BEAUTIFUL SOLDIER – Part 2

Captain Raya walked a few steps ahead, boots crunching leaves beneath her. The night breeze danced around her uniform, and the sounds of the forest slowly returned now that the battle was over.

Then—she stopped.

Dereck, still standing with a hopeful gaze, tilted his head slightly.

She turned around and walked back toward him, her sharp eyes locking onto his again. “Listen, civilian,” she said firmly, “this forest isn’t safe. You need to leave. Now.”

Dereck held his breath. She was standing so close again, close enough that he could see the faint scar on her cheek—barely visible, but telling of the life she lived.

He tried to sound calm. “And go where? The only thing waiting for me outside this forest is more chaos. Out here, at least I had silence… until you and your bullets showed up.”

She narrowed her eyes. “This isn’t a joke. You’ll be dead before morning if you stay here.”

“Exactly why I should come with you,” Dereck said quickly, seizing the moment. “I’m not asking to hold a gun or march in line. I just want to stay alive. You have protection, food… a freaking team. I have a stick and bad luck.”

He took a careful step closer. “Let me come with you. I swear I’ll stay out of the way. Please, Captain.”

Raya stared at him for a moment. Silent. Thinking.

Then she sighed.

“Fine,” she said. “But on one condition—you do not get involved in anything related to soldiers. You stay quiet. You follow instructions. And when the helicopter comes from headquarters, you're gone. Understood?”

Dereck lit up with a boyish grin. “Crystal clear, Captain. I’m your most obedient shadow.”

She gave him a look, part warning, part curious, before turning away again.

“Get your stuff. We move in two minutes.”

Dereck grabbed his small bag with excitement and practically jogged to her side. “You won’t regret this, Captain Raya. I promise I’m excellent company.”

She didn’t respond, but he kept talking anyway—lighthearted, joking, occasionally throwing in a compliment here and there. “Is it against military code to smile?” he asked. “Because I feel like your lips are hiding a beautiful one.”

The soldiers around them began to smirk. A few chuckled. Even the grumpy one with the scarred eyebrow, Private Kito, cracked a grin.

In no time, Dereck’s charm had everyone laughing and shaking their heads—everyone except one.

Chriss.

Broad-shouldered, cold-eyed, and always alert. He walked at the front of the group, but every time Dereck spoke, his jaw visibly tightened.

He leaned close to one of the soldiers and muttered, “Why is he even here?”

The soldier shrugged. “Captain allowed it.”

Chriss's eyes flicked to Dereck, who was now joking about how he could be their emotional support guy. But his gaze lingered longer on Raya, and that was when Chriss’s fists clenched.

The way Dereck looked at her. The way she—though not smiling—hadn’t shut him down as harshly as usual. It annoyed him.

They walked through the dense forest for over an hour. Moonlight guided the way. As the group approached a hidden military camp between ridges, tents glowing faintly in the dark, Dereck whispered to Raya again, “So… do I get a cool codename too? I vote ‘The Lucky Civilian.’”

Raya glanced sideways at him with her usual unreadable expression. “You’re lucky, alright.”

Dereck grinned. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

But behind them, Chriss was watching closely, jaw clenched tighter than ever.

Something about this civilian didn’t sit right with him—and it wasn’t just the flirting.

BEAUTIFUL SOLDIER In the heart of a deep forest, darkness slowly crept in as the sun vanished behind the thick canopy. Beneath a towering bamboo tree sat a young man, his eyes lost and full of sorrow. “It’s not my fault… it’s not,” he whispered, a small stick trembling in his hand. “How could I be blamed for that patient’s death? I did everything I could…” This was Doctor Dereck, once a top physician at Forewell Hospital. Now? Just a man whose career had shattered like glass, blamed for a life he tried to save. To escape the storm of judgment and pain, Dereck had come here—alone. Searching for peace. But peace had other plans. Gunshots. His body tensed. “Was that… a gun?” His heart raced. More shots followed—louder, closer. Out of instinct, he dove behind the bamboo tree. “God, please… I know death is part of life, but not today. I’m only 25…” PA! PA! PA! Then came the chaos. Soldiers appeared, firing back at masked enemies dressed in black, a brutal fight unfolding before his eyes. And then—he saw her. A girl. A soldier. A vision. She stood amidst the flying bullets, firing with precise calm. Her round face was fierce and beautiful. Her small lips pursed in focus. Brown eyes locked on target. Even in her uniform, her grace was impossible to ignore. Dereck’s breath caught. “What… is this? A soldier or an angel?” And before he could blink, the angel ran straight toward him. She shoved him aside just in time to strike down a masked attacker who had been creeping up behind him. He hit the ground hard, stunned. “That bastard almost killed me…” His heart pounded, but all he could think of was her. He turned to look again— She was gone. But not for long. The masked enemies, clearly losing the fight, began retreating into the forest, disappearing into the night. The gunfire stopped. Silence returned. The soldiers gathered quickly—and to Dereck’s amazement, the girl stepped forward, her voice sharp and steady. “Circle formation. Sweep perimeter. Stay alert.” They followed instantly. She was no ordinary soldier. She was the captain. As the others moved out, she turned to him slowly, her intense eyes locking on his. “You. Civilian. What the hell are you doing in the forest all alone?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. Dereck blinked, then stood, brushing dirt off his clothes with a small smirk. “Chilling.” She didn’t laugh. She stared. He cleared his throat, trying again. “I just needed space… to think. To breathe. Didn’t expect bullets and angels, though.” “Angels?” she asked, one brow raised. He smiled, eyes scanning her face with open admiration. “Yeah. You. Honestly, if you weren’t holding a gun and barking orders, I’d swear I was hallucinating.” She rolled her eyes, but a flicker of a smile teased the corner of her lips. “This forest isn’t a spa. You’re lucky you didn’t get yourself killed.” He stepped closer. “Well, if I had, at least it’d be worth it. You’d be the last face I saw.” She gave him a sharp look—half warning, half amused. “You always flirt with people who just saved your life?” “Only when they’re beautiful,” he replied smoothly, eyes twinkling. “And dangerous. You’re a deadly combination, Captain…” “Captain Raya,” she said firmly. He nodded, locking the name in his heart. “Captain Raya… Sounds powerful.” “You talk too much,” she said, turning to walk away. But Dereck called after her with a grin. “I could stay quiet… if you promise to stay around.” She paused, didn’t look back, but he swore he saw her smirk before disappearing into the trees. Dereck stood there, smiling to himself. He came here to escape his past… but maybe fate had led him to something far more dangerous—and beautiful. To be continued...

In a world where appearances deceive and secrets are buried deep beneath the surface, Casandra is a seemingly ordinary girl with an extraordinary secret—she’s a Demofairy. A Demofairy is a rare creature that can transform based on emotions. When filled with extreme happiness, they transform into beautiful, graceful fairies, and when consumed by sadness, they morph into fierce, intimidating demons. Most Demofairies cannot control this transformation, as their emotions dictate their physical appearance. Casandra, however, hides this truth from the world. She strives to live a normal life, blending in with the crowd and keeping her secret safe, even as the weight of it grows heavier with each passing day.

Society sees her kind as dangerous—creatures who should never exist. But the danger is not just in the transformation of Demofairies. There is a shadow organization—Antdemofairies—that hunts them down. This ruthless company has made it their mission to eradicate all Demofairies. They capture these creatures, imprison them, and ensure they are never able to live in peace. The world believes that eradicating them is the only way to maintain safety, making Casandra’s existence more perilous with each passing moment.

Her world unravels when events force her to confront the truth about herself, her powers, and the growing risk of being exposed. At the same school, another Demofairy, Mike, is an enigma. Antisocial and withdrawn, Mike is the most powerful of his kind. Unlike others, he has mastered control over his emotions, allowing him to keep his identity hidden without fear of transformation.

When Casandra’s secret and Mike’s collide, their fates intertwine in a way neither of them expected. As the truth about their kind emerges, Casandra and Mike must face the harsh reality of a society unwilling to accept them. But it’s not just society they need to worry about. Antdemofairies is closing in, and their relentless pursuit could mean the end for all Demofairies. Will they stand together, or will their emotions tear them apart?

SOMEONE FROM HEAVEN

Lily had just finished delivering a small bundle of fireworks to Mrs. Donovan when she spotted Ethan leaning casually against the old oak tree near the house. She had seen him around the village before—always standing out, always trying to talk to her. She didn't liked the attention, so she could easily ignore.

"Hey, Lily," Ethan called as she walked by, his tone smooth, as though they were old friends. "Where are you off to? Let me walk you home."

Lily paused, glancing over at him. She had seen him many times trying to strike up a conversation, always with that confident air, that smile that seemed a little too practiced. It wasn’t that she didn’t notice him—she did—but she wasn’t about to fall into the same pattern as the other girls who always fawned over him.

“I’m headed home,” she replied, her voice firm, not giving an inch.

Ethan shrugged, stepping forward slightly. “Come on, it’s no trouble. I could use some company.”

Lily’s eyes narrowed. She had heard this line before. He never really seemed to take “no” for an answer. It always felt like he thought he could charm his way into her time, into her attention, and she wasn’t in the mood to indulge him today.

“You don’t get it, do you?” she said, stopping in her tracks and turning to face him directly. “You act like you’re from heaven, looking down at everyone else. Like you’re somehow above the rest of us.”

Ethan blinked, taken aback by her bluntness, but Lily wasn’t done. She had spent too many days watching him strut around like he was the king of the village, and she wasn’t going to let him get away with it any longer.

“You think your fancy clothes, your money, and your connections make you special,” she continued, her voice growing more heated. “But not everyone’s impressed by that. Not everyone needs you to try to fix everything for them.”

Ethan opened his mouth, as if to protest, but she wasn’t finished.

“You see the other boys like they’re beneath you, like they can’t even play on the dirt ground without making a mess. Well, guess what? They’ve got something you don’t. Realness. Something you can’t buy.”

There was a beat of silence between them. Ethan was caught off guard, not used to this from her. She didn’t shy away from his gaze, her eyes steady and unyielding.

“If you want to get to know people, Ethan, stop pretending like you're from a different world,” she added, her tone softer now but just as firm. “Start looking at us like we matter, because right now, you’re not even seeing us.”

With that, she turned and walked away, her footsteps steady as she headed toward her home, leaving Ethan standing there, frozen. His heart pounded in his chest, his mind reeling from the truth of her words. She didn’t want his pity or his attention. She wanted something deeper, something real—and for the first time in his life, Ethan wasn’t sure if he could give it to her.

SCENE:THE STRUGGLE

Ethan stood at the edge of the dirt field, his feet shifting uncomfortably. The other boys were laughing and running, their laughter echoing in his ears. He had never been a part of this—the dirt, the rough play, the feeling of being just like them. To Ethan, it felt like lowering himself to their level. He glanced at the other boys, his heart heavy. They were so carefree, so natural in this environment, while he felt like a stranger in his own skin.

Lily’s words echoed in his mind: "You act like you're from heaven, and see others as trash who can't even play in the ground." She had been right. He had always kept his distance from them, thinking he was better, too good for the simple joys that came with being a part of something raw and real.

But now, in this moment, he wanted to prove her wrong. He wanted to show Lily he could be someone who belonged, someone she could respect. Yet, the more he tried to step forward, the more the fear gripped him. What if they saw him as weak? What if they laughed at him for trying so hard to fit in?

His pride kept pulling him back, urging him to stay away, to stay in his safe bubble of arrogance. But then, he thought about Lily—her smile, and the kindness in her eyes. It was his love for her that made him want to be a better man.

Ethan let out a frustrated sigh and finally walked onto the field. His heart pounded in his chest as he joined the game, awkward at first, but determined to push past the discomfort.

Ethan’s feet moved more naturally with each step, the awkwardness slowly fading as he got into the rhythm of the game. He hadn’t realized how freeing it felt, the dirt and sweat mixing with the energy of the other boys. For the first time, he wasn’t worried about being perfect or looking out of place. He was just... playing, and it felt good.

As the game picked up pace, his eyes flicked to the side. Lily was walking by, with Peter eagerly greeting her, as usual. Ethan’s heart skipped a beat when he saw her. He couldn't help but notice the small surprise in her eyes when she saw him, but she quickly masked it, pretending not to notice him. She spoke to Peter casually, her focus elsewhere.

A pang of hurt hit Ethan, but it also sparked a new kind of resolve. She wasn’t going to make this easy for him, and that was okay. He hadn’t earned her respect yet, but he was going to work for it. He played harder, louder, each movement now fueled by a mixture of frustration and determination to prove himself—both to her and to himself.

Peter smiled at Lily, oblivious to Ethan’s inner turmoil, and for a brief moment, Ethan wished he could be as carefree as the others, someone who didn’t have to constantly prove anything. But he wasn’t there yet. For now, he just kept playing, letting the game speak for him.

SCENE: PROGRESS IN MOTION

The game raged on, the boys shouting and laughing, but Ethan's mind was a storm of thoughts. Every time his foot connected with the ball, he felt a small piece of his old self chipping away. The arrogance, the pride—it was all being left behind in the dust he kicked up with every sprint.

But his eyes kept drifting back to Lily. She stood there, her arms crossed, talking to Peter like Ethan wasn’t even there. That stung more than any rough tackle or harsh word from the boys on the field. But maybe that’s what he deserved. He had ignored these people, dismissed their lives, and now he was the one trying to claw his way in.

A sharp pass came his way, snapping him out of his thoughts. Instinctively, he trapped the ball with surprising ease, then dribbled past two boys before shooting it towards the makeshift goal. The ball flew in, hitting the net with a satisfying thud. The boys cheered, clapping him on the back, and for the first time, Ethan felt a genuine connection to them. It wasn’t forced. It wasn’t fake. It was real.

He glanced toward Lily again, hoping to catch her eye, but she was still engrossed in conversation with Peter. His heart sank, but he reminded himself—this wasn’t about instant results. He couldn’t expect her to forgive him overnight. Change wasn’t about one grand gesture; it was about consistency, proving over time that he was different.

As the game wound down, Ethan sat on the edge of the field, wiping sweat from his brow. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting golden hues over the village. He watched as Lily finally said goodbye to Peter and began to walk away. For a split second, she turned her head slightly, her eyes meeting Ethan’s from across the field. There was no smile, no nod, just a brief, unreadable glance before she continued on her way.

But that glance—it was enough. It wasn’t much, but it wasn’t nothing either. Ethan felt a small spark of hope ignite within him. The road ahead was long, but he was ready to walk it, no matter how hard it got.

Because Lily was worth it. And maybe, just maybe, he was worth it too.

SCENE: SMALL STEPS

The next day, Ethan woke up early, determined to keep moving forward. He spent the morning helping Mrs. Kamau carry firewood to her house, something he would’ve never done before. She gave him a surprised look but didn’t say much, just nodded in thanks.

Later, he joined some of the boys fixing a broken fence near the football field. They laughed and teased him at first, but Ethan didn’t mind. He laughed along, feeling like he was finally becoming part of the village.

In the afternoon, he helped old Mr. Juma fetch water from the river. The buckets were heavy, and his arms ached, but Ethan didn’t complain. He knew these small actions mattered.

As the sun began to set, Ethan passed by the market and spotted Lily talking with Peter again. His heart tightened, but he reminded himself—this wasn’t about rushing things. It was about showing who he was now.

Lily didn’t look his way, but that was okay. Tomorrow was another day, and Ethan was ready to keep trying.

SCENE: UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER

The next morning, Ethan found himself back at the football field. The boys had invited him to play this time, and though he wasn’t used to playing on the rough, uneven dirt ground, he was actually a good player. He gave it his all, diving into the dirt, chasing after the ball, and laughing when he tripped over his own feet. For once, he didn’t care about looking foolish. The village boys started seeing him less as the distant, arrogant Ethan and more like one of their own.

After the game, sweaty and breathless, Ethan decided to take a walk towards the river to cool off. As he reached the path lined with wildflowers, he heard familiar laughter up ahead. His steps slowed.

There, by the water's edge, was Lily, her feet dipped into the cool stream, laughing softly to herself. Ethan’s heart thudded painfully, but instead of turning away, he took a deep breath and kept walking forward, his steps crunching softly on the pebbled path.

Lily glanced up, her laughter fading as her eyes met his. For a moment, the world seemed to pause.

Ethan stood there awkwardly, unsure of what to say. But Lily, instead of leaving, stayed seated, her gaze unreadable.

“You play football now?” she asked, her voice neutral.

Ethan shrugged, trying to seem casual. “Trying to,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck. “Not very used to that kind of playground.”

Lily raised an eyebrow, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her lips. “Could’ve fooled me. That goal you scored yesterday wasn’t bad at all.”

Ethan blinked, surprised. “You… you saw that?”

Lily nodded, looking back at the water, the smile still lingering. “Yeah. You’re better than you let on.”

Ethan chuckled softly, his heart lifting a little. “Guess I just needed the right crowd.”

Lily’s smile faded as quickly as it had come. “People change, huh?”

Ethan nodded, stepping closer but keeping a respectful distance. “Yeah. I’m trying to, at least.”

Lily was silent for a few moments, staring at the ripples in the water. Ethan didn’t rush to fill the gap. He just stood there, letting the quiet settle between them like a fragile truce.

Finally, Lily spoke again, her voice softer this time. “Well… we’ll see, won’t we?”

Ethan smiled, a flicker of hope warming his chest. “Yeah, we will.”

Without saying more, he turned and walked away, leaving Lily by the river, her thoughts as tangled as his own. But for the first time in a long while, Ethan felt like he was on the right path.

SCENE: UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER – PART TWO

The next day, Ethan found himself standing outside Lily’s house, uncertain whether to knock or wait for her to come out. He had hoped to catch her at the well earlier, but she never showed. As he stood there, the sound of laughter floated through the window, drawing his attention. Unable to resist, he moved closer, peeking through a small crack.

Inside, Lily was laughing with her younger sister, Tedy. Ethan felt a pang of longing, but before he could think much of it, Lily’s eyes suddenly met his. Her expression quickly shifted to surprise, and she hurried toward the door, flinging it open.

"What are you doing here?" Lily asked, her voice low, glancing nervously back into the house to make sure no one had seen him.

Ethan, a little startled, stepped back slightly. "I couldn’t let the day pass without seeing you. I waited by the well, but you didn’t come, so I thought I’d try here."

Lily frowned, clearly caught off guard. "You shouldn’t be standing out here. You need to go." She hesitated for a moment, her voice more serious now. "You shouldn’t have come. It’s better if you leave."

Ethan stood firm, not ready to back down so easily. He met her gaze with determination. "I’m not leaving, Lily. I just want to take a walk with you, that’s all. A quick walk, and I’ll go. Please."

Lily shook her head, her expression conflicted. "Ethan, this isn’t the right time. You can’t just show up whenever you want. My mom could see us—"

"I know," Ethan interrupted gently, "but I’ve been waiting to talk to you. Just for a little while. Please." He gave her a look that was earnest, as if he wasn’t about to leave without hearing her out.

Lily hesitated, caught between wanting to avoid any trouble and the odd pull she felt to continue the conversation. She sighed, her shoulders slumping in resignation. "Fine. Just a walk. But you have to keep it short, alright?"

Ethan smiled, grateful she was willing to at least give him a chance. "I promise. I’ll make it quick."

With a final glance to make sure no one was watching, she stepped out of the doorway, and together they began walking away from the house, the air between them charged with unspoken words. Ethan felt a quiet sense of victory, but he knew this was just the beginning.

UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER – PART THREE

As they walked in silence, the cool breeze rustled the leaves of the trees around them, creating a calm atmosphere that made the moment feel almost surreal. Ethan could hardly believe he was walking beside her, his heart racing with every step.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Ethan couldn't hold back any longer. He turned to Lily, his voice soft but steady. "Lily, there's something I need to say. Something that's been on my mind for a long time."

Lily glanced at him, a mix of curiosity and caution in her eyes. "What is it, Ethan?"

He stopped walking, taking a deep breath before speaking again, this time with more resolve. "It's about what you said—the way I’ve been acting. I know I’ve been distant, acting like I’m somehow better than others. But the truth is, I’ve been wrong. You... you opened my eyes, Lily. The way you said I act like I’m from heaven, like I see others as beneath me—it really hit me."

Lily’s brow furrowed, clearly surprised by his admission. "So, this is why you’ve been... changing? Why you’ve been helping people with the work and trying to get along with the other boys in the village?"

Ethan nodded, his gaze not leaving hers. "Yes. I wanted to prove to you that I’m capable of change. That I can be more than the person I was. I never realized how much I was hurting others until you made me see it. And I can’t help but feel like... maybe I did all of this because I want to be someone you could respect. Someone worthy of your time, of you."

Lily stopped walking too, her expression unreadable for a moment as she processed his words. For a brief instant, her eyes softened, but then they sharpened again, her voice quieter. "Ethan, I never asked you to change for me. I wanted you to change for yourself. People shouldn’t feel like they have to do something just to be noticed by someone else."

Ethan swallowed hard, his heart sinking at the truth in her words. He stepped closer, gently taking a step toward her. "I know. And I can’t explain it, but something about what you said made me want to try. I want to be better—not just for you, but for myself too. But if it means anything, I want to be someone you could be proud of."

Lily looked down at her feet for a moment, then back up at him. The tension between them was palpable, the weight of his confession hanging in the air. She didn't say anything right away, and Ethan could feel the uncertainty in her silence.

Finally, she spoke, her voice a bit softer than before. "I’m glad you’re trying, Ethan. But it’s not enough to just say the words. You have to prove it. And I can’t promise anything just yet. But... I guess it’s a start."

Ethan’s heart leaped at her words, though he could tell she was still cautious. He gave her a small, genuine smile. "I’ll prove it, Lily. Just give me time."

She nodded, her expression softening a little as she continued walking. Ethan followed beside her, feeling a mixture of hope and determination. This was just the beginning, but it was a step closer to the person he wanted to be—someone worthy of Lily’s trust and, maybe, her heart.

As Lily began to walk away, Ethan stood still, his heart still racing. He watched her retreating figure, knowing there was nothing more he could say. He had spoken honestly, laid his feelings out on the line, but he couldn’t ignore the feeling that he hadn’t made any real progress. She hadn’t given him any indication that things had changed between them—she hadn’t even looked back.

Lily’s footsteps were slow but steady, and she didn’t turn back to glance at him. The breeze ruffled her hair, but it was the quiet in the air that seemed to weigh most heavily on her. She didn’t want to admit it, but something about Ethan’s words had affected her. His sincerity had caught her off guard, and for a brief moment, she wondered if there could be more to him than she had always thought.

But she quickly pushed the thought away. This wasn’t about him anymore. It was about her, and the walls she had built around herself. She couldn’t afford to lower those walls, not now, not because of something he said. She couldn’t forget how he had treated others in the past. His words might have been sincere, but they didn’t change the history between them.

Lily reached the end of the path and stopped for a moment, glancing back toward Ethan—who still hadn’t moved. She considered saying something else, but instead, she turned away. She didn’t need to say anything more. The distance between them felt as wide as ever, and despite the fleeting shift she felt in herself, she wasn’t ready to let him in.

---

Ethan watched her disappear into the distance, the silence between them heavy. He stood there for a long time, but no part of him felt like he had won something. There was no satisfaction in this moment, no relief. He had spoken the truth, but it hadn’t made a difference. She hadn’t opened up. She hadn’t given him anything to hold on to.

He realized, then, that he hadn’t done anything to earn her trust—not yet, and perhaps not ever. He had hoped, maybe, that she’d see something in him. But the reality was, she hadn’t moved an inch, and neither had he.

---

Lily entered her house without looking back, her mind swirling with the faintest stirrings of something she didn’t want to examine. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted between her and Ethan, but she also couldn’t bring herself to acknowledge it. It wasn’t enough, and maybe it would never be.

As she closed the door behind her, she exhaled slowly. It was just another day—just another step in the same path.

Ethan was still standing at the edge of the village, unsure of what came next, but he knew one thing for sure: he hadn’t earned anything today. Not yet.

SCENE:THE SECRET FOLLOW

The next day, Ethan woke up to an unsettling stillness that seemed to permeate every corner of the house. The tension of the previous day weighed on him, but there was something else gnawing at him—something he couldn't quite put his finger on. He couldn’t shake the image of Lily, her face etched with fear, the way she’d walked away from him the day before. And despite everything, the anger he had felt seemed to settle into something else, something softer. It felt like regret, and it bothered him.

Bored and restless, Ethan found himself walking aimlessly, his feet carrying him through streets he didn't recognize. His mind wandered, replaying the moment with Lily over and over. He told himself he should just let it go, but the feeling of unfinished business lingered. Without really deciding to, he kept walking, each step pushing him further from his frustration.

Suddenly, he saw her.

Lily, walking ahead of him, her pace slow, but purposeful. She held a basket in her hands, seemingly on some errand. His heart skipped, and for a moment, he froze. She was as beautiful as ever, even from a distance, her presence like a magnetic pull that he couldn’t resist. The urge to approach her was there, but something held him back. He couldn’t bring himself to face her—not after everything that had happened.

Instead, he began to follow her. Not in a way that would be obvious, but enough to stay close, hidden in the shadows. He watched as she moved gracefully, her hair swaying with every step, her eyes focused ahead, unaware of the gaze on her. The way she walked, so intent on her task, made something inside him stir—admiration, maybe even longing. But he pushed those thoughts aside, convincing himself it was just curiosity.

She reached the market, walking through the stalls, picking out items with care. Ethan stayed hidden, observing her every move. He couldn’t explain why, but he felt compelled to watch her. There was something captivating about her, something that made him feel both alive and disconnected at the same time.

After she completed her shopping, she turned and began heading back home. Ethan, still shadowing her, knew exactly where she was going. The knowledge felt strangely unsettling, as though he was crossing some invisible line he hadn’t intended to. But he couldn’t stop himself. It was like an invisible thread was pulling him forward, and he was too far gone to pull away.

As Lily reached her home, Ethan paused at the corner of the street, watching her disappear behind the old worn out door. His heart pounded in his chest, the weight of the moment pressing down on him. The tension in his mind only grew stronger.

He turned and began heading back home, but this time, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted inside him—a feeling that was deeper than just curiosity or attraction. It was something unfamiliar, something that felt both exciting and terrifying at the same time. And for the first time in a long while, Ethan realized that he wasn’t sure what would come next.

SCENE:WHAT IS LOVE?

Ethan entered the house, the familiar scent of the village air mixing with the warmth of the home. The tension in his chest felt heavier than ever, and he knew he couldn’t keep this feeling locked inside any longer. He needed someone to talk to. He found his brother, Ben, sitting by the fire, absently stirring the pot of food they were preparing for dinner.

"Bro," Ethan began, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "how does it feel to be in love?"

Ben looked up, eyebrows raised in surprise. "What's up with that question, man? You serious?"

Ethan sat down beside him, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I’m serious. I... I think I’m falling for someone. And I don’t know what to do with it."

Ben chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Ethan, the one who’s always been so sure of everything, asking me about love." He leaned back, his expression turning more thoughtful. "But I get it. Love’s not easy. It’s not something you can win with tricks. You gotta feel it, and you gotta be real. If you want advice, though, here’s what I can tell you."

Ethan listened closely, feeling every word Ben said was exactly what he needed.

"First, be humble," Ben said, his voice steady. "Don’t try to act like you know it all, or that you’re perfect. People can tell when you’re being fake. Especially someone like her. Be genuine with her. Show her you care, not just with words, but with your actions. You don’t have to go all out, just show her you’re real and that you’re there for her."

Ethan nodded, processing the advice. "Okay, be real. What else?"

"Patience," Ben continued, his eyes fixed on the fire. "You can’t rush love. If you push too hard, you might scare her away. Take it slow. Get to know her better, learn what she needs, how she feels. You need to build trust first before anything else happens."

Ethan felt a tight knot in his stomach. "But what if she doesn’t feel the same way? What if she’s not interested?"

Ben turned to him, his gaze firm yet kind. "That’s where understanding comes in. Not everything goes the way you want. Sometimes, she might not feel the same, and you have to respect that. Don’t take it personally. It’s not always about you. Just be there for her, listen when she talks. Be someone she can trust, someone she can rely on. The rest will follow, in its own time."

Ethan let out a long, slow breath. It was a lot to think about, but Ben’s words made sense. "So, take it slow, be patient, don’t try to force anything."

Ben smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. "Exactly. Just be yourself. The right person will see that. And when they do, it’ll happen naturally. But you’ve got to be ready to understand her, respect her, and be there when she needs you. That’s how love works."

Ethan sat back, the weight on his chest feeling a little lighter. His brother had given him a new perspective, and though he still didn’t have all the answers, he knew now that he wasn’t alone in this.

Ethan leaned back against the wall, taking in a deep breath. Ben's words hung in the air, making him feel even more conflicted. He hadn't expected this conversation to go in that direction.

Ben, looking at him with a raised eyebrow, broke the silence. "But I know you have your girlfriend, Cotilda, right? Who is this girl you’re talking about now?"

Ethan froze, his gaze dropping to the floor. His heart beat faster, and his mind raced. "Ben... I—" He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Hell no. I never loved Cotilda. She's just forcing this on me."

Ben stayed silent for a moment, studying his brother’s face. Then he nodded slowly. "Mmmh, okay." His tone turned serious. "Just be careful, Ethan. Cotilda loves you a lot. You don’t want to hurt her."

Ethan felt a pang in his chest, but the weight of his feelings for someone else was growing stronger each day. He nodded but didn’t say anything. It was a lot to process—his emotions, his relationship, and now, the reality that Cotilda’s love was deep, even though his heart wasn’t in it.

Ben, sensing Ethan’s struggle, clapped him on the back. "Just think things through, man. Love’s tricky, but being honest with yourself and everyone around you is the best way to go."

SCENE:STAY AWAY FROM ME

Ethan spotted Lily sitting alone on the grass, her arms wrapped tightly around her knees as she stared off into the distance. The late afternoon sun bathed the field in a golden glow, but the tension in the air felt cold and heavy. He hesitated, knowing she probably didn’t want to see him, but something inside him pushed him forward. He had to try.

“Lily,” he called out softly, his voice gentle but uncertain.

She didn’t even flinch. “What do you want, Ethan?” Her voice was sharp, like a blade cutting through the quiet. She still didn’t look at him.

“I just… I wanted to talk.”

At that, Lily stood up abruptly, her eyes blazing as she finally faced him. “Talk? Now you want to talk?” She let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head in disbelief. “Why are you here, Ethan? To hurt my hand again?” She held out her hand as if daring him. “Go ahead. Hurt me, Ethan. Hurt me!” Her voice trembled, not from fear, but from the sheer force of the anger she’d been holding back.

Ethan felt his chest tighten, guilt hitting him hard, but he stepped closer. “Lily, I’m not here to hurt you. I’m serious. I want to know you better.”

She scoffed, folding her arms tightly across her chest. “You think you can fool me with that? I’m not like those other girls you charm with your fake smiles and sweet words. I see right through you.”

Ethan’s jaw clenched, but he kept his voice steady. “I’m not trying to fool you, Lily.”

“Oh, really?” she snapped, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “Then what are you doing here, acting like you care? You walk around this village like you’re better than everyone, like we’re trash beneath your feet. And now you suddenly want to act like you’re interested in me?”

Ethan swallowed hard, feeling the weight of her words settle deep in his chest. He knew he’d messed up, and he could see how much he’d hurt her. But he wasn’t ready to give up—not yet.

SCENE:SHE IS SO STUBBORN

Ethan trudged back home, his feet heavy as his mind replayed the conversation with Lily over and over. Each word she said seemed to echo in his ears, stinging more than he’d expected. How had she seen through him so easily? He had always been able to get what he wanted, but this... this felt different. The way she stood her ground, unwavering—it unsettled him in a way no rejection ever had.

When he entered the house, his mother immediately noticed his downcast expression. She was in the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel as she looked up at him with concern.

"Hey, Ethan. What’s wrong?" she asked, her voice warm but gentle, as if sensing his mood from the very air around him.

Ethan didn’t answer right away. Instead, he  trudged up to his room. His mind was a whirlwind of confusion. As he flopped onto his bed, his phone buzzed with a message from Cotilda. But he barely glanced at it. He didn’t feel like talking to her, not now. She was one of the many girls who chased after him, yet all he could think about was Lily—the girl who didn’t even seem to care.

He opened Cotilda’s texts, reading through them absently. She was asking if he was okay, offering the usual sweet words of comfort. He sighed, tossing the phone aside. He didn’t want to deal with her right now. The thing was, he couldn’t understand why Lily had such an effect on him. She wasn’t like the other girls. She didn’t want his money or his attention. It was like she was... immune to him. And that made her all the more intriguing.

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and his mother stepped in, her gaze soft but knowing.

“Ethan, are you okay?” she asked, her voice full of concern. “You’ve been so quiet today. Something’s on your mind, isn’t there?”

Ethan hesitated. He didn’t want to burden her with his feelings, but after a moment of silence, he sighed deeply and sat up.

“I met someone... and she doesn’t feel the same way,” he admitted, his voice low and uncertain. “I don’t know what to do. She’s different from everyone else. She doesn’t care about the things I usually use to get what I want.”

His mom sat beside him, her eyes filled with understanding. “Ethan, sometimes the things we think are important—like money or status—don’t matter to the right person. The person who truly matters will see you for who you are, not what you have. If she’s not interested in you for the right reasons, then maybe she’s not the one you’re meant to be with.”

Ethan frowned, his frustration bubbling up again. “But she’s so stubborn. She won’t let me in. No one else has ever been like that with me. I don’t know how to get through to her.”

His mom smiled softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Maybe you don’t need to ‘get through’ to her. Maybe you need to show her the real you, without all the tricks. If she’s truly the one for you, she’ll appreciate that more than anything else.”

Ethan sat in silence, letting his mother’s words sink in. It wasn’t the advice he’d expected, but it made sense in a way. For the first time, he wondered if he’d been going about this all wrong. He didn’t need to impress her with grand gestures or show her his wealth. He needed to be honest with her, to let her see him for who he really was—flaws, insecurities, and all.

His mom gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead before standing up. “Just be yourself, Ethan. That’s all you can do.”

As she left the room, Ethan felt a small flicker of hope ignite in him. Maybe there was more to love than he had ever realized.

SCENE:THE PLAYGROUND

The next day, Ben, feeling a sense of responsibility towards his younger brother, practically dragged Ethan along to play football with the other village boys. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about making sure Ethan learned to appreciate the world beyond his usual comforts.

“I don’t see why I have to do this, Ben,” Ethan muttered, pulling his shirt collar in distaste as they approached the ragged field where the boys were already gathering. “I don’t even know why I’d want to play with them. Look at this place—sand, dirt, no proper field.”

Ben didn’t hesitate. “You need to start seeing beyond your own bubble. These boys aren’t any different from you, Ethan. You’ve got to learn to appreciate things like this.”

Ethan scoffed but didn’t fight it. He had learned by now that resisting Ben’s forceful ways was pointless. Though he still hated the idea, he reluctantly followed him, half-heartedly kicking at the dirt.

The other boys greeted them, some of them nodding politely, while others gave curious glances at Ethan, unsure of how to approach the wealthy outsider. Ethan, clearly unimpressed, barely returned their greetings and instead stood with his arms crossed, eyes scanning the dusty field with distaste.

"I can't believe this is how you guys play," Ethan said without thinking. His tone was condescending, as if the boys should be embarrassed about their modest playground.

One of the boys, a lanky teenager with messy hair, raised an eyebrow. "Well, it's what we’ve got. We make the most of it."

But Ethan didn't care to listen. He turned to Ben with a sneer. “I’m not playing. This is ridiculous.”

Ben didn’t respond but simply gestured for him to at least sit down and watch. Ethan sat down on the edge of the field, far from the action, as the boys kicked the ball around with joy. They didn’t mind the sand, the dirt, or the lack of proper equipment. They were just happy to play.

But Ethan couldn’t shake the feeling that he was above it all. He kept making snide remarks, his voice laced with sarcasm, commenting on how primitive the game seemed and how the boys should aspire for something better. It wasn’t long before the boys began exchanging uncomfortable glances, clearly starting to feel the tension in the air.

The game continued, but Ethan’s presence was more like a shadow than an active part of it. He was an outsider in more ways than just location.

He watched them from the sidelines, a sneer still on his face, unable to understand the value of what they were doing. But what he didn’t realize was that, as the boys ran around in the dirt, they weren’t just playing football—they were building something far greater than any fancy field could offer. And Ethan? He was missing it all.

As the boys continued their game, the sound of laughter and the rhythmic thuds of the ball on the ground filled the air. But amidst the lively scene, Ethan's attention was drawn to something else. The path leading past the field was worn and dusty, a familiar route for the village girls who went to fetch water.

He noticed Lily first—her long hair swaying gently as she walked with her friends. She was chatting with them, her smile radiant, but there was something about her that made Ethan pause. He watched her with a curiosity he hadn’t felt before, feeling a strange pull in his chest. She was so different from the girls in his world—her simplicity, her warmth. She didn’t care about the wealth or the status that Ethan was so used to. And for some reason, that made her even more captivating to him.

As Lily passed the field with her friends, the boys, including Peter, took notice. Peter, in particular, seemed to freeze, his eyes fixed on her with a kind of quiet reverence. For a moment, he stopped playing and walked over to greet her, offering a shy, yet warm smile. Ethan, still sitting on the sidelines, could sense the way Peter’s movements had slowed, how his heart seemed to beat a little faster when he approached Lily. It was clear to Ethan that Peter had feelings for her, feelings that he hadn’t expressed.

Ethan’s chest tightened as he watched the exchange. His mind couldn’t process what he was feeling—an unfamiliar mix of jealousy and curiosity. The way Peter spoke to Lily, the way she responded with that soft smile of hers, made Ethan realize something he hadn’t expected: he was looking at Lily in a completely different way.

For the first time, he saw her not as a village girl, but as someone special. He was surprised at the fluttering in his stomach, an unfamiliar feeling that made him want to know more about her, about the world she lived in. But even more surprising was how her presence seemed to make the whole game fade into the background. Ethan wasn’t watching the football anymore; he was watching Lily, her carefree energy and the way she walked so effortlessly.

There was a nagging feeling, a voice in the back of his mind, that told him he should approach her, that he should try to get to know her. But he stayed seated, unsure of what to say, afraid of how his presence would be received.

As she passed by, Lily waved casually to Peter, continuing on her way with her friends. Peter watched her go, a soft sigh escaping his lips as he returned to the game, but his gaze lingered long after she was out of sight.

Ethan’s heart thudded in his chest, and for the first time, he felt a strange, unspoken connection to the village and the people in it. But most of all, he felt an intense desire to understand Lily, to be a part of her world.

Ethan couldn’t stop thinking about Lily’s smile while he watched the game. He tried to focus, but her image kept interrupting his thoughts. Every time he closed his eyes, all he could see was the way her smile had made him feel, and it made it impossible to concentrate.

SCENE:THE SECOND ARGUMENT

As the game went on, he glanced around, his mind still consumed by her. Then, just as he was about to push the thoughts aside, he saw the girls passing by again, returning home. His heart skipped a beat. This time, he couldn’t let the moment slip away. He stood up and, without thinking, called out, "Hey, you!"

The girls turned to look at him, and Ethan’s gaze immediately locked on Lily. Her friends were all giggling and whispering to each other, clearly admiring his handsome appearance. But Lily... Lily didn’t react the way he expected. She just stood still, not showing the same interest.

Ethan stepped closer, gathering his courage. “I want to talk to you,” he said softly, looking directly at her.

Lily hesitated, her expression unreadable, and then she quietly shook her head. “I don’t think you do,” she said, her voice low.

Before Ethan could say anything else, her friends, still standing off to the side, pushed her toward him. They stood back, watching with curiosity, leaving the two of them alone.

Lily’s gaze softened for a brief moment, but her words were firm.

“I don’t think you do,” Lily replied quietly, her voice calm but firm. She turned to walk away, but Ethan stood frozen, the sting of her words making his chest tighten. No girl had ever talked to him that way. In his world, his looks, his wealth, they had always earned him respect and admiration—never rejection. He felt a fire ignite inside him, a burning anger that he couldn't suppress.

“Who do you think you are?” Ethan snapped, raising his voice, the words coming out sharper than he intended. “Talking to me like that? Do you even know who I am?”

Lily stopped in her tracks, her body tense as she turned to face him. Her expression was unwavering, but there was something different in her eyes now. “I don’t care who you are. You’ve disrespected my mother enough, and I hate what you stand for,” she shot back, her voice filled with conviction. “Now, stay away from me.”

Ethan’s anger flared, and before he could think, he stepped toward her and grabbed her arm. “You don’t get to talk to me like that!” he hissed, his grip tightening.

Lily winced, the pain from his grasp shooting through her wrist, bringing back the same hurt she had felt before. “Let go of me!” she pleaded, but Ethan’s anger clouded his judgment. He pulled her closer, ignoring her cries, his focus now on her face. She was so close, the soft scent of her hair filling his senses.

Lily struggled, trying to pull away, but his grip was unrelenting. “You’re hurting me,” she whispered, a tear slipping down her cheek. Her voice cracked with pain. “Please, let go.”

Ethan’s gaze softened for a split second as he looked at her tear-streaked face. But the anger still burned in him, and his grip didn’t loosen.

At that moment, the boys from the game noticed what was happening. Peter, seeing the scene unfold, rushed toward them. “Ethan, let her go!” Peter shouted, pushing Ethan with all his strength.

For a moment, Ethan hesitated, the force of Peter’s push snapping him out of his fury. He released Lily’s wrist, but the damage had been done. Lily stepped back, clutching her wrist as she wiped her eyes. Ethan stood there, chest heaving, the tension between them thick in the air.

Peter stood between them now, glaring at Ethan. Ethan, still furious, couldn’t fully understand what had just happened—how a girl like Lily had made him feel this way, had caused him to lose control. But something in her eyes lingered, a fire he hadn’t expected to see.

Peter’s voice was firm but protective as he turned to Lily. “You need to leave, Lily. Go home. I’ll take care of this.”

Lily nodded, her heart still racing, but she didn’t hesitate to turn and walk away. Her wrist throbbed, but she ignored it, focusing on putting as much distance as she could between herself and Ethan.

Peter then stepped up to Ethan, his eyes narrowed. “You ever touch her again, and I’ll make sure you regret it,” he warned, his voice low but full of authority.

Ethan's anger flared once more. “Don’t you dare lay your filthy hands on me,” he spat, pushing Peter hard enough to make him stumble back. The force of the shove sent ripples of shock through Peter’s body, but he stood his ground, not backing down.

The two locked eyes, tension crackling between them. Just as they were about to throw themselves into a physical fight, a voice interrupted the moment.

“Ethan!” Ben’s voice was sharp, and he quickly moved between the two, holding his younger brother back. “Enough,” Ben said, grabbing Ethan by the arm and pulling him away.

“Let go of me!” Ethan shouted, his voice laced with frustration and anger.

But Ben was unyielding. “You need to calm down. This isn’t the way.”

“Calm down? You want me to calm down after what just happened?” Ethan’s words were seething with resentment as he tried to shake Ben off, but Ben kept a firm grip on him.

On the walk back, Ben continued to lecture him. “You’re embarrassing yourself, Ethan. Acting like that won’t get you what you want. You’ve made a fool of yourself.”

Ethan didn’t care. He was consumed by the fury, his mind racing with how to make Peter pay for what had just transpired. “I don’t need your advice, Ben. If I ever see that guy again, I’ll make him regret ever crossing me.”

Ben sighed, shaking his head. “One day, you’re going to push everyone away, and then you’ll see how lonely it really is.”

Lily (gritting her teeth):

"I really don’t mean to be rude, Mrs. Donovan, but… your grandson? He was unbelievably aggressive. I was just trying to help, and he—” She pauses, pressing her lips together, trying to stay respectful.

Mrs. Donovan sighs, her eyes softening with a hint of sadness.

"Ethan has his demons, dear. But I’ll have a word with him."

Lily forces a smile, nods politely, and steps out into the late afternoon sun. The cool breeze brushes against her cheek, but it does little to cool the frustration boiling inside her.

On her way home, she spots Peter, her childhood friend, leaning against his bicycle. His brow furrows as soon as he sees her.

Peter (concerned):

"Lily? What happened to you?" He gestures toward the faint bruise forming on her wrist, where Ethan had grabbed her too harshly.

Lily tries to shrug it off, but Peter doesn’t let her. Without another word, he takes the hotpot from her hands, carrying it for her as they walk the dusty road back home.

As they step into the small, neat house, Lily’s mother, sharp-eyed and always alert, immediately notices Peter’s presence—and the absence of the hotpot in Lily’s hands.

Mom (narrowing her eyes):

"Peter, why are you carrying that? What happened to Lily?"

Before Lily can make up an excuse, Peter blurts out, "She got hurt by Mrs. Donovan's grandson."

The room falls silent. Lily’s mother’s face hardens, her jaw clenched. Without a word, she grabs Lily’s hand and storms out the door, dragging her daughter along.

Mom (fuming):

"No one lays a finger on my daughter. We’re going to have a word with this boy."

Lily’s heart pounds in her chest. She hadn’t expected this. But deep down, a part of her was curious. What would Ethan say when faced with her—and her

SCENE:ON THE WAY

Lily struggled against her mother’s iron grip as they made their way down the street. Each step felt heavier than the last as she tried to explain herself once again. "Mom, please, I’m fine. There's no need for all this tension. I don’t understand why you’re making such a big deal out of it."

But her mother was relentless. "You don’t understand, Lily! You never understand!" Her voice was tight with frustration, her hand gripping Lily’s wrist so firmly that it almost hurt. "You need to learn to listen, and you need to understand the importance of respect."

Before Lily could argue further, they arrived at Mrs. Donovan’s house. The sight of her mother, so focused and resolute, made Lily's heart sink. They were here to confront Ethan, but for some reason, Lily felt like the real battle was between her mother and the truth she refused to see.

Outside, Mrs. Donovan was doing dishes in the yard, her back turned to them. Her mother wasted no time, storming up to her with fury in her steps. "Where is he?" Lily's mother demanded, her voice sharp and unwavering.

Mrs. Donovan glanced up, startled at the sudden confrontation. "What’s going on? Lily’s mother, what’s all this about?" she asked, wiping her hands on a dish towel.

Without waiting for a proper greeting, Lily’s mother snapped, "Where’s the boy? I need to speak with him. Did he really hurt my daughter?"

The air seemed to freeze as Mrs. Donovan’s eyes widened in surprise. "What do you mean?" she asked, her tone confused. "What’s this all about?"

Before her mother could respond, Ethan appeared at the door, walking toward them with a calm that unsettled Lily. He didn’t look sorry, nor did he seem at all concerned about the tension in the air. His posture was straight, his gaze unwavering.

Lily’s mother wasted no time. "Did you hurt my daughter? Did you really strike her?" she demanded, her voice shaking with anger.

Ethan didn’t flinch. Without a moment’s hesitation, he looked directly at her and replied, his tone laced with defiance, "I did it because she had no manners. She needed to learn respect."

Lily’s mother’s face turned red with fury, and she took a step toward him, her voice rising. "How dare you speak to me like that? You have no right to treat my family this way! You should be apologizing, not giving excuses!"

But Ethan stood his ground, his eyes cold and unyielding. "You don’t get it, do you?" he shot back, his voice low but full of contempt. "Your daughter didn’t learn her place, and I taught her." He glanced at Lily with a sneer, as if daring her mother to challenge him further.

Lily felt a knot form in her stomach. This wasn’t the boy she had known—or thought she knew. The boy standing before her wasn’t just rude, he was downright disrespectful.

Mrs. Donovan, who had been standing silently, finally stepped forward. Her voice was much softer now, more regretful. "Ethan," she said, her tone strained, "that’s enough."

Ethan didn’t even look at her. His focus remained entirely on Lily’s mother, his jaw clenched.

"Apologize," Mrs. Donovan repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. "This has gone too far."

For a long moment, Ethan’s eyes flickered to his grandmother, then to Lily’s mother, and then back to the ground. Finally, he exhaled sharply, muttering something under his breath before forcing the words out. "Fine. I’m sorry."

Lily’s mother didn’t seem satisfied, her anger still simmering. She stared at Ethan, her eyes narrowing. "That’s not good enough," she snapped. "You don’t just apologize like that after everything you’ve done. You need to show real remorse for what you did to my daughter."

Ethan's jaw tightened. He had already said what was needed, and he wasn’t going to be dragged into a deeper conversation about it. "I already said I’m sorry," he shot back, his voice laced with impatience. "What more do you want from me?"

Lily’s mother’s face flushed with anger. "I want you to understand what you’ve done. Apologizing like that isn’t enough. You hurt my daughter, and you need to take responsibility for that."

Ethan stood tall, his expression hardening. "I told you why I did it. She needed to learn her place, and I made sure she did."

Lily felt a chill in the air as the tension between her mother and Ethan reached a breaking point. Her mother was visibly shaking with fury, but Ethan showed no sign of remorse—just defiance.

Mrs. Donovan, still standing quietly beside them, seemed to be at a loss. She gave a deep sigh and, after a long pause, spoke softly, almost pleading. "Ethan, that’s enough. Please, just let it go."

But Ethan’s gaze remained fixed, unyielding. "I’ve already apologized," he muttered, as if the words didn’t matter anymore.

Lily’s mother turned sharply, pulling Lily away from the scene. "Let’s go, Lily. There’s nothing more to be said here," she said, her voice still tight with anger.

Lily’s stomach churned as they walked away. Ethan’s apology had felt empty, and his attitude left a bitter taste in her mouth.

As they walked down the familiar path leading home, the air was cool and the sound of the birds in the trees offered a quiet comfort. Lily’s mind was still racing from the events of the day, but her mother’s voice broke through her thoughts.

“Lily,” her mother said softly, “I need you to remember something, something important.”

Lily glanced at her, noticing the seriousness in her mother’s eyes. Her mother’s words had a way of staying with her, so she slowed her pace, giving her full attention.

“Don’t ever let anyone treat you badly,” her mother continued, her voice firm but caring. “No matter how much they have, no matter how much they seem to offer. A person’s wealth doesn’t make them worth more than your heart. Don’t you ever let anyone make you feel small, Lily. Not even if they try to charm you with everything they own.”

Lily felt a lump form in her throat, the weight of her mother’s words settling deep within her. She had always trusted her mother, and now, more than ever, she understood the depth of what she was saying. Her mother wasn’t just talking about money; she was talking about respect, self-worth, and the kind of love Lily deserved.

“I understand, Mama,” Lily whispered, a new strength blossoming in her chest. She promised herself then that no one—rich or poor—would ever make her feel less than what she was worth.

THE ARRANGEMENT

It was dinner time and the whole family except for the father were in the dining table having their dinner,

"I hope all still remember that next week we are going to the village to see grandma,so please make sure u all gets prepare as early as possible and in case u need to buy anything give me the budget"said the mother as she looked at her two sons,  "mom not again,we just went there last year, and I still haven't forgotten how that place sucks"conplained Ethan , "Ethan u better have so manners,how dare u say your grandmother' place suck"said the mother angrily. Ben the older brother interrupted"sorry mom about that, Ethan u better mind your words next time ok" Ethan stood up and went fo his room angrily,

"Gosh I hate that place "he said as he throw himself on his Bed, his phone started ringing and it was his girlfriend called Cotilda, he pick up the phone

Cotilda:Hellow baby

Ethan :Hi

Cotilda:Aaah I miss u soooo much baby ,it has been three days now

Ethan:Yeah, and I'm in a very bad mood ,call me later

Cotilda:Hey,what's wrong?

Ethan:I said call me later, Is that so hard  to understand?

Cotilda:but I'm your girlfriend Ethan ,please tellme what's wrong

Ethan:Gudnyt

Ethan hanged up the phone and threw it on the table, "some girls are so stubborn, she is not even my type, I never loved her"he said while closing his eyes.

Scene: Arrival at the Village

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the dusty village road as the sleek, black SUV rolled into view. Its polished surface gleamed, reflecting the curious eyes of villagers who paused their chores to watch the unfamiliar, luxurious car approach. Children stopped mid-play, their laughter fading into whispers of excitement, while elders squinted from their porches, murmuring amongst themselves.

As the car slowed to a stop in front of the old family house, its shiny rims kicking up a small cloud of dust, Ethan's mother, Grace, stepped out first. She adjusted her designer sunglasses and stretched, smiling warmly at the gathering crowd. Ben followed, his face lighting up as he spotted familiar faces. Their father, Mr. Carter, gave a polite nod to the villagers before opening the back door.

But Ethan? He sat there, arms crossed, his jaw clenched tight. The tension in his shoulders was obvious, and his piercing gaze remained fixed on the cracked screen of his phone, though he wasn’t really looking at anything. The joyful noise outside grated on his nerves.

“Ethan, we’re here,” Grace said softly, peeking into the car.

Without a word, Ethan shoved the door open and stepped out, his expensive sneakers landing awkwardly on the uneven, dusty ground. He didn’t glance at the villagers, didn’t acknowledge the kids waving excitedly, and most of all, he didn’t spare a glance at the frail, elderly woman standing by the doorway—their grandmother, her eyes shining with tears of happiness.

“My boy!” she called out, her voice trembling with joy. But Ethan brushed past her like she was invisible, his face a mask of irritation.

He stomped into the house, his footsteps heavy on the wooden floorboards. A door slammed a moment later, sending a ripple of silence through the cheerful crowd.

The grandmother’s smile faltered, her eyes darting to Grace, confusion and hurt clouding her expression.

Grace quickly moved to her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. “Mama, don’t mind him,” she said with a sigh, forcing a light chuckle. “He’s always like that.”

The grandmother nodded slowly, though the worry didn’t leave her eyes. The villagers, sensing the tension, began to disperse, their whispers lingering in the air like dust after the SUV’s arrival.

Inside his room, Ethan threw himself onto the bed, staring at the cracked ceiling. The sounds of laughter and reunion outside felt like an echo from another world—one he wanted nothing to do with.

Scene: The First Encounter

The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the small, quiet neighborhood. Lily balanced a basket of warm food in her hands as she approached the old, ivy-covered house at the end of the lane. Her mother had insisted she deliver dinner to Mrs. Donovan, Ethan’s grandmother, who lived alone since her health had begun to decline.

Lily knocked gently on the door, waiting for the familiar creak of hinges. When no one answered, she tried the handle—it gave way easily.

“Mrs. Donovan?” Lily called softly as she stepped inside. The house smelled of lavender and old books, a comforting scent she remembered from past visits. But today, it felt different. Quieter.

As she moved towards the kitchen, her shoulder suddenly collided with something solid—someone solid. The basket in her hands wobbled, nearly toppling, but she managed to steady it.

“Watch where you’re going!” a sharp voice snapped.

Lily looked up, startled. Before her stood a young man, his piercing gray eyes narrowed in annoyance. His dark hair was tousled, and there was an edge to his posture that made her bristle.

“You bumped into me,” she retorted, raising an eyebrow. “Maybe you should watch where you’re going.”

Ethan scoffed, stepping closer. “Do you always barge into people’s homes and start mouthing off?”

Lily’s eyes flashed with defiance. “I’m here to bring food for your grandmother. Maybe try being a little less of a jerk.”

That was the moment Ethan’s patience snapped. Without warning, he grabbed her wrist, twisting it just enough to make her gasp. His grip was firm, his expression cold.

“Apologize,” he growled, his voice low and dangerous.

Lily’s heart pounded in her chest, but she refused to let fear show on her face. She clenched her jaw, staring him down. “Let. Me. Go.”

For a tense moment, neither of them moved, their eyes locked in a silent battle of wills. Then, as if realizing his own aggression, Ethan’s grip loosened. He released her hand abruptly, as though burned.

“Whatever,” he muttered, stepping back. “Just stay out of my way.”

Lily rubbed her wrist, her glare never wavering. “Gladly.”

She turned on her heel, marching towards the kitchen, leaving Ethan standing there, his heart unexpectedly racing—not from anger, but from something he couldn’t quite name.

Lily gently places the hotpot on Mrs. Donovan’s worn-out table, the rich aroma of freshly cooked food filling the small room. Mrs. Donovan, a frail old woman with kind eyes, thanks her warmly, but Lily can’t shake off the tension from earlier.

INTRODUCTION

Ethan Hawthorne has it all—good looks, wealth, a prestigious family, and a life of luxury. But there’s one thing he can’t stand: the small, quiet village where his grandmother lives. Every summer, his parents insist on visiting her, but Ethan’s not having it. The village is old, outdated, and, in his eyes, beneath him. He’s used to the fast-paced, high-society life of the city, and the last thing he wants is to be stuck in a rural place with nothing to do but suffer through the heat and boredom. His kind brother, Ben, is always eager to visit Grandma, but Ethan only agrees to go out of obligation—his father, a stern, no-nonsense man, expects it.

The moment they arrive, Ethan’s disdain is apparent. The village is nothing like the grand estates he’s used to, and he’s determined to make the best of it by being as miserable as possible. But things take an unexpected turn when he bumps into a local girl named Lily.

Lily is a beautiful kind girl with every kind of good manners,if I were to compare her beauty with something then I will definitely say that she look just like a colorful butterfly,no girl in her village could be compared with her, she had big eyes with long lashes, a sedative mouth, she had a chocolate skin color that made her look even more prettier, and a wonder eight figure.

lily lived with her very talkative and strict mother, her dad died when she was 2 years so she never knew wat it feels like to have a father, she couldn't precede with her education since her mom had no money so ever since she finished standard seven she stay home and helped her mom with her food selling business.

Lily's mother was very close to Ethan's grandmother, she always supported her and helped her in small stuffs, she even sometimes told lily to take some food to her whenever she felt like the grandmother was no well to do some cooking