Chapter 10: Bonds and Betrayals

The following morning Aria went to school. She was both excited and nervous. Ethan's message stayed in her head and made her less defensive with him. But before she could think of this, Sophie came to her locker looking serious.

Sophie was pulling Aria aside to talk to her.

"What's wrong?Aria checked in on her friend because they were in a hurry.

"It's about Ethan," said Sophie in a low voice. You've been spending more time with him these days. Do you think it's a good idea?".

Aria frowned. "What do you mean?".

Like, he's known for that stuff, you know… Sophie said He is not famous for being kind or believable.

Aria sighed. Ethan is difficult to figure out, but he isn't as ugly as everyone says. He's actually been… decent.".

Sophie looked at her in doubt. "Just be careful, okay? I don't want you to get hurt.

"Thanks, Soph," Aria said, giving a small smile. "I'm capable of taking care of myself."

---.

That day, while working on a project at the library, Ethan was oddly quiet. He did not have the usual smirk or smile but was rather contemplative. This left Aria feeling uncomfortable.

"Okay, spill it," Aria said.

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Spill what?".

"I don't think you're yourself today," she said. "What's going on?".

Ethan looked at the table with some hesitation. It's about family, he finally said.

Aria was taken aback. Ethan never spoke about his personal life.

Would you like to communicate regarding it?" she asked gently.

He shook his head. "Not really. But thanks.".

His voice held a vulnerability that pulled at her insides. Without any thought, she reach out and hand over his.

Ethan's cocky look was replaced by vulnerability. At that moment, it was just both of us losing our grasp on the world outside the bubble.

"What ever it is, you are going to go through it," Aria said gently.

Ethan's mouth turned up at the corners. You're a pretty good guy, Bennett.

She pulled her hand back and said, "Don't get used to it."

That evening, a surprise visitor came by Aria's house.

Her mom went towards the living room as she said Ryan was waiting for her with a bouquet.

What're you doing here?"Aria questioned sharply," it was said.

Ryan said, "I wanted to say I'm sorry." "I thought I could talk to your parents and explain myself," I said.

Aria's mom didn't know about the drama so she smiled. Ryan was just telling us how sorry he was.

Mom, can I get some alone time with Ryan?Aria inquired, her tone feeling tight in her throat.

Her mother left the room after a short while.

"Are you insane?Once alone, Aria let out a hiss. You can't show up here unannounced.

"I didn't really have a choice," Ryan said. I realize I did wrong, but I want to make it right. I will do whatever it takes.

Anger sparked in Aria as she crossed her arms. Ryan, that's no longer an option. You can't just return to my life and pick up where we left off.

Before Ryan could speak, the bell rang.

When Aria opened the door, Ethan stood there with his hands shoved into his pockets

"What are you doing here?"She said this in astonishment", he added.

"I was just around," Ethan said casually. However, Ryan caught his gaze, making his jaw tense up. I didn't know you had company.

Ryan moved closer, face getting dark. Carter, why are you here?".

"I'm just checking on Aria," Ethan said in a calm yet menacing tone.

Ryan said, "She doesn't need you." "This is between us.".

Ethan wore a smirk, a relaxed attitude, and sharp eyes. She is able to make that choice for herself.

"Enough!"I am stepping between you guys" said Aria. I'm not an award to be won.

Ryan stared at her, looking soft. "I just want one more chance Aria."

Ethan's smirk faded, replaced by a look of quiet intensity

I'm here since I care for her. I won't harm her, unlike you.

Aria's heart raced as she glanced between the two of them. she wasn't sure how much more tension she could take.

She stated emphatically, "Both of you need to go out." "Now.".

Ryan hesitated but finally said yes. "I'm not giving up", he said and walked away.

Ethan looked into her eyes to gauge her feelings. "You okay?".

"I will be," said Aria, slightly shaky.

Ethan's expression softened, and he nodded. "Let me know if you need anything, Bennett."

As the door closed, Aria sat slowly on the couch.

Her life had gone from predictable to chaotic in a matter of days, and she wasn't sure how she felt about it. All she knew was that Ethan Carter was becoming a bigger part of her life than she'd ever anticipated.