From Hate to Forever

The library was unusually quiet, other than the soft hum of air conditioning and the shuffle of pages. Aria had pulled out a table in the room where their group was working on the project. Ethan was sitting in front of her on a chair, looking totally cool as he played with a pencil.

Aria said, "So I made a list of a few themes we could think of for the competition." This is what I have gotten so far.

Ethan took a lazy look at her notebook. You've written a full essay there. What's the rush?".

"It's Called Preparation Carter, said Aria. "You definitely have no idea."

Ethan smirked, leaning forward. "Relax, Bennett. You are going to wear yourself out before we start.

Aria glared at him. "If you're not going to take this seriously, why even come?"".

Who says I'm joking?"Ethan replied with blue eyes locked on hers." Just because I am cool as a cucumber does not mean I am dull.

"Dont you dare finish that sentence," Ayra interrupted and blushed.

Ethan smiled, clearly enjoying her fluster. "I am listening to you, Miss Perfect."

Ignoring his teasing, Aria composed herself and kept her calm. One option might be to go with a subject such as innovation in education, or mental health awareness, or building community. These issues are significant and align with the competition's values.

Ethan shrugged. "Sounds fine, I guess.".

"You guess?" Aria said incredulously. Did you have any advice?".

"Yeah, Ethan leaned back in his chair." Let's talk about something people care about. For example, a stereotype break.

Aria frowned. "That's... not a bad idea.".

Ethan's smirk widened. "See? I'm not completely useless.".

Aria scoffed, "Debatable," though she couldn't help a smile tugging at her lips.

---.

Later That Evening.

As the evening passed, the two of them managed to compete a rough draft for their project. Even if Aria works meticulously and methodically while Ethan is impulsive and unpredictable, the two find rhythm as they are somehow working.

Aria looked away from her notes for a moment and noticed Ethan staring at her. He looked curious instead of his usual smirk.

"What?"she asked, feeling shy beneath his stare.

"You're different now," he said, his tone more soft than it usually is.

Aria raised an eyebrow. Are you trying to pay me a compliment?".

"Take it however you want," Ethan said with a smirk. "Just be careful not to think you're better than anyone else."

Although Aria rolled her eyes, she felt her heart flutter. She quickly lost herself in her notes, trying to ignore the odd heat in her chest.

---.

The Unexpected Encounter.

When they left the library, they didn't share the tension but it wasn't the same anymore. As they walked through the dimly lit halls, the silence was surprisingly comfortable.

So, what's your deal, Carter?" Aria asked suddenly.

Ethan glanced at her. "What do you mean?".

It's been a year since you left, and now you're back, as if nothing happened. Why?".

Ethan's jaw tensed, and for a moment he didn't answer. His voice was cautious when he finally began to talk. It's safe to say I needed some time to think things through.

Aria frowned because he feels that there is more to the story but did not push. I really hope you are ready to work as hard as us.' I will not allow you to bring me down.

Ethan smiled smugly before saying, "Don't worry Bennett". "I'll surprise you.".

Ethan paused in the parking lot with a serious look. Thanks for hanging on through this process by the way. Most people wouldn't bother.".

Aria was left surprised by this unexpected honesty. "I hope you won't regret it.

Ethan chuckled. "Goodnight, Bennett.".

Aria saw him walk away, and she was slightly confused. For the first time, she asked herself if he was more than just a smug troublemaker named Ethan Carter.