Chapter 2:Unspoken Thoughts

Alex arrived at the library, his heart beating a little faster than usual. He had spent the previous night thinking about Ethan and their upcoming meeting. The realization that he was looking forward to seeing Ethan again left him feeling both excited and anxious.

When Ethan entered the library, he immediately spotted Alex and waved. Alex returned the wave with a small smile, feeling the now-familiar flutter in his stomach.

"Hey, Alex! Ready to dive in?" Ethan asked as he set his backpack down and pulled out his notes.

"Yeah, let's do it," Alex replied, trying to focus on the project instead of the way Ethan's presence made him feel.

They spent the next hour researching and discussing their topic. As they worked, Alex found himself increasingly comfortable with Ethan. Their conversations flowed naturally, and he appreciated how Ethan listened to his ideas and contributed his own insights.

After a while, they decided to take a break. Ethan leaned back in his chair and stretched. "You know, Alex, I don't think I've ever worked on a project that's actually been this interesting."

Alex chuckled softly. "I think it's because we chose a good topic."

"Maybe," Ethan agreed, "but I also think it's because we make a good team."

Alex felt a warmth spread through him at Ethan's words. "Yeah, we do."

There was a brief silence, and Alex felt a sudden urge to ask a question that had been on his mind since their first meeting. "Ethan, can I ask you something?"

"Of course," Ethan said, turning his full attention to Alex.

"Why did you choose to work with me? I mean, we didn't really know each other before this."

Ethan smiled. "Honestly, I've seen you around and always thought you seemed interesting. You're different from most people at school, and I wanted to get to know you better."

Alex was taken aback by Ethan's straightforwardness. "I... I didn't know you noticed me."

"Well, I did," Ethan said with a shrug. "And I'm glad I did. You're a great person, Alex."

Alex felt his cheeks heat up, and he quickly looked down at his notes to hide his embarrassment. "Thanks, Ethan."

They continued their work, but Alex couldn't shake the feeling of warmth that Ethan's words had given him. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly seen and appreciated for who he was.

As they were packing up to leave, Ethan suddenly asked, "Hey, Alex, do you want to grab a coffee or something? Maybe take a break from all this research?"

Alex hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "Yeah, that sounds nice."

They left the library together and walked to a nearby café. As they sipped their drinks and talked about everything from their favorite books to their future plans, Alex realized that Ethan's company made him feel lighter and happier. The worries and fears that usually weighed him down seemed to fade away.

By the time they parted ways, Alex felt a sense of hope that he hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, he could find the courage to face his fears and embrace his true self. And perhaps Ethan would be there to support him along the way.

As he walked home, Alex found himself looking forward to their next meeting, not just for the project but for the growing connection he felt with Ethan. For the first time, the future seemed a little less daunting and a lot more promising.

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