Mute

Chapter 33

Aria’s POV.

Lena’s sudden appearance at my side, her eyes twinkling with zeitemen, CRIBOR TE off guard. “Aria, you have a visitor, she announced, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

I furrowed my brows in confusion. A visitor? Here? Who could it be shy wind f**kd red with possibilities, but I quickly pushed aside the thought of Caspian, I didn’t want to entertain any illusions or hopes where he was concerned.

Let them in, I signed to Lena, trying to conced the curiosity that gnawed at me.

As the door swung open, revealing the unexpected guest, I felt my heart skip a beat Ethan stood before me, his charming smile lighting up the room. Ethan 1 mouthed and gasped, unable to hide my surprise.

He chuckled softly. “Surprised to see me?

I nodded, still trying to process his unexpected visit. What are you doing here? I signet my curiosity piqued.

Ethan’s smile softened, and he explained, “I’m leaving, Aria. But I wanted to say goodbye before I go

His words caught me off guard, and I struggled to find the right response. Oh, was all f managed to mouth, feeling a pang of sadness at the thought of him leaving because be had been kind enough to pay me a visit when I had thought he had completely forgotten about a mute like me,

But then Ethan held out a small package, his gaze earnest. “I brought you something he said, his eyes shining with sincerity.

I hesitated, feeling unworthy of such a gesture. “You didn’t have to 1 protested groby, my hands swift.

Ethan shook his head, his smile unwavering. Please, Aria. I want you to have it?

With a grateful smile, I accepted the gift, touched by his kindness. “Thank you, Ethan, I signed, genuinely appreciative.

“Would you like to take a walk?” Ethan suggested, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes

I looked up from the gift, intrigued by the offer. ‘A walk? 1 inquired, considering his

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Chapter 43

proposal.

“Yeah, just to chat and enjoy the evening,” he explained, his smile inviting.

I smiled back, feeling a sense of adventure stir within me. ‘Sure, I’d love that, I signed my response, cager to spend more time with him.

As we walked and talked, Ethan and I delved into deeper topics, sharing our dreams, fears, and aspirations.

“So, Aria, what do you hope to achieve in the future?” Ethan asked, his gaze curious yet. gentle:

I pondered his question for a moment, considering the path I wanted my life to take. ‘I suppose I’d like to explore the world beyond the pack, experience new things,’ I signed my response with a hint of uncertainty.

Ethan nodded, his expression thoughtful. That sounds amazing. I’ve always wanted to travel too,” he admitted, a hint of longing in his eyes.

Our conversation flowed effortlessly, each exchange bringing us closer together. But just when I thought I had a handle on the situation, Ethan did something unexpected.

In a bold move, he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to my cheek, leaving me stunned and speechless.

“I… I’m sorry,” Ethan stammered, his checks flushing with embarrassment. “I shouldn’t have…”

Before he could finish his apology, I felt a wide range of emotions wash over me. Part of me was flustered by the unexpected gesture, while another part was touched by his. honesty.

‘It’s okay, I managed to sign, my hands a bit shaky.

Ethan’s expression softened, and he reached out to gently grasp my hand. “I hope you know that I really like you, Aria,” he confessed, his eyes searching mine for any sign of reciprocation.

I was at a loss on how to respond, unsure of how to respond to his heartfelt confession. But Ethan seemed to sense my hesitation, and he quickly reassured me.

“It’s okay if you don’t feel the same way,” he said softly, his gaze unwavering. “I just wanted you to know how I feel. And when I return, I’d love to talk to you properly.”

As Ethan held my hand, his gaze locked with mine, I could feel my cheeks warming

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Chapter 35

under his intense stare. His touch was comforting yet electrifying, and I found myself drawn to him in a way I hadn’t expected.

Take care of yourself, Aria,” Ethan said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. “I’ll be back before you know it”

I could only nod in response, my heart fluttering at the thought of seeing him again. As he turned to leave. I watched him go, a mixture of emotions swirling inside me.

Lost in my thoughts. I barely noticed Lena approaching until she spoke, her voice pulling me back to reality.

“Who was that?” Lena asked, her eyes curious as she glanced in the direction Ethan had

gone.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to explain my encounter with Ethan. I met him at the pack run after party! I replied, keeping my answer vague.

‘Lenal’ I exclaimed with my hands, my checks burning with embarrassment as she continued to tease me.

But Lena only laughed, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “Come on, Aria, spill the details!” she urged, nudging me again.

I sighed, knowing there was no escaping Lena’s relentless teasing. There’s not much to tell, I protested weakly, hoping she would drop the subject.

But Lena wasn’t about to let it go that easily. “Oh, I see how it is, she teased, winking at me. “Mystery man comes into your life, sweeps you off your feet, and you’re all secretive about it.”

I rolled my eyes, unable to suppress a smile despite my embarrassment. Lena had a way of making even the most awkward situations feel lighter.

Just wait until he comes back. Lena continued, her grin widening. “We’ll have to interrogate him properly and make sure he’s worthy of our Aria

I chuckled, grateful for Lena’s lightheartedness in the midst of my confusion. Thanks, Lena, I signed, giving her a playful shove. You always know how to make me feel better.

Lena grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. That’s what friends are for, right?” she replied, linking her arm with mine as we headed back inside.

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