project outline first to get it accurate.

Sophie, at her desk, leaned over with a cheeky smile. How did your date at the library go with Ethan Carter?".

Aria made a noise expressing exhaustion. "Exhausting. He's a pain in the ass but I'll give him this: he's got some decent ideas.

Sophie raised an eyebrow. "Decent ideas? From Ethan? Are you positive you are not getting sick?".

Aria rolled her eyes. "Don't get your hopes high." He's remains as annoying as ever.

Ethan walked into the classroom before Sophie could say anything. He looked over at the room and when he saw Aria, he smirked and strode over to her.

"Good morning partner," he said as he dropped down next to her.

Aria glared at him. Can't you sit anywhere else?".

"Team bonding," smooth Ethan said. Isn't this what you always preach about".

Sophie almost laughed when Aria swore under her breath and went back to her notes again.

Aria and Ethan had an afterschool meeting with their faculty advisor, Mrs. Patel, in her office. Her desk had a small plant sitting on the corner while the walls were lined with books. The moment they sat down, she smiled at them warmly.

"Welcome, you two," said Mrs Patel. I can't wait to see what you bring to the competition. Have you settled on a theme yet?".

"Aria opened her notebook and started outlining their ideas with a steady voice." For once, Ethan didn't speak, letting her take charge.

Mrs. Patel thought about it when she finished. These are good ideas, but remember, this contest is not about presenting facts. It's about making an emotional connection with your audience. We want you to ask yourselves this; how can you set apart your project from others?

Ethan didn't joke for once and leaned. What if personal stories could drive home our theme? Something genuine that people can relate to.

Aria was surprised by his actions. That is a good idea

Ethan smirked. Bennett, stop acting so surprised. I warned you a surprise was coming.

Mrs. Patel smiled. You are definitely on to something. How about the two of you come up with something over the weekend and give me an outline on Monday?".

Ethan entered Aria's house on Saturday afternoon for their first official brainstorming session. Although she didn't want to let him in, her mother made her do it.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ethan," said mrs Bennet, casually handing him a plate stacked with cookies.

"Thanks, Mrs. Bennet," Ethan said, oozing charming allure.

"Aria crossed her arms and glared at him in the doorway." "Don't get too comfortable. We're in the dining room.

"Lead the way," Ethan said with a smile as he followed.

The two were tense while they spread their notes out on the table. Even though they had different ideas, they managed to stay on track and bounce ideas off each other in a productive manner.

"Alright, Carter." After an hour of brainstorming, Aria said, "You're not entirely useless."

"Those feelings are not an act," he replied. Complimenting Quotes To Say, Essay Sample (5 Words)".

They worked well into the night, lines of competition and friendship starting to mix up. Ethan's departure had Aria wondering if their partnership was slowly starting to… not feel so bad.

The revised outline was commended by Mrs. Patel on Monday morning, who called it "one of the most creative and impactful proposals" she had seen. Others Sony's progress soon came to the notice of the students who were not much surprised.

At lunchtime, Sophie tormented Aria without mercy. You both are really cooperating well together. I'm shocked.".

"It's strictly professional," Aria said despite her blush.

At the same time, Ethan's friends were clearly having fun too. "You seem to be getting soft, Carter," one of them remarked.

Ethan shrugged and smiled a little. Perhaps Bennett is just coming to terms with the fact that I am not the villain she assumes me to be.

Even with the banter, both Aria and Ethan couldn't ignore the shift in their relationship. The boundaries between foes and friends were beginning to mix, and neither of them were sure what to suppose of it.