Chapter 51

• It was Lily’s 15th birthday, and the air was thick with anticipation. She had been bubbling with excitement for weeks, counting down the days until she could celebrate with her friends and, most importantly, with Ethan. He was 16, tall and brooding, still figuring out who he was, but Lily’s constant presence was more of a burden than a joy.
• “Ethan! Come on, let’s go!” Lily’s voice rang through the halls of their high school, her bright smile grating on his nerves. She practically bounced on her toes, her long hair swaying as she skipped towards him.
• “Can’t you just hang out with your friends today?” Ethan replied, his tone dismissive as he leaned against the locker, avoiding her gaze. He felt trapped by her enthusiasm, especially after the argument with Jack the day before.