Part Sixteen: Ethan's Realization
Ethan was leaning against the wall near the school gate when he saw it—the scene that made his chest tighten and his jaw clench.
Nick and Anna were close, their lips locked in a passionate kiss, Nick's love bite clearly visible on her neck. Half the school was watching, and someone had already snapped pictures, which were being shared rapidly on social media.
For the first time, Ethan felt something unfamiliar—jealousy mixed with fear. He had always been confident, charming, and in control. But seeing Anna in Nick's arms, exposed for everyone to see, shook him.
"She's… his?" he muttered under his breath, trying to mask the pang of something deeper.
But as he watched, a strange feeling began to stir inside him. Ethan realized that this wasn't just about charm or games anymore. He cared about Anna Rosé. More than he ever thought possible. And the thought of losing her—to Nick, to anyone—was unbearable.
Ethan took a deep breath and straightened. He couldn't let his emotions control him completely, but he knew one thing: he had to fight for her heart, honestly this time.
Meanwhile, the gossip around the school exploded. Students whispered in hallways, some teasing, some impressed, and others outright gossiping about the shocking public display.
Anna, standing slightly apart from Nick, noticed Ethan's gaze. Her heart skipped a beat. She realized that Ethan's feelings might be deeper than she thought, and that the triangle of emotions was far from resolved.
Ethan's mind raced. I can't let her go. I won't play games with her anymore… I need to show her I truly care.
Nick, noticing Ethan's look from the corner of his eyes, clenched his fists. He's still in this. And now I know it's serious… I can't back down either.
The stage was set for the final acts of passion, jealousy, and love. Everyone's hearts were tangled, and the next moves would decide who Anna would ultimately choose.