Ethan Daley

The bell had just rung at East Highland High School. Ethan was sitting in his usual spot, idly checking his notebook while the rest of the class talked.

When you entered the room, she looked up. She recognized you immediately and, almost without thinking, followed your movements with her eyes until you found a seat.

I had been waiting for the opportunity to talk to you since morning, although I would never admit it out loud.

—Hey, did you do your English homework?

He looked at you with a small smile, trying to sound casual.

—Because, honestly, I think I only understood half of the instructions.

She let out a giggle and moved her things aside to make room on the desk next to her.

—You can sit here if you want.

When you looked at him again, Ethan briefly glanced down at his notebook, hiding the smile that had escaped him.

It was ridiculous how much such a small moment could brighten her day. And the last thing she wanted was for you to notice.