As I was taking in the scene in front of me I had actually forgotten that I wasn't supposed to be here, "Well I better get going before I get caught" It was too late as before I could take a step further to leave someone grabbed my hand and chills went through my spine, damn I'm too young to die what about my grandma who was going to take care of her and there was a new spot that just opened up that Alex told me about they had the best grilled chicken and I could take beer why now, Universe please forgive me I'm too young to die, while I was still panicking the person spoke up
"Kai, chill it's me, Ethan"
I gasped in relief as I realized it was Ethan gripping my hand. The fear that had gripped me moments ago gave way to a mixture of disbelief and excitement.
"Ethan? Is that really you?" I stammered, trying to compose myself.
He chuckled, his voice carrying a hint of mischief. "Yeah, it's me. Sorry for scaring you like that. I thought it would be fun to surprise you."
I couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh. "You definitely succeeded in surprising me, Ethan. I thought I was about to meet my untimely end."
Ethan released his grip on my hand and gave me a playful nudge. "Nah, I wouldn't let anything happen to you, buddy. I may have gotten into trouble, but I can still handle myself."
Relieved and filled with a sense of warmth, I smiled at him. "I'm glad you're okay, Ethan. But what happened? Why did you disappear like that? I've been worried sick. And what are you doing here?."
His expression turned serious, and a shadow crossed his eyes. "It's complicated, Kai. Let's just say I got caught up in some things I shouldn't have. But I'm fine now, and I am working here now" he had the audacity to laugh at me about this situation, what was funny, and since when did he start to work here?
"What things are you talking about and when did you start working here I need answers"
Ethan's gaze softened, but he shook his head adamantly. "No, Kai. This isn't your burden to bear. I appreciate your concern, but I had to figure things out on my own. It's safer that way. and besides it has been a week I have seen you around but couldn't get close to you"
I couldn't help but feel a mix of frustration and determination. "Safer? Ethan, you don't have to shoulder everything by yourself. Friends are meant to support each other. Please, let me be there for you. and a week how come I didn't notice you"
He hesitated for a moment, his eyes flickering with emotions. Finally, he sighed and gave me a small smile. "You're stubborn, you know that? Fine, if it'll give you some peace of mind, it was resolved and I'm fine now, and concerning why you haven't noticed me I dunno really, you seem like you are always in the cloud, what did you finally get yourself a girlfriend."
I nodded, grateful that he was willing to let me stay by his side, even if it was on his terms. "What girlfriend are you talking about I'm happy that you are safe and I'm sorry if I didn't notice you." Yeah, a girlfriend what I really want is a boyfriend but he doesn't know that I'm gay so *_*
Ethan's smile widened, and he ruffled my hair playfully. "Alright, partner. Let's see what trouble we can uncover. But for now, we should get out of this garden before we really do get caught."
Chuckling, we made our way out of the secret garden