Part Twelve: The Public Kiss
The afternoon sun shone brightly, casting golden light across the school courtyard. Anna Rosé and Ethan were walking side by side near the fountain, laughing quietly at something only they understood.
"I still can't believe you did that," Anna said, shaking her head with a smile.
Ethan leaned closer, his hand brushing hers. "Believe it, Anna. You're mine… well, in a way," he teased, his eyes sparkling mischievously.
Before she could respond, he pulled her gently toward him and kissed her again.
This time, the kiss lasted longer, deeper. Anna's heart raced, and for a brief moment, she forgot everything else—her worries, Nick, even the world around her.
But the moment wasn't private. From the benches, the stairs, and the windows above, half the school had stopped to watch. Whispers, shocked gasps, and giggles filled the courtyard.
"Ethan… Anna…" someone murmured.
Nick, who had been walking by and stopped mid-step, froze. His fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. His heart felt like it was breaking all over again. Seeing Anna in Ethan's arms, kissing him openly, a mix of rage and despair overwhelmed him.
He stormed toward them, voice shaking with anger: "Ethan! How dare you!"
Ethan stepped back, a calm smirk on his face. "Nick… relax. She's here because she wants to be. It's her choice, not yours."
Nick's eyes blazed. "This isn't about choice! You're manipulating her, using her feelings to play your games! Stay away from her!"
Ethan chuckled softly, leaning closer to Anna again. "Nick, she kissed me… she's not resisting. Maybe she likes me. Or maybe… you're just overthinking."
Nick's jaw tightened. "Overthinking? You're trapping her in your twisted, playful games! I won't let you do this!"
Anna's heart raced. She didn't know what to say. Half the school was watching, Ethan's charm pulling her in, and Nick's intensity burning in her chest. She felt torn between the daring thrill of Ethan and the steady, protective warmth of Nick.
The courtyard was electric, full of whispers, tension, and emotions that none of them could escape. Anna realized just how complicated love could be—and how impossible it was to ignore the pull of both cousins.