Chapter 13: Unveiling Connections

After a week, there were school projects to manage, a misunderstanding with Ryan and complications with Ethan threatening to overshadow Aria's mind. But over time, her family and friends made the disturbance messier without realising.

---.

While they were having dinner, Aria's mom told the family that they were having a small get together that weekend.

"Who's coming?Aria asked as she took a spoonful of rice.

"There's only a handful of friends," her mum said. "And their kids. It'll be fun.".

Aria groaned. Mom, I don't even like half the people you invite to these things.

Her mom smiled and said, "Too bad." Helping me set up you.

---.

When Saturday came, Aria was ready for a night of awkward small talk and dodging questions about what she would do next. But nothing could have prepared her for seeing Ethan Carter walk through her front door with his mom.

Aria stopped talking at that moment and looked at him. Ethan looked just as shocked to see her but very quickly hid it with his usual smirk.

"I'm sure you're joking," Aria said under her breath.

"Aria!" her mom called. Visit Mrs. Carter and her son and say hi. They simply relocated back into the community.

Ethan's mom, elegant and graceful, smiled kindly at Aria. "You must be Aria. Ethan informed me regarding you.

"He has?Aria looked at Ethan and said, "Do you really like me?"

"Only good things, I promise," said Mrs. Carter.

Ethan leaned into Aria and said quietly. "Bennett, don't look so happy to see me," I say.

What are you up to here?" she hissed.

"Our moms are friends apparently," said Ethan, laughing. "Small world, huh?".

---.

It only got more chaotic after Sophie along with her family arrived. Aria's best friend saw Ethan instantly and raised an eyebrow.

"What's he doing here?" Sophie asked.

"I wish I knew," Aria said.

Sophie's presence brought relief, but Ethan was there to make sure she didn't forget him. He was everywhere, whether it was "accidentally" bumping into Aria in the kitchen or having a surprisingly charming chat with her dad.

"I don't trust him," Sophie said, eyes glued to Ethan across the room.

"You don't trust anybody," said Aria.

Sophie responded, "That's not illogical." "He's trouble, Aria.".

Aria was unable to say anything before her mom called for her to help her with dessert.

---.

As guests started leaving that night, Ethan caught Aria alone on the front porch.

"Your mom makes a great lasagna," he said casually.

Aria crossed her arms and said, "Glad you liked it." What's your purpose of being here Ethan?"".

"I didn't know our moms were friends-either," he said, leaning on the railing. Now that I know, I guess I'll be showing up more.

Aria rolled her eyes. "Of course you will.".

Ethan's playful expression softened. I do not want to complicate your life Bennett. It's true, I really enjoy having you here.

His honesty took Aria by surprise.

"Before she could say anything, Mrs. Carter called for Ethan to leave."

Ethan said, "See you at school," giving her a grin as he left.

---.

The next day, Sophie came to Aria's house. Aria had not yet stopped thinking about her and Sophie's families being similar.

"I can't believe it & my breath is taken away," Sophie said, showing her phone.

"What now?'Aria said, as she stepped in.'

"He has been out in the slums doing some dirty stuff," she said, scrolling through the feed.

Aria made a face and took the phone. Social media posts about the protest ranged from vague and regretful to ominous and echoing a determination to not give up.

Aria muttered that this thing is ridiculous.

"Agreed," Sophie said. But Aria, you must be careful. Ryan does not seem the type of person to back down easily.

Aria sighed, feeling burdened by a lot of weighty issues. With Ethan's family drama, Ryan's obsession, and many of her own feelings of confusion, she didn't know how much more she can take.

---.

Ethan was at the lockers waiting for her at school on Monday.

"Hey, Bennett," he said, slouching against the wall.

What do you want Carter?Aria was tired, she asked.

Ethan surprised her with his sincerity when he said, "I wanted to see how you're holding up after the other night."

"I'm okay," she replied, but without much belief.

Ethan examined her for a short time before he nodded. "Good. I'll take care of it if Ryan tries anything.