In the quiet solitude of the library one afternoon, Mia found herself lost in the pages of a classic novel, unaware of the passing time. She had retreated there to escape the chaos of the bustling hallways, relishing the tranquility.
Lost in thought, Mia didn't notice Ethan approaching until he cleared his throat gently. Startled, she looked up to find him standing beside her, a small smile playing on his lips.
"Hey, Mia," Ethan greeted softly. "Mind if I join you?"
Mia blinked, caught off guard by his unexpected presence. "Oh, uh, sure," she replied, hastily closing her book. She gestured to the empty chair beside her. "Please, have a seat."
Ethan sat down, his gaze thoughtful as he studied Mia for a moment. "You know," he began slowly, "I've noticed something about you."
Mia's heart skipped a beat, unsure of where this conversation was leading. "What... what do you mean?"
Ethan hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "I mean, I've seen you around without makeup sometimes. And I have to say, you look... different."
Mia's breath caught in her throat. She had hoped to keep her past hidden, to be seen as the confident girl she pretended to be with makeup. "Different how?" she asked, trying to keep her tone casual.
Ethan leaned forward slightly, his expression earnest. "Not bad different. Just... more real, I guess. You don't need all that makeup to be noticed."
Mia felt a mix of relief and vulnerability wash over her. Ethan had seen through her carefully constructed facade, yet his words felt strangely comforting. She nodded slowly, meeting his gaze with a newfound sense of openness.
"Thanks, Ethan," she murmured softly. "It means a lot."
Ethan smiled warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Anytime, Mia."
As they returned to their respective books, Mia couldn't help but feel a weight lift off her shoulders. Ethan's acceptance of her true self was a gift she hadn't expected, sparking a glimmer of hope that perhaps she didn't need to hide behind the mask anymore.