Ari!

[fictionbyari]

Get to know me!

My name is Ari! She/ her. Aquarius. Fav color is pink. I love to write IN LOVE with Jack Champion/ Matt Dillon. Ask me anything! And I would love to take requests!!

Master list, More about me

Have any ideas request them!

[delicatedolly21]

he's like a walking teenage girl's wet dream

[fictionbyari]

All about me!!

Hello! Welcome to my blog! My name is Ari. I’m eighteen years old! I’m an Aquarius! I mainly write for any Jack Champion characters or Matt Dillon characters.

Hobbies: dancing, singing, writing, arts and crafts (any kind)

Men I am in love with : Jack Champion, Elvis Presley , and Matt Dillon.

[fictionbyari]

So Good to Me

(Submissive!Ethan x fem!reader | Soft aftercare | Kisses everywhere | Gentle praise | Emotional tenderness | Comfort-heavy)

Master list

You were still catching your breath when Ethan shifted—barely a twitch at first, then both arms wrapped tight around you like you were something fragile he couldn’t afford to lose.

“Baby,” he whispered, voice hoarse and so soft it almost broke your heart. “Are you okay?”

You blinked, surprised by how worried he sounded. “Ethan,” you murmured, “I should be asking you that.”

“I don’t care about me,” he said quickly. “You—you were so good to me. I just—I need to make sure you’re okay too. Please tell me.”

“I’m more than okay,” you whispered, brushing your fingers through his curls. “I’m full. Loved. Safe.”

His eyes got a little glassy at that.

And then… he kissed you.

Not just once. So many times. Soft, slow kisses to your lips, your cheeks, your jaw. Then down to your neck, your collarbone, your shoulder. He kissed you like he was learning you. Like you were sacred.

You giggled lightly when he kissed the tip of your nose.

“Ethan…”

He pulled back just enough to meet your eyes, his hand cradling your cheek like you might float away. “I want to remember how this feels. Every part of you. Every second.”

Your chest ached with how tender he was.

He kissed you again—longer this time, more sure, but still soft. There was no heat behind it. Just warmth. Just love.

“Can I get you water?” he murmured. “Or clean you up? I’ll be so gentle, I swear.”

“You’re already taking care of me,” you whispered, letting your fingers trail down his bare back.

But he shook his head.

“I want to do something,” he said, voice small but steady. “You gave me so much. I’ve never felt… safe like that. Not like this. I just wanna take care of my girl now.”

Your lips quirked. “Your girl?”

He flushed, eyes wide. “I—I mean, if that’s okay—”

“It’s perfect.”

You kissed him this time, slow and grateful, and when you pulled back, he was already leaning in for more.

“Okay,” he whispered. “You stay right here. I’m gonna get a warm rag, and water, and a hoodie for you, and—and I’ll kiss you in between every step, is that okay?”

You smiled so softly you thought your heart might break from it.

“That’s more than okay, Ethan.”

He nodded, so serious and tender, then kissed your forehead.

Then your cheek. Then your shoulder.

And again.

And again.

[fictionbyari]

Break me

Master list

Tags/ warnings: Submissive!Ethan Landry x fem!reader | Slow-burn plot to smut | Crying | Begging | Praise | Overstimulation | Aftercare

You noticed it days ago.

Ethan wasn’t himself.

He still smiled at you in the hallways, still held your hand, still sat close during movie nights—but he wasn’t really there. Something was brewing beneath his soft-spoken sweetness. Like a storm he was trying to swallow down.

You gave him space. You didn’t want to push.

But tonight, it boiled over.

You were meant to have a chill night in. A sleepover. A few snacks. Cuddling. But the moment he walked into your apartment, you could feel the tension radiating off him. His hands were shaking when he handed you your favorite drink. He dropped it halfway to the table.

“Ethan…” you said softly, kneeling to help him. “Talk to me.”

He blinked fast, looking down at the spilled drink like it had personally betrayed him.

“I’m fine.”

“No,” you said gently, touching his arm. “You’re not.”

He looked at you then — really looked at you — and something inside him just broke. His lips parted like he wanted to lie again, but his voice caught.

“I… I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” he whispered. “I—I feel like I’m going to explode.”

You stood, pulled him in close, and cupped his jaw. “What do you mean?”

His eyes welled up. “I can’t think anymore. I’m always turned on, I’m always needing you, but I—I try to be chill about it, try not to scare you off—”

“Ethan—”

“—but I can’t anymore,” he said, his voice cracking hard. “I feel like I’m gonna lose my mind if I don’t—if you don’t—”

He couldn’t even finish the sentence.

Your heart squeezed. He looked so young in that moment. Vulnerable. Desperate.

You brought his hand to your chest, let him feel your heartbeat. “Do you want me to take care of you?”

He nodded. Swallowed. Then whispered: “I want you to break me.”

That was all it took.

You kissed him deep, slow, commanding. And he melted into it—like he’d been waiting for permission to fall apart.

“Bedroom. Now,” you whispered. “Strip and get on the bed.”

He obeyed instantly.

And you followed, already planning how thoroughly you were going to ruin him.

💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋

Ethan was already trembling by the time you stepped into the bedroom. He was sitting on the edge of your mattress, shirtless, flushed, eyes wide and glassy with anticipation. He still had his pants on, but his hands were fidgeting in his lap like he didn’t know what to do with them.

“You’re being such a good boy,” you said softly, walking over and climbing into his lap. “Already shaking for me?”

He whimpered, nodding.

You kissed him slowly, running your fingers through his curls, grinding down just slightly into his lap—and he choked on a gasp.

“P-please,” he whispered, already breathless. “I can’t—I need you so bad, it hurts.”

You kissed along his throat. “Then beg for it.”

He looked up at you with wide, teary eyes. “Please ruin me. Please touch me. I want to cry for you. I want to be yours. I—I want you to make me forget everything else.”

You palmed him through his jeans. His hips bucked.

“Sensitive already?” you teased. “Such a needy little thing.”

“Yes,” he sobbed. “I’m yours—just yours—please, I can’t take it anymore—please—”

You eased him onto his back, undressing him slowly, teasing your fingers along his thighs, until he was bare and dripping, cock flushed and twitching. He looked wrecked before you even touched him properly.

You wrapped your hand around him.

Ethan cried out — loud, high, raw. His whole body jolted.

“Oh my god—I can’t—please—please—”

He was already leaking, hips twitching, tears spilling freely down his cheeks.

You leaned in, kissed him hard, and whispered, “Come for me, baby.”

He broke.

He sobbed through it, gasping and begging as he came fast and hard in your hand, hips jerking helplessly, voice completely gone.

But even after, when he was shaking and soaking in overstimulation, he whispered, “Again. Please. Don’t stop.”

You climbed up his body, holding him close, and stroked his hair gently.

“You did so good,” you whispered against his lips. “My good boy. So pretty when you cry.”

And he just nodded, face buried in your chest, still breathless, still begging for more.

Later:

He was still shaking.

Ethan lay beneath you, skin flushed and damp, pupils blown wide, lips parted as he tried to catch his breath. His chest rose and fell in shallow gasps, and his hands trembled where they gripped the sheets like he didn’t know what else to hold onto.

You leaned over him, kissed his jaw, and gently wiped a tear from his cheek.

“You’re okay, baby,” you whispered, soothing. “You did so good for me.”

His throat worked around a swallow. “I—I’m not okay.”

You froze. “What do you mean?”

“I’m not okay until I’m inside you,” he choked out, voice raw. “Please—please let me stay there. I need it so bad. Please ride me. Don’t make me wait. I can’t wait—”

You looked down. He was already hard again.

His cock was flushed, leaking, twitching against his stomach—so sensitive it had to hurt, but Ethan didn’t care. His hips were shifting helplessly, chasing touch.

“Oh, Ethan…” you breathed. “You’re completely gone, aren’t you?”

He whimpered, nodding. “Want to feel you. Want to be in you. I won’t last—I know I won’t—but please, please, let me come again inside you. I’ll cry for you. I’ll beg. Just don’t stop…”

You straddled his hips slowly, and he let out the most shattered little sob. His hands reached for you instantly, clutching your waist like you might disappear.

When you sank down onto him, he screamed.

“F-fuck! Oh my god—oh my god—oh my god—”

You rode him slow and deep, grinding your hips in smooth, careful motions, letting him feel everything. Letting him be completely helpless underneath you.

Tears streamed down his face.

“You’re too good,” he sobbed. “You’re too tight, you’re warm, you’re everything—I love being yours—”

His hands slid up your back like he needed to touch every inch of you. His lips brushed your collarbone, your throat, but he couldn’t form words anymore—just choked little cries and shattered gasps.

“You’re gonna come again for me, baby?” you whispered into his hair.

“I—I can’t—” he moaned. “I’m already—oh god—please—please don’t stop—I wanna stay in you—don’t make me leave—don’t make me leave—”

“Shh, you don’t have to,” you whispered, wrapping your arms around him and pulling him up with you so he was sitting in your lap, cock still buried inside. “You can stay. I’ve got you.”

He came again like that—inside you, arms wrapped tight around your body, face buried in your neck, sobbing your name as his whole body shook. You felt him twitching inside, warm and deep, and he just kept crying, whispering “thank you, thank you, thank you” like a broken prayer.

And afterward, when you kissed his wet cheeks and laid him down gently, you held him close and let him fall apart all over again.

“You’re safe,” you whispered. “I’m here. I’ve got you.”

Ethan clung to you like a lifeline, nose buried in your neck, tears soaking your skin.

“I love you,” he whispered hoarsely.

[fictionbyari]

New girl , same heartbeat

Chapter ten : say it out loud

Master list

Chapter one,Chapter two, chapter three , chapter four, chapter five , chapter six, chapter seven , chapter eight, chapter nine, chapter ten!

You guys, I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the love and support. This is the last chapter, and I am so happy that y’all have liked it just as much as I loved writing it!!! 

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

The next morning, there’s no party. No loud music, no flashing lights, no distractions. Just the quiet hum of campus life on a sleepy Saturday.

You meet Ethan under the same tree you first sat at with the friend group weeks ago—before you knew how easily someone like him could take up space in your chest without trying.

He’s already there, leaning against the trunk, hands in his pockets like always. When he sees you, he smiles. That soft, reserved one that’s become your favorite. The one that says you’re here, and that’s enough.

You sit beside him, bumping your shoulder into his.

“You ready?” he asks.

You nod. “You?”

He pretends to consider it. “No. But I want to be.”

You both laugh, and then you sit for a moment, letting the nerves settle before you head to the coffee shop just off campus where Chad, Mindy, Anika, and a couple others are already waiting.

—

The second you walk in, Chad waves you over. “Hey, lovebirds—finally showed up.”

You freeze mid-step.

Ethan blinks. “What?”

Mindy smirks into her iced coffee. “Yeah, we knew. We’ve known.”

Anika nods, grinning. “You two really thought you were subtle? Ethan, you’ve literally been glowing like a golden retriever in love for a week.”

Chad gestures between you. “You’re holding hands right now.”

You glance down—sure enough, you are.

You feel your cheeks heat, but instead of pulling away, you hold tighter.

Ethan looks at them, then at you, and says, clear and calm, “Yeah. We’re together.”

The table doesn’t erupt like you thought it might. No screaming, no teasing.

Just a wave of soft smiles and relieved looks.

Mindy leans forward. “We’re happy for you. Seriously.”

Chad nods. “It’s about time.”

Ethan gives you a small, sideways smile like this was the last piece falling into place.

—

The rest of the day is quiet. Comfortable. You and Ethan don’t go back to hiding or whispering across the room. You sit beside each other openly. Laugh together. Share a milkshake at lunch without anyone commenting on it like it’s breaking news.

You’d expected a big moment. Some dramatic reveal.

But what you get instead is peace.

And maybe that’s better.

That night, you and Ethan walk across campus under a fading sunset. The sky is streaked with gold and pink, and the air carries that almost-summer feeling—like everything’s just beginning.

“I’m glad we said it out loud,” Ethan says.

You look over. “Me too.”

He pauses. “You know what scares me?”

You shake your head.

“That this is real. That it’s not just a moment or a phase. That this is… something.”

Your heart skips. “Why does that scare you?”

He stops walking, turns to face you. “Because I don’t want to mess it up.”

You reach up, fingers brushing his cheek. “You won’t.”

He leans into your hand. “Promise?”

“I promise.”

There’s a beat of silence before he whispers, “I love you.”

It’s not dramatic. Not shouted. Just true.

You don’t freeze. You don’t panic. You smile—soft and full—and say it back like it was always meant to be said.

“I love you too.”

And this time, nothing’s unspoken

But when you look into his eyes, all you see is pure love, and for the first time and ever in your life, you thought this is the man I want to be with.

So this is what true love is, you thought.

[fictionbyari]

New girl, same heartbeat

Chapter nine: Things left unsaid

Master list

Chapter one,chapter two, chapter three, chapter four, chapter five, chapter six, chapter seven, chapter eight,chapter nine.

You’d always thought a moment like that—the moment, the one that changes everything—would come with fireworks. A confession in the rain. A grand gesture. Something out of a movie.

Instead, it was pancakes.

Black coffee.

And Ethan Landry looking at you like you were the only thing in the world that made sense.

That was five days ago.

Five days of walking the line between something and nothing. Between almost and already.

No one else knows. It’s been a quiet thing, tucked into side glances and shared smirks and the kind of texts that don’t mean much unless you know the context behind them.

But the thing is—Ethan Landry was never loud. He wasn’t the guy who yelled about how he felt. He showed it. In the small, careful ways that meant more than words.

And now, those little things are starting to build into something heavier. Something unspoken that’s getting harder and harder to keep quiet.

—

It’s Friday. Again.

You’re in your dorm mirror, finishing your makeup when your phone buzzes.

Ethan:

Still want me to meet you at the party?

You:

Only if you still want to be my escape plan.

Ethan:

Always.

You smile, tucking your phone into your back pocket.

—

When you arrive, the house is already buzzing with low music and the steady hum of conversation. Lights are dim, and the place smells like too many colognes and popcorn.

You spot Chad first, then Mindy, already mid-argument over something ridiculous, and finally Ethan—standing near the kitchen, drink in hand, hoodie sleeves pushed up, hair slightly messy like he’d been running his fingers through it on the walk over.

You don’t make a scene. You just walk over, and he looks at you like he was waiting for you all night.

“You made it,” he says softly.

“Wouldn’t miss it,” you say, just as soft.

You both stay near the wall for a while, talking quietly while the party hums around you. It’s easy, the way things always are with him. But underneath it—beneath the jokes and the glances—there’s tension now. Not bad tension. Just… built-up energy. A feeling like something’s coming, and neither of you knows how to say it out loud yet.

Then Chad barrels over, already half-tipsy, slinging an arm around Ethan.

“Dude. You’ve been MIA all week. You in some kind of weird reclusive phase or what?”

Ethan shrugs. “Just busy.”

Chad squints at him. “Busy, huh? Is that what we’re calling it now?” He looks between the two of you. “Or are you two finally—wait—no way—”

“Okay,” you cut in, laughing a little too fast, “don’t make it weird.”

Chad throws his hands up. “Hey, just saying. I see things.”

You roll your eyes and Ethan just chuckles, pulling you a little closer by your wrist when Chad disappears into the crowd again.

“Too close?” he murmurs.

You shake your head. “He’ll forget what he said in ten minutes.”

“But you won’t.”

There’s a pause.

You look up at him. “No. I won’t.”

And that’s when something in the air shifts. You can feel it—this quiet, powerful weight pressing into the silence between you.

—

Later, you’re out on the back porch with him. The night is cool, stars scattered above, and the party noise muffled by the walls behind you.

You sit on the steps, side by side, not quite touching but closer than friends should be.

Ethan’s voice is low when he finally speaks.

“I’ve been thinking a lot lately.”

“About?”

He swallows. “You. Me. That morning.”

Your breath catches slightly.

“I don’t want to keep dancing around this,” he says, finally turning to face you. “I like you. A lot. I think I’ve liked you since the first time you sat with us and didn’t pretend to be anything you weren’t.”

You hold his gaze. “Then why haven’t you said anything?”

He exhales, slow and shaky. “Because I was scared. I don’t get things like this. Things that feel good and easy. Things that feel… real.”

You reach for his hand, and his fingers close around yours like second nature.

“I was scared too,” you say softly. “But not because of you. Because I didn’t want this to be something that fades the second it’s real.”

“It won’t,” he says, firm this time. “It is real.”

You nod, heart racing.

“I want to tell them,” he adds. “The group. Everyone. Not because we have to, but because I don’t want to keep acting like you’re just someone I sit next to at parties. You’re more than that.”

Your chest tightens—in the best way.

You squeeze his hand. “Okay. Tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow,” he repeats, smiling.

You both sit back again, quiet, watching the sky.

This time, the silence isn’t heavy.

It’s warm.

Peaceful.

Honest.

[fictionbyari]

New girl , same heartbeat

Chapter eight:

The morning after

Master list

Chapter one, chapter two, chapter three, chapter four, chapter five, chapter six, chapter seven,chapter eight

Sunlight filters through your window and dances across your pillow, soft and warm, but it’s the flutter in your chest—not the light—that pulls you out of sleep.

Your brain catches up to your heart before your eyes even open.

Ethan.

The music.

The way he’d looked at you like he was seeing you for the first time—and somehow only you.

The kiss that had been hesitant, almost uncertain… but unforgettable.

You sit up in bed slowly, biting back a smile as it all rushes back. It doesn’t feel like something that happened at a party. It feels… heavier than that. Realer.

Your phone buzzes on your nightstand.

Ethan:

Hey. Are you up?😳

You reply immediately, heartbeat speeding up.

You:

Yeah. You okay?🤨

A few seconds pass, then:

Ethan:

Wanna meet up? Just us.🤓

You don’t need to think about it.

You:

Tell me where and I’m there.😝

—

He’s already there when you arrive—a quiet fountain tucked behind the science building. His hoodie is on, hood up, hands shoved deep into his pockets like he’s trying to fold in on himself.

He looks up the second he hears your footsteps.

“Hey,” he says, softly.

“Hey.”

You sit beside him on the bench, your knee barely brushing his. There’s silence, but it doesn’t feel like pressure. It feels like breath—calm, natural.

“I’ve been thinking about last night,” he starts. “A lot.”

You nod. “Me too.”

He glances at you, eyes a little unsure. “Was that okay? What happened?”

You smile gently. “I kissed you, Ethan.”

He looks down, but you see the corners of his mouth twitch upward. “Right.”

“Was it okay for you?” you ask.

He nods immediately. “Yeah. Yeah, it was… better than okay.”

His eyes finally meet yours. “I’ve never really… liked someone like this before. I thought I had, but now—now I know I haven’t.”

The honesty in his voice makes your breath catch.

“Me neither,” you admit.

You sit with that for a while. Then Ethan shifts forward, elbows on his knees.

“So,” he says, voice a little lighter, “want to go get breakfast? Nothing fancy—I was thinking bagels. Coffee. Something quiet.”

You smile. “That sounds perfect.”

—

He takes you to a tiny corner café not far from campus—a hole-in-the-wall kind of place you’d never noticed before. No neon signs or trendy decor, just a handwritten chalkboard menu, a sleepy barista with earbuds in, and the comforting smell of cinnamon and coffee grounds.

“This place is kind of a secret,” Ethan says as he opens the door for you. “It’s where I come when I don’t want to think.”

“Is that a warning?” you tease. “Should I pretend I’m not here?”

He grins. “No. Today, I want to think about you.”

Your cheeks flush, and you step inside, letting the warm air wrap around you.

You both order—he gets a plain bagel with cream cheese and a black coffee, you get a toasted one with butter and a chai latte. There’s only one table open by the window, so you slide into the booth, facing each other.

“So,” he says as you unwrap your bagel, “how do you feel about breakfast being a personality test?”

You raise an eyebrow. “What does mine say?”

He pretends to think deeply. “Toasted butter bagel… warm, classic, doesn’t try too hard. Comforting. Stable.”

You smirk. “Stable? That’s boring.”

“No, it’s reliable. You’re the kind of person someone could build a routine around.”

You laugh. “Okay, Mr. Black Coffee and No-Topping Bagel. What does that say about you?”

“I’m chaotic and barely functioning,” he deadpans.

You nearly choke on your chai.

He smiles when you laugh. You can see it in the way his shoulders relax—the way something inside him settles when he’s around you. It’s not loud or dramatic. It’s just easy.

“So,” you say, peeling your bagel in slow bites, “was this your plan after last night? Take me to your secret spot and charm me with sarcasm and carbs?”

“Honestly? I didn’t plan anything. I just… wanted to see you again this morning. In the daylight. When things weren’t spinning and loud.”

You nod, heart thudding quietly. “I’m glad you did.”

He rests his chin on his hand, looking at you. Really looking. “I want to get to know you. Not just at parties or when we’re with everyone else. Just you.”

You smile. “Then this is a good start.”

The conversation drifts, slower this time. Softer. You talk about favorite breakfast foods, weird dreams, your first impressions of Blackmore, and how neither of you fully feels like you belong yet—but maybe that’s okay. Maybe you don’t have to belong everywhere. Just with someone.

And right now, that someone is sitting across from you with a half-eaten bagel, wearing a hoodie too big and a look in his eyes that’s hard to put into words.

You don’t say much after that. You don’t need to. The warmth between you speaks for itself.

[fictionbyari]

Can you make Ethan Landry x male reader, Ethan and male reader were best friends since the 1st grade, Ethan developed a crush on male reader since the 5th grade. Ethan and male reader then became college roommates

Roomates & Revelations

Ethan Landry x male reader

Oneshot

Master list

Tags/ warnings: Ethan Landry x male reader, slow burn, kissing , confession, and childhood friends to lovers.

You and Ethan Landry had been best friends for as long as either of you could remember. Since the first grade, when you stood up for him after a group of kids teased him for his slightly crooked front tooth, it had always been the two of you. Whether it was trading Pokémon cards during recess or sneaking extra cookies during lunch, you were a package deal.

Through elementary school, middle school, and then high school, you were practically attached at the hip. You went to each other’s birthdays, had inside jokes that made no sense to anyone else, and pulled your first all-nighter together cramming for a science final neither of you passed.

But somewhere along the way—Ethan realized his feelings for you weren’t just platonic.

He remembered the moment it clicked. Fifth grade. You had tripped in gym class, and instead of laughing like everyone else, he’d dropped to his knees, worried you were hurt. When you laughed it off and smiled at him, his chest did something weird. He didn’t understand it then. But as you both grew older, the feelings only deepened.

By high school, Ethan knew exactly what those feelings were. He liked you. Loved you, maybe. But he never said anything. You were his best friend—the most important person in his life—and he was too scared to lose that.

So when you both got into the same college and agreed to room together, Ethan figured it would be more of the same. Safe. Comfortable. Close.

But it was so much worse. Or better. Depending on the day.

Living together was easy… painfully easy. Too easy. The two of you slipped into a rhythm like you’d done it a million times. Sharing snacks, late-night study sessions, teasing each other about everything from how you folded your laundry to your choice of ramen flavor.

What Ethan hadn’t expected was how much harder it would be to hide his feelings when you were brushing your teeth three feet away or walking around shirtless on hot nights. Every glance, every laugh, every moment alone with you chipped away at his carefully built wall.

And you? You weren’t blind. You’d caught the way he sometimes looked at you when he thought you weren’t paying attention. You felt it in the way his hand lingered just a little longer when he passed you something. Or how he always seemed to put himself between you and anything remotely dangerous.

You just… didn’t want to assume. What if you were wrong?

One night, after a horror movie marathon—something Ethan insisted on even though he hated jump scares—you were both lying on your beds, the lights low, the room quiet except for the hum of your small fan.

“That movie was trash,” you muttered, still half-laughing at Ethan’s earlier scream.

“You screamed louder than me,” Ethan shot back, tossing a pillow across the room.

You caught it and grinned. “You grabbed my arm like a terrified child.”

“I was protecting you!” he said, laughing—but there was a nervous edge in his voice.

Then silence settled over the room again. It wasn’t awkward. Just… tense. Like something was hanging in the air.

Ethan sat up slowly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Hey… can I tell you something?”

You sat up too, heart suddenly thudding. “Of course.”

He was quiet for a moment, eyes fixed on the floor. Then he said softly, “I think I’ve been in love with you since the fifth grade.”

Your breath caught.

“I didn’t want to ruin anything,” he continued quickly, eyes darting to yours, “but living with you—being around you all the time—it just makes it harder to keep pretending.”

You were stunned. Not because it was unexpected… but because hearing it out loud felt like something in your chest finally falling into place.

You stood up, walked over to his bed, and sat beside him.

“Ethan,” you said gently, “do you know how many times I almost kissed you in high school?”

He blinked. “Wait—what?”

You smiled, heart racing. “You idiot. I’ve liked you too. I just didn’t think you’d ever feel the same.”

He looked at you like the world had just flipped upside down. “Seriously?”

You nodded. “Seriously.”

And then, because it had taken far too long already, you leaned in and kissed him. His lips were soft, tentative at first—like he couldn’t believe this was actually happening—but soon he was kissing you back like he’d been waiting forever.

When you pulled back, he was grinning, cheeks flushed.

“I can’t believe this,” he whispered. “I thought I was gonna be stuck as your hopelessly pining roommate forever.”

“Well,” you said, resting your forehead against his, “you’re still my roommate. Just… not so hopelessly pining anymore.”

And for the first time in years, Ethan didn’t feel like he had to hide anymore.

[fictionbyari]

Taste like heaven

Ethan Landry x reader

Tags/ warnings: virgin!Ethan Landry, smut ,oral [f. receiving] | first time ,praise ,messy ,needy + worshipping Ethan

Master list

It started soft.

Just like Ethan always was with you.

You were cuddled up in his bed, the dorm lights off, only the soft glow of his desk lamp making little halos in the room. Ethan was lying beside you, propped up on one elbow, nervous eyes flitting between your face and your lips like he was debating something silently.

“Can I…” he started, voice barely above a whisper, “can I touch you more? I mean, I want to. If you want. I just…”

You smiled, tilting your face toward him and brushing your nose against his.

“I want you to.”

Ethan swallowed hard, his cheeks already flushed. He was still in that breathless, unsure place with you—where every kiss felt like a miracle and every time you touched him, he looked like he might fall apart.

His hands were shaking just a little when they slid under your shirt, fingertips brushing your skin like he was afraid he’d break you. But the moment you let out a soft sigh and arched into his touch, something in him changed.

He kissed you deeper. Hungrier. More desperate.

“You’re always so soft,” he murmured, breath hot against your neck as he kissed down the slope of your collarbone. “You always smell so good—feel so good—”

He didn’t even realize he was grinding his hips against the mattress until you reached down to still him.

“You’re needy, huh?” you teased, lips brushing his ear.

Ethan whimpered. Honest to god whimpered. “I—I can’t help it.”

You smiled and guided his hand lower, under the waistband of your shorts.

“Then why don’t you do something about it?”

He froze for a second. “Wait, do you—do you mean…”

“Yeah, baby. Want you to taste me.”

Ethan blinked like you’d just handed him a ticket to heaven.

His voice cracked. “I’ve… never done that before. But I want to. I really wanna learn.”

You pushed your shorts down and lay back slowly, completely bare, legs parted just enough to tease.

“Then come here, Ethan. Let me teach you.”

He moved fast—awkward and a little clumsy, like his brain was short-circuiting—but the second he settled between your thighs, he just froze.

Not in fear. In awe.

“…Holy shit.”

His voice was reverent.

You giggled softly, stroking his curls. “It’s okay, baby. Just start slow.”

He leaned in and gave a tentative lick, eyes fluttering shut immediately.

And then—

“Oh my god.”

He groaned it. From his soul.

“You okay?” you asked, a little breathless already.

Ethan looked up at you, lips already shiny, pupils blown wide.

“You taste… you taste so good, I—I can’t even…”

He trailed off, already going back in.

It started slow—curious, worshipful little licks—but it turned into something messy so fast you could barely breathe.

Ethan had both hands gripping your thighs like he was afraid you’d disappear. His tongue worked in sloppy, desperate motions, licking into you like a man starved.

He moaned into your pussy. Repeatedly. Like he was addicted.

“F-fuck,” he gasped, “you’re—this is—God—”

You were panting, moaning softly, hips twitching under his grip, but it only spurred him on.

“Feels good?” he asked, voice wrecked, eyes glassy.

“So good, Ethan,” you gasped. “You’re so good at this—”

That did it.

He whined, grabbing your thighs harder and burying his face even deeper, tongue working frantically now—messy and wet and perfect.

He had no rhythm, no plan, just this frantic need to make you come, to taste everything you had to give him.

“G-god—wanna do this all the time,” he babbled, eyes rolling a little as he pulled your clit into his mouth. “Wanna live here—”

You nearly screamed. “Ethan—fuck—don’t stop—”

He didn’t. Couldn’t.

He was shaking, hips rutting helplessly into the bed below him, tongue working like he needed your pleasure to survive.

When you finally came — loud, shaking, thighs clamping around his head — Ethan moaned into you, like he was the one coming, like just making you fall apart was enough to ruin him.

Even after, he didn’t move.

He stayed there, licking you through your aftershocks, hands stroking your thighs, nose nuzzling gently against your skin.

“You okay down there?” you giggled, breathless.

Ethan pulled back just enough to rest his head against your inner thigh. His lips were red, chin soaked, eyes dazed.

“…I think I’m in love with your pussy.”

You burst out laughing. “Yeah?”

He nodded seriously. “Like, I might actually cry if I can’t do that again.”

“You can do it again, baby,” you purred, stroking his hair. “Anytime you want.”

And the way Ethan looked up at you?

Like you’d just promised him heaven?

Yeah.

You were so screwed.

And so was he.

[fictionbyari]

New girl , same heart beat

Master list

Chapter one, chapter two, chapter three, chapter four, chapter five , chapter six , chapter seven

Chapter Seven: Breaking Point

You don’t care.

Ethan’s hands are warm against your waist, his forehead almost touching yours. Every so often his fingers brush lightly against your side, like he’s still nervous. Like he’s still holding back.

You want to tell him he doesn’t have to.

You want to tell him he can let go with you.

But you don’t know how to say it.

Not yet.

Instead, you just stay there, breathing him in, letting your heart race, feeling his do the same under your fingertips.

At some point, Mindy walks by with Chad, both of them smirking obnoxiously, but neither of them says anything. For once, they seem willing to leave you both alone.

It’s just you and Ethan.

And the space between you that’s getting smaller and smaller.

“You’re really bad at dancing,” you tease softly, just to break the tension.

Ethan laughs quietly, a little breathless. “Yeah, well. I don’t usually have a reason to try.”

You look up at him, and for once, he doesn’t look away.

Your chest tightens.

The way he’s looking at you—like you’re something he’s been wanting for a long time but didn’t think he could have—it almost hurts.

And that’s when you realize:

If you wait for him to make the first move, you might be waiting forever.

So you do something reckless.

You close the last inch of space between you and rest your head lightly against his chest.

Ethan freezes for a second—like he can’t believe you did that—then he slowly, slowly, relaxes. His arms wrap tighter around you, pulling you closer until there’s no room for doubt. No space left to hide in.

You hear his heartbeat—it’s racing just as fast as yours.

“Hey,” he murmurs after a minute, voice rough.

You tilt your head up to look at him.

He’s staring down at you like he’s memorizing your face. Like if he blinks, he’s afraid you’ll disappear.

“I really like you,” he says, so quietly you almost don’t hear it.

Your breath catches.

“I—” His voice shakes a little. He swallows hard, like he’s forcing himself to keep going. “I have for a while. I just… didn’t know how to tell you without screwing it up.”

You stare at him, heart pounding, mouth suddenly dry.

But you don’t need time to think.

You don’t need to question it.

Because you already know.

You’ve known for a while too.

“I like you too,” you whisper.

Ethan’s eyes widen slightly, like he wasn’t expecting you to actually say it.

Like a part of him didn’t think he deserved to hear it.

Then, slowly, like he’s giving you time to pull away, Ethan leans in.

You can feel his breath against your skin.

He’s close—so close you can count the freckles dusting his nose.

You could meet him halfway.

You could wait for him to be brave enough.

You don’t wait.

You close the gap yourself, pressing your lips gently to his.

At first, Ethan’s too stunned to move. Then he’s kissing you back—tentative at first, then with more certainty, more feeling. Like he’s been waiting for this for a long time.

It’s soft.

It’s careful.

It’s everything.

When you finally pull away, both of you a little breathless, Ethan presses his forehead against yours and lets out a shaky laugh.

“Told you I’m bad at this,” he mumbles.

You smile. “You’re not.”

And for the first time tonight, you both believe it.

You found something real here.

Something worth falling into.

And you’re not letting go.

[fictionbyari]

hi gorgeous!!! so this is a smut request…

i was wondering if you could write something about non ghostface!ethan landry X fem!reader, where reader is just sooooo into him that she finally got her chance to riding him and he is losing his mind that she’s taking his virginity like sobbing for her? make him a big mess im begging youuu

and also he says something like “oh my f- god… i ca- i cant… please please please please”

Stay inside me

One shot!

Tags/ warning: Not gf Ethan,SMUT!, ridding, begging, cock warming,submissive Ethan ,and sweet aftercare !

Master list

You always knew Ethan was shy — all wide brown eyes and soft stutters, like just being around you was enough to scramble his whole brain.

You liked it. You loved it.

And you knew he wanted you.

God, the way he’d look at you when he thought you weren’t paying attention — like you were something he didn’t even think he was allowed to want.

But tonight? Tonight you weren’t gonna let him wonder anymore.

Tonight he was yours.

💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋

You kissed him first, slow and deep, and you felt the way he gasped against your mouth, his whole body tense like he didn’t know where to put his hands, terrified to mess it up.

“It’s okay, baby,” you whispered against his lips. “Just let me take care of you.”

The way he nodded — so fast, so desperate — it made your heart squeeze.

You pushed him gently back onto your bed, straddling his hips. His hands flailed for a second before settling, trembling, on your thighs. His face was so red it almost looked feverish, and you could feel how hard he was under you, already leaking into his boxers.

“You’re so pretty, Ethan,” you murmured, rocking your hips slowly against him. He whimpered. Honest-to-god whimpered, like a sound he couldn’t control.(so hot)

“I— I’ve never—” he started, voice breaking.

“I know,” you said, smiling down at him. “I’m honored to be your first, baby.”

The way his eyes widened — like you’d just handed him the entire world — nearly broke you.

When you slid his boxers down, he whimpered again, covering his face with his hands like he was embarrassed to be this hard already, to be so clearly aching for you. You had to pry his hands away gently, kissing his knuckles until he let you see him.

“Don’t hide from me, Ethan,” you whispered, voice sweet but firm. “I want to see all of you.”

He nodded, biting his lip so hard it looked painful.

And when you finally guided him into you, slowly sinking down, inch by inch—

Ethan lost it.

His mouth dropped open in a silent cry, his hands flying to grip your hips like he needed something, anything, to anchor himself.

“Oh my f- god,” he gasped, voice shattering into a whimper. “I ca— I can’t— I can’t— please, please, please, please—”

He was sobbing. His body shook under you, tears spilling down his flushed cheeks, chest heaving like he couldn’t even breathe through how good it felt.

“You’re doing so good for me, Ethan,” you soothed, stroking his curls back from his sweaty forehead. “You’re making me feel so good, baby.”

“Feels—feels too good,” he cried, hips jerking helplessly up into you, chasing the feeling like he couldn’t help himself. “You’re— you’re so warm, you’re so— I— I love you—”

The words tumbled out so fast it was like he didn’t even realize he’d said them.

You froze for a second — your heart bursting — before leaning down to kiss him, messy and deep.

“I love you too, Ethan,” you whispered against his lips. “You’re mine now.”

That broke him even more. He clung to you with trembling arms, body wracked with desperate sobs, begging without words as you rocked your hips gently, letting him feel every second, every inch of you wrapped around him.

He came fast, overwhelmed, broken open under you, gasping out your name like a prayer. But he didn’t stop holding you even after — arms wrapped tight around your waist, face buried in your chest, sniffling and mumbling tiny, broken things you could barely hear.

“Please don’t leave—please—”

“I’m not going anywhere, baby,” you promised, kissing his forehead, feeling him shudder and finally relax against you. “You’re safe. You’re mine.”

And Ethan?

Ethan clung to you like you were his whole world.

Because to him — you were.

Ethan was still trembling under you, his nails digging little half-moons into your hips as he sobbed through the aftershocks, still buried deep inside you.

You shifted slightly, meaning to pull off and clean him up— but the second you moved, Ethan whimpered, a high, broken sound, and grabbed you even tighter.

“N-no—no, please—don’t,” he gasped, tears still slipping down his flushed cheeks. “Please, stay—stay on me, stay with me—please—”

His voice cracked halfway through the sentence, turning into another desperate whine, and you immediately stilled.

“Okay, baby,” you whispered, cradling his face between your hands, brushing his tears away with your thumbs. “I’m not going anywhere. I promise.”

He nodded frantically, still clinging to you like you were the only thing keeping him alive. His cock was still twitching weakly inside you, oversensitive but desperate to stay connected.

You leaned down and kissed him, slow and deep, letting him feel how much you loved him. He whimpered against your mouth, hips giving tiny needy thrusts even though he was clearly exhausted and overstimulated.

“You did so good for me, Ethan,” you murmured when you finally pulled back to breathe. “My sweet boy. My perfect boy.”

Ethan shuddered so hard it made the bed creak, his lip wobbling again like he was about to start crying all over.

“You—you’re not gonna leave, right?” he whispered, voice so small, so scared it broke your heart.

“I’m yours, Ethan,” you said firmly, kissing every inch of his tear-streaked face. “I’m staying. I’m right here. You’re safe with me, baby.”

He nodded again, breathing shaky, and finally started to calm down a little, though he still refused to let you lift your hips or pull out of him.

You stayed like that, connected, bodies pressed together, his arms locked around your waist, his face buried against your neck, breathing you in like he needed you to survive.

When his breathing finally evened out a little, you started stroking his hair, running your fingers through the damp curls sticking to his forehead.

“You’re so good for me, baby,” you whispered. “You’re so beautiful, Ethan. I’m so proud of you.”

He whimpered at that, a soft, wrecked little sound, hips giving one last weak little buck against you before going still again.

“You wanna get cleaned up, sweetheart?” you asked gently, kissing the crown of his head. “I’ll take care of you.”

He shook his head immediately, tightening his arms around you.

“Stay,” he mumbled against your skin. “Just… stay like this. Please. I wanna feel you.”

You smiled softly, heart breaking with how sweet he was, how much he needed you.

“Okay, baby,” you whispered. “I’m not moving. You’re doing so good.”

You stayed like that for a long time, whispering little praises into his hair, running your hands over his back, his arms, his hips, letting him feel your touch everywhere.

Ethan was boneless under you, completely wrecked and completely yours, occasionally letting out soft little whines or whispers of your name like he was afraid you’d disappear if he stopped.

When he finally, finally loosened his death grip on you just a little, you kissed his flushed cheeks and said, “Let’s get you cleaned up, okay? I’ll still stay close. Promise.”

He let out a tiny broken sound — somewhere between a whimper and a sigh — but nodded.

You were so careful with him, cleaning him gently with warm cloths, murmuring praise the entire time, kissing every new tear that slipped free. He was still hard even after he came, still trembling, still needy, and when you tucked him into your chest afterward he clung again immediately, a soft, broken “love you” muffled against your skin.

“I love you too, baby,” you whispered back, wrapping him up in your arms, keeping him warm, keeping him safe.

And Ethan, your sweet, messy, beautiful boy, finally let himself fall asleep — still clinging to you, still connected, still yours.

[fictionbyari]

Please give me request i have no ideas!!! Pleazeeeeee 😭😭😭

[fictionbyari]

New girl , same heart beat

Chapter Six: Closer Than Ever

Master list

Chapter one , chapter two, chapter three, chapter four , chapter five ,chapter six

The house feels louder when you step back inside, almost like the universe is mocking you for daring to think you could have a real moment with Ethan.

You spot him immediately. He’s standing off to the side now, Chad animatedly talking his ear off about something, but Ethan’s not really listening. His eyes flicker to you, just for a second, and your heart flips.

Mindy bumps your shoulder. “You gonna keep standing there like a lovesick idiot, or are you gonna do something about it?”

You roll your eyes, but your cheeks burn. “What exactly do you want me to do?”

She grins mischievously. “Talk to him. Dance with him. Drag him somewhere private. I don’t know, literally anything that isn’t just staring.”

You glance back over at Ethan. He’s leaning against the wall now, arms crossed, looking effortlessly out of place among the chaos of the party. He catches you staring and quickly looks down at his shoes, a small, nervous smile tugging at his lips.

Screw it.

You grab two cups from the counter—one for you, one for him—and make your way over before you can psych yourself out.

Ethan notices you approaching, standing up a little straighter. Chad starts to say something, but when he sees you, he just smirks and melts into the crowd, giving you two some space.

Smart move.

You hold out a cup. “Truce?” you tease lightly.

Ethan huffs a soft laugh, taking it. His fingers brush against yours again—on purpose this time. “Truce,” he agrees.

For a moment, you just stand there, sipping your drinks, the energy between you somehow both comfortable and unbearably tense at the same time.

Then Ethan shifts closer, just enough that you can feel the warmth radiating off him even through the noise and bodies around you.

“I’m sorry,” he says suddenly, his voice low so only you can hear.

You blink. “For what?”

“For… earlier. I didn’t mean to make it weird.” His eyes meet yours, and for once, he doesn’t look away. “I just—” He cuts himself off, swallowing hard. “You make it really hard for me to think straight sometimes.”

Your heart stutters.

“I make you nervous?” you ask, trying to keep your voice steady.

He lets out a breathy laugh, almost embarrassed. “Yeah. You do.”

The song changes—something slower now, still loud but different. The lights dim just a little. Around you, people are pairing off, some dancing, some just swaying lazily to the beat.

You could ask him to dance.

You could walk away.

You could stay frozen like this forever, pretending you don’t know exactly what you want.

You choose the first option.

“Dance with me?” you ask before you can lose your nerve.

Ethan’s eyes widen slightly, like he hadn’t expected it. But then he nods, slow and sure, setting his drink down.

You step closer, your hands finding his. He’s hesitant at first—unsure where to put his hands, how close he should be—but once you guide him, he relaxes.

And for the first time tonight, the rest of the world fades away.

There’s just you and Ethan.

His hands resting carefully on your waist.

Your fingers lightly brushing the back of his neck.

His forehead almost—almost—resting against yours.

And in that moment, you know: this tension between you two?

It’s not going anywhere.

If anything, it’s only pulling you closer.

And for once, you don’t feel like running away from it.

You want to fall.

You want to see where this could go.

And judging by the way Ethan’s looking at you right now—

like you’re the only thing that matters in the whole damn world.He does too.

[fictionbyari]

New girl , same heartbeat

Chapter Five: Tension

Master list

Chapter 1 , chapter 2 , chapter 3, chapter 4, chapter 5

The warmth of the party feels suffocating now. The air is thick with the scent of alcohol, sweat, and perfume, the music pounding through your skull, but it’s all just background noise. The only thing your mind can focus on is Ethan.

And the way he looked at you.

Like maybe he wanted to say something but couldn’t. Like he was holding back.

Mindy nudges you again. “Seriously, go after him.”

You swallow hard, hesitating.

But then you see Ethan slipping toward the front door, his shoulders tense, head down like he’s trying to disappear.

And before you can second-guess yourself, your feet are already moving.

⸻

The night air is sharp against your skin when you step outside, a stark contrast to the heat of the party. Ethan is halfway down the steps when you call out, “Ethan, wait.”

He stops.

For a second, he doesn’t turn around. Like he’s debating whether or not to keep walking. But then, slowly, he looks over his shoulder, his expression carefully guarded. “What?”

You hesitate, suddenly unsure what to say now that you actually have his attention.

“I just…” You take a step closer. “Are you okay?”

Ethan exhales through his nose, looking away. “Yeah. I just needed air.”

“Me too.”

You don’t say anything else. You just stand there beside him, letting the silence settle between you. The noise from the party fades into the background, distant and unimportant.

Ethan shifts, shoving his hands into his pockets. He glances at you, then quickly looks away. “Chad’s an idiot.”

You huff a small laugh. “Yeah, but he’s not wrong.”

Ethan’s fingers twitch at his sides. “About what?”

You hesitate. Then, quietly, “About this.”

Ethan stills.

For a moment, he doesn’t say anything. Doesn’t even move. The tension between you is so thick it’s almost unbearable, the unspoken words hovering in the air like a challenge.

Then, finally, he exhales, shaking his head. “You don’t get it.”

Your brows furrow. “Then explain it to me.”

He looks at you then—really looks at you. And something about his expression makes your breath catch.

Like maybe he’s considering it.

Like maybe he wants to.

But instead, he just clenches his jaw, looks away, and mutters, “I can’t.”

Your stomach twists. “Ethan—”

The front door swings open behind you, and Chad’s voice calls out, “Yo, Ethan! You coming or what?”

Ethan stiffens. His shoulders square, his expression locking back into place like a mask.

“Yeah,” he says, his voice flat. “I’m coming.”

But before he walks past you, his fingers barely brush against yours. It’s fleeting, almost like it didn’t happen.

But it did.

And as he disappears back inside, you’re left standing there, your heart racing, knowing this isn’t over.

[fictionbyari]

“Rebels and a Movie”

Dallas Winston x reader

One shot story

Tags/ warnings: no use of y/n , implied smut but no smut, use of sweetheart.

Master list

The screen flickered in front of you, casting shadows across Dally’s sharp features. You were trying, really trying to pay attention to the movie, but the warmth of his arm around your shoulders and the way his knee was pressed against yours made it impossible.

You turned your head slightly, catching the smirk on his lips. He wasn’t even watching the movie he was watching you.

“Dally,” you whispered, narrowing your eyes. “Are you even paying attention?”

He shrugged, looking lazily at the screen for a brief second before turning back to you. “Looks boring.”

“You didn’t even give it a chance,” you whispered back.

Dally chuckled, low and rough, before shifting even closer, his breath warm against your ear. “Didn’t come here for the damn movie, sweetheart.”

You rolled your eyes, even as your heart did a little flip. “Oh, really? And what did you come here for?”

He smirked, tilting his head slightly, considering his answer. “Dunno. Maybe for the company.”

You scoffed. “That’s a first.”

Dally just grinned. “Don’t get used to it.”

Despite his words, he didn’t move away. If anything, his arm around you tightened slightly, pulling you in just a little closer. You could feel the steady rise and fall of his chest, the scent of leather and cigarette smoke mixing with the faint smell of popcorn in the air.

For a while, you both sat in silence, the noise of the movie filling the space around you. Every once in a while, Dally would shift, his fingers brushing lightly against your arm or the back of your neck little touches that felt almost unintentional, but you knew better.

“You cold?” he asked suddenly, his voice lower than before.

You glanced at him, raising a brow. “No.”

Dally smirked. “Good.” He tugged you closer anyway.

You bit your lip, shaking your head at his antics but letting it happen. He was warm, and for all his talk about not being the sentimental type, he sure wasn’t in a rush to let go.

Somewhere in the middle of the movie, he leaned in again, his voice barely above a whisper. “We could ditch this, y’know.”

“And go where?” you whispered back, amused.

He shrugged, that mischievous glint in his eyes. “Anywhere. My kinda fun doesn’t involve sittin’ in the dark watchin’ some flick.”

You let out a soft laugh, tilting your head at him. “And what exactly does your kinda fun involve?”

Dally’s smirk deepened. “You’ll just have to find out.”

His tone was teasing, but there was something else beneath it—something that made your pulse quicken. You thought about it for a second, glancing at the half-empty theater, then back at Dally, who was watching you with that lazy, confident look of his.

Maybe leaving wasn’t such a bad idea after all.

[fictionbyari]

New girl, same heart beat

Chapter Four: A Moment Alone

Master list

Chapter 1, chapter 2, chapter 3, chapter 4, chapter 5

The party is still in full swing, the air thick with music, laughter, and the unmistakable scent of alcohol. People move in and out of the house, some dancing, some shouting over the music, others already too drunk to function. It’s the kind of energy you should be enjoying,college parties are supposed to be fun, after all.

But you aren’t having fun.

You step outside onto the front porch, inhaling deeply as the cool night air washes over you. The hum of the city is a welcome contrast to the overwhelming noise inside. You lean against the railing, looking up at the sky, surprised that despite the glow of the streetlights, the stars are still visible.

You close your eyes for a moment, letting yourself breathe.

The door creaks open behind you.

You expect Mindy or Tara, maybe even Chad coming to drag you back inside, but when you glance over your shoulder, it’s Ethan.

He pauses when he sees you, like he wasn’t expecting anyone else to be here. His hands are stuffed into his jacket pockets, his shoulders slightly hunched. For a second, it seems like he’s debating whether or not to leave.

You arch an eyebrow. “Didn’t think you were the type to ditch the party.”

Ethan exhales, stepping closer but keeping a respectable distance. “Yeah, well… turns out, I really don’t like crowds.”

You smirk. “Shocking.”

He huffs out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. For a moment, neither of you say anything. The music from inside is muffled, and the night feels calmer out here. The cool breeze ruffles your hair, and you catch Ethan glancing at you from the corner of his eye.

Then, after a pause, he speaks again—quieter this time.

“Chad dragged me here, you know.”

You glance at him. “Yeah, I figured.”

“I was gonna leave earlier,” he admits, shifting his weight slightly. “But… I didn’t.”

Something about the way he says it makes your stomach flip. You should leave it alone, brush it off, but curiosity gets the best of you.

“What made you stay?” you ask.

Ethan hesitates, his fingers twitching at his sides. He doesn’t answer right away,just looks at you, his expression unreadable.

Then, so softly you almost don’t hear it, he says—

“You.”

Your breath catches.

The air suddenly feels heavier, charged with something unspoken. The way he’s looking at you now,like he’s almost afraid to let that truth hang between you,makes your heart beat a little too fast.

You should say something. Anything. But your mind goes completely blank.

Inside, the party is still going, oblivious to the shift happening out here. But before you can fully process it, someone from inside calls your name, breaking the moment like a snap of a rubber band.

Ethan steps back, his usual guarded expression slipping back into place. “You should go,” he says, voice even, controlled.

You hesitate, not wanting to leave things like this. “Ethan—”

“It’s fine,” he interrupts, offering a small, almost forced smile. “Go.”

You linger for just a second longer, searching his face for something—some sign that he doesn’t really want you to leave.

And maybe it’s just your imagination, but you swear you see it.

Finally, you nod. “See you inside?”

Ethan holds your gaze for a beat longer. Then

“Yeah.”

But as you turn to go, you can’t shake the feeling that something just changed between you two. And you’re not sure you’ll be able to ignore it.