Chapter 2: First Notes
The next class period rolled around, and Ethan found himself sitting at his desk, staring blankly at the whiteboard. His mind was racing, and it was clear that something was bothering him. His usual calm demeanor had been replaced by a tense, almost brooding expression.
The next class period rolled around, and Ethan found himself sitting at his desk, fuming with anger. His mind replayed the earlier conversation with Rowan, who had politely but firmly declined Ethan's offer to join the band. The rejection stung more than Ethan had expected, and he couldn't shake the frustration.
Mia and Jack, noticing Ethan's unusually tense demeanor, approached him with concern. "Hey, Ethan, what's going on? You seem really upset," Mia asked gently.
Ethan's frustration boiled over. He clenched his fists and slammed them onto the desk, causing a few heads to turn in their direction. "He rejected me!" Ethan practically shouted, his voice filled with a mix of anger and disbelief.
Mia and Jack exchanged confused glances. Jack chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Whoa, Ethan. Do you have a crush or something?"
Ethan quickly shut that down, his irritation evident. "No, I was talking about Rowan!"
Mia smirked, unable to resist teasing him. "Oh, so you like Rowan, huh?"
Ethan shut that down even quicker, his frustration boiling over again. "No! Rowan rejected my offer to join the band!"
Mia and Jack finally understood, their expressions shifting to one of empathy. "Oh, that sucks," Mia said, placing a comforting hand on Ethan's shoulder. "But don't let it get you down. There's always a way to turn things around."
Jack chimed in, trying to offer a different perspective. "Maybe he had a reason for saying no. Did you ask him why?"
Ethan's expression remained stormy as he shook his head. "No, I didn't. But it's still frustrating."
Jack nodded, understanding Ethan's frustration. "I get that. But maybe there's something going on with him that we don't know about."
Mia added, "Yeah, maybe if you talk to him again, you'll get a better understanding. It might help."
Despite their attempts to calm him down, Ethan's anger persisted. He abruptly stood up, his chair scraping loudly against the floor.
"I need to get out of here," Ethan muttered, heading for the door.
The teacher, noticing Ethan's movement, called out sternly, "Ethan, you can't leave in the middle of class!"
Ethan paused at the doorway, his shoulders tense with unresolved frustration. He turned back, meeting the teacher's gaze with a stormy expression, but he didn't say anything. For a moment, it seemed like he might heed the teacher's warning, but the need to clear his head was overwhelming.
With a final glance back at his friends, Ethan pushed open the door and stepped out, leaving the classroom behind.
With a final glance back at his friends, Ethan pushed open the door and stepped out, leaving the classroom behind. The teacher stood there, momentarily stunned by Ethan's bold move.
Jack couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. "Well, I'll be damned. He actually has some balls."
Mia smirked, nudging Jack with her elbow. "Guess we underestimated him."
The teacher, regaining composure, called out after Ethan, but it was clear that he wasn't coming back anytime soon. The classroom buzzed with whispers and curious glances.
Ethan walked out of the classroom, his mind still swirling with frustration and disappointment. He needed a place to clear his head, and he knew just the spot. He made his way through the school hallways, avoiding the curious glances from other students.
Eventually, he reached the gym's storage room stairwell—a quiet, secluded spot where he often went to nap or think. As he approached, he noticed the door was slightly ajar. Pushing it open gently, he stepped inside.
To his surprise, he saw Rowan sitting on the stairs, fast asleep. Rowan was clutching the guitar Ethan had given him, holding it close like a cherished possession. The sight softened Ethan's anger, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for his earlier outburst.
Ethan quietly sat down on the stairs across from Rowan
Ethan quietly sat down on the stairs across from Rowan, watching him sleep for a moment. The sight of Rowan clutching the guitar should have softened his anger, but the frustration still simmered just beneath the surface.
He let out a sigh and leaned his head back against the wall, feeling the weight of the day's events pressing down on him. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't shake the sense of disappointment and irritation that lingered from Rowan's rejection.
Ethan shifted slightly, laying down on the stairwell, his head resting on his arm. He closed his eyes, hoping to find some solace in sleep. The quiet of the storage room stairwell provided a semblance of peace, but his mind continued to churn with unresolved emotions.
As he lay there, Ethan tried to focus on the sound of his own breathing, willing himself to relax. He knew he needed to let go of his anger and find a way to move forward, but for now, he just needed a moment to escape from it all.
Eventually, exhaustion began to take over, and Ethan felt himself drifting off, the tension in his body slowly easing. The last thing he heard before succumbing to sleep was the gentle rhythm of Rowan's breathing.
An hour passed, and the quiet of the storage room stairwell remained undisturbed. Ethan's sleep had been restless, filled with fragments of dreams and lingering frustrations. As he lay there, a faint sensation began to pull him from his slumber.
He felt a gentle poke on his face, then another. Slowly, he opened his eyes to find Rowan crouched next to him, poking his cheek with a curious expression. "Ethan, wake up," Rowan mumbled, his voice soft but insistent.
Ethan blinked a few times, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. He looked up at Rowan, still clutching the guitar, and couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. The earlier anger was still there, but it was tempered by the sight of his persistent student.
"Hey, Rowan," Ethan said, his voice groggy. "What's up?"
Rowan gave a small smile, his eyes filled with concern. "You fell asleep. I wanted to make sure you were okay."
Ethan sighed, sitting up and running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just needed to clear my head."
Rowan nodded, still holding the guitar close. The silence between them was comfortable, and for a moment, Ethan felt a sense of calm.
"Can I still watch your rehearsals after school?" Rowan asked quietly, breaking the silence.
Ethan looked at him, surprised by the request. He felt a wave of hesitation, his frustration and disappointment urging him to say no. But as he looked into Rowan's earnest eyes, he couldn't bring himself to deny the request.
"Yeah, of course." Ethan found himself saying, surprising even himself with the words.
Rowan's smile widened, and Ethan felt a renewed sense of purpose. Maybe there was still a way to connect with Rowan and reignite his own passion for music.
Ethan reached for his guitar case, which he had brought along just in case he found a moment to play. He opened the case, revealing the well-worn instrument that had been his companion for so many years. Sitting back down on the stairs, Ethan gently took the guitar out and began tuning it, the familiar process bringing a sense of calm.
Rowan watched quietly, still holding his own guitar. The sight of Ethan tuning his instrument seemed to reassure him, and he took a seat nearby, ready to observe and learn.
As Ethan adjusted the strings, he allowed himself to relax, letting the frustration of the day melt away. The act of tuning his guitar was almost meditative, each note bringing him closer to a state of balance. He glanced over at Rowan, who was watching intently, and gave a small nod.
Ethan reached into his bag and pulled out his trusty notebook, filled with scribbled musical notes. Flipping through the pages, he found the melody he had been trying to perfect for what felt like forever.
With a deep breath, Ethan began playing the melody, his fingers moving deftly over the strings. The familiar chords filled the stairwell, creating an intimate and soothing atmosphere. Rowan watched intently, absorbing every note.
Despite Ethan's best efforts, the melody still felt incomplete. He played it over and over, trying to find the missing piece that would bring it all together. Each time he thought he was close, the elusive note seemed to slip through his fingers.
Ethan kept playing the melody, each chord and note echoing through the stairwell. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't help but feel like he was "messing up" each time. But he refused to stop, determined to find that elusive piece of the puzzle.
As he reached his last run-through, a soft humming filled the air. Ethan glanced up, surprised to see Rowan humming along to the melody. The sound was gentle but perfectly in tune, adding a new layer to the music.
Ethan stopped playing, staring at Rowan in surprise. An idea suddenly hit him, a spark of inspiration that brought a newfound clarity. Without saying a word, he continued playing the song, this time with renewed determination.
Rowan's humming blended seamlessly with the chords, creating a harmony that brought the melody to life.
Ethan kept playing, feeling the harmony with Rowan's humming bringing the melody to life. For the first time in a long while, he felt like he was truly creating something special.
As the period came to an end, the sound of the school bell echoed through the stairwell, signaling the start of the next class. Ethan reluctantly stopped playing and began packing up his guitar and notebook. He glanced over at Rowan, who leaned back against the railing, seemingly lost in thought.
Ethan stood up and slung his guitar case over his shoulder. "Aren't you going to class?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Rowan simply nodded no, his expression calm and resolute.
Ethan hesitated for a moment, feeling a mix of concern and curiosity. "Alright, suit yourself," he said, giving Rowan a small nod before heading towards the door.
Ethan left the stairwell, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions and new ideas. As the door closed behind him, Rowan remained seated on the stairs, clutching his guitar. The room grew silent once more, and Rowan stared down at the instrument in his hands.
The weight he usually hides finally caught up to him, and tears began to well up in his eyes. He tried to hold them back, but the emotions were too strong. Silent sobs shook his shoulders as he cried, the guitar still held tightly in his grasp.
The school day finally came to an end, and the halls were filled with the usual hustle and bustle of students heading home. Ethan packed up his things.
The school day finally came to an end, and the halls were filled with the usual hustle and bustle of students heading home. Ethan packed up his things, still processing the events of the day and the unexpected connection he had formed with Rowan.
As he walked out of the building, he noticed Rowan standing at the school entrance, staring silently into space. Ethan paused for a moment, watching Rowan's still figure. He could sense that something was off.
Ethan walked up to Rowan, concern evident in his voice. "Hey, are you alright?"
Rowan slowly turned to look at Ethan and simply nodded, his expression unreadable. Without saying a word, he began walking off, heading towards the parking lot.
Ethan followed Rowan at a distance, his concern growing with each step. As they reached the edge of the school grounds, Ethan caught up to him, hoping to break the silence.
"Hey, Rowan," Ethan began, trying to sound casual. "Why don't we take the train instead of the bus? It'll be quicker to get to the studio."
Rowan's reaction was immediate and firm. He shook his head quickly, his expression shutting down any further discussion on the matter.
Ethan was taken aback by the intensity of Rowan's response but decided not to press the issue. Instead, he fell into step beside Rowan, respecting his need for space. The journey to the studio would take a bit longer, but Ethan was willing to take the time if it meant understanding Rowan better.
Ethan and Rowan continued their walk to the bus station, the silence slowly giving way to small talk. As they reached the bus stop, Ethan tried to lighten the mood.
"Hey, did you hear about that new music store opening downtown?" Ethan asked, attempting to spark a conversation.
Rowan nodded slightly, his expression still a bit downcast but appreciative of Ethan's effort. "Yeah," he replied softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
The bus finally pulled up, and they boarded together. With only one seat available, Ethan suggested, "Why don't you take the seat?" Rowan nodded and sat down while Ethan stood in front of him, holding onto the overhead rail.
As the bus began to move, Ethan continued to chat, hoping to lift Rowan's spirits. "You know, I've been thinking about that melody we've been working on. I think we're really close to nailing it."
Rowan nodded again, a hint of a smile playing at his lips. "Maybe," he said quietly.
Ethan chuckled. "Doesn't everything? But seriously, I think with your humming, we might have something special."
Rowan looked up, meeting Ethan's eyes for a moment before glancing back down. "Thanks, Ethan," he mumbled. "It's been a tough day."
Ethan nodded, understanding. "I get it. We all have those days. But we'll get through it, alright?"
As the bus rolled through the city, the soft hum of the engine and the occasional chatter of passengers provided a background to Ethan and Rowan's quiet interaction. Ethan glanced down at Rowan, who was still looking out the window, seemingly lost in thought.
Rowan then looked up at Ethan, their eyes meeting. The intensity in Rowan's gaze was unmistakable. "I’ll join," Rowan said softly, breaking the silence.
Ethan furrowed his brow in confusion. "What are you talking about?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.
Rowan took a deep breath and repeated, "I’ll join the band."
Just as the words left Rowan's lips, the bus came to a halt at their stop. Ethan's heart skipped a beat, a surge of excitement washing over him. He quickly grabbed his guitar case and stepped off the bus, with Rowan following close behind.
The realization hit Ethan all at once, and he couldn't help but grin. "You're serious? You’re going to join the band?"
Rowan nodded, a small smile forming on his face. Ethan's excitement was contagious, and for the first time in a while, he felt a renewed sense of hope and purpose.
Ethan and Rowan walked toward the studio, the excitement and determination palpable between them. As they approached the entrance, they were greeted by Kameryn, the receptionist, who was busy organizing some paperwork behind the desk.
"Hey, Ethan! What's up?" Kameryn called out with a friendly wave. Her eyes flickered with curiosity as she noticed Rowan beside him.
"Hey, Kameryn," Ethan replied with a grin. "We're just heading in for some practice."
Kameryn's smile widened as she glanced at Rowan. "Oh, hey Rowan! Sorry, I totally forgot we met before. How have you been?"
Rowan gave a small nod and a polite smile. "I've been alright," he said softly.
"Glad to hear it," Kameryn responded warmly. "Welcome back! Hope you both have a great session."
Ethan and Rowan walked into the building, exchanging a nod with Kameryn as they made their way to the elevator. The ride up was filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. Ethan glanced over at Rowan, who seemed more relaxed than before, despite the weight of the day's events.
As the elevator doors opened, they stepped out and made their way down the hall to their studio space. Pushing the door open, they were greeted by Alex and Jamie, who were already setting up their instruments.
"Hey, guys!" Alex called out, waving enthusiastically. His bright green eyes sparkled in the light. "Glad you could make it. Ready to make some magic happen?"
Jamie Lin looked up from adjusting his drum kit, offering a warm smile. "Hey, Ethan. Rowan. How's it going?"
Ethan grinned, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Pretty good. We've got some new ideas to work on."
Alex and Jamie exchanged a quick glance, then Jamie said, "Cool, Rowan. Watching again?"
Ethan shook his head, his smile widening. "Actually, no. Rowan's joining the band!"
There was a brief moment of silence as Alex and Jamie looked at each other, their expressions a mix of surprise and uncertainty. Jamie adjusted his glasses, still processing the news. "He's... joining the band?" he asked softly.
Rowan nodded, a small but determined smile on his face. Alex scratched the back of his head, trying to hide his skepticism. "Well, that's unexpected. But hey, if Ethan believes in you, I'm willing to give it a shot."
Jamie nodded slowly, his thoughtful gaze shifting between Ethan and Rowan. "Yeah, let's see what you can do."
Ethan, Alex, Jamie, and Rowan began setting up their instruments, the room filled with an air of anticipation. They exchanged a few final adjustments and nods of readiness before launching into their first song.
Ethan started playing the familiar chords of the melody they had been working on, Alex joining in with his bass, providing a steady rhythm, and Jamie adding his intricate beats on the drums. Rowan watched for a moment before stepping up to the microphone, his guitar slung over his shoulder.
As the music filled the room, Ethan kept an eye on Rowan, curious to see how he would integrate into the band. Then, to everyone's surprise, Rowan began to sing:
"Lost in the echoes, I hear your voice, Guiding me through the noise, Falling apart, but I'll find my way, With you, I won't lose my choice."
His voice was soft but clear, carrying a raw emotion that resonated deeply with the music.
Alex and Jamie exchanged shocked glances, their playing faltering for a moment as they processed what they were hearing. Rowan's voice added a new dimension to the song, bringing it to life in a way they hadn't anticipated.
Ethan couldn't help but smile as he continued playing, feeling the energy in the room shift. Rowan's singing was unexpected but undeniably powerful, and it was clear that he had a natural talent that complemented their sound perfectly.
As the song came to an end, the room fell silent for a moment, everyone absorbing what had just happened. Alex was the first to break the silence, grinning from ear to ear. "Well, damn. That was amazing, Rowan."
Jamie nodded in agreement, his thoughtful gaze now filled with admiration. "Yeah, seriously. You've got an incredible voice."
Rowan blushed slightly, looking down at his guitar. "Thanks," he said softly. "I just... felt like I needed to sing."
Ethan clapped Rowan on the shoulder, his excitement palpable. "We're glad you did. Welcome to the band, Rowan."
As the excitement from their practice session began to settle, the band members gathered around, taking a moment to catch their breath. They grabbed some water and settled into a comfortable circle, the camaraderie among them palpable.
Alex, ever the outgoing one, leaned back in his chair and stretched. "So, have you guys heard about the AMC? The Amateur Music Contest?"
Rowan glanced around, clearly confused. "AMC? What's that?" he asked softly.
Jamie adjusted his glasses, a thoughtful look on his face. "It's this big annual music competition for up-and-coming bands. It's a pretty big deal around here."
Alex nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, it's a great platform for exposure. The winners get a chance to record an album and perform at some major events. Plus, it's a lot of fun."
Ethan's eyes lit up with excitement. "We've been talking about entering for a while now. It's a fantastic opportunity to get our music out there and see how we stack up against other bands."
As the band continued discussing their plans for the AMC, they decided it was time to address a crucial point with Rowan. Jamie, always the thoughtful one, began the conversation.
"Rowan, you were incredible today," Jamie said, adjusting his glasses. "But there's something we need to talk about."
Rowan looked up, slightly concerned. "What is it?" he asked softly.
Alex leaned forward, his bright green eyes serious for once. "You're a natural talent, no doubt about that. But just being good won't be enough for a competition like the AMC."
Ethan nodded in agreement, his expression earnest. "We need to put in a lot of hard work and practice. It's about refining our skills and pushing ourselves to be the best we can be."
Jamie continued, his voice gentle but firm. "It's not just about playing and singing well. It's about stage presence, connecting with the audience, and delivering a performance that stands out."
Rowan listened intently, nodding slowly. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes to improve and be ready."
Alex smiled, clapping Rowan on the shoulder. "That's the spirit. We're all in this together, and we'll help each other grow."
As the band continued discussing their plans for the AMC, they decided it was time to address a crucial point with Rowan. Jamie, always the thoughtful one, began the conversation.
"Rowan, you were incredible today," Jamie said, adjusting his glasses. "But there's something we need to talk about."
Rowan looked up, slightly concerned. "What is it?" he asked softly.
Alex leaned forward, his bright green eyes serious for once. "You're a natural talent, no doubt about that. But just being good won't be enough for a competition like the AMC."
Ethan nodded in agreement, his expression earnest. "We need to put in a lot of hard work and practice. It's about refining our skills and pushing ourselves to be the best we can be."
Jamie continued, his voice gentle but firm. "It's not just about playing and singing well. It's about stage presence, connecting with the audience, and delivering a performance that stands out."
Rowan listened intently, nodding slowly. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes to improve and be ready."
Alex smiled, clapping Rowan on the shoulder. "That's the spirit. Look at Ethan. He had natural talent too, and he's actually pretty popular around here because of it. But even he had to work really hard to get where he is."
Ethan's eyes sparkled with determination. "Yeah, it's true. Talent can only take you so far. The rest is all about dedication and effort."
Jamie added, "We're all in this together, and we'll help each other grow."
Rowan's face lit up with a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, guys. I'll give it my all."
As the practice session came to an end, the band members began packing up their instruments and tidying up the studio. The energy in the room was still electric from their successful practice, but everyone was ready for a bit of a break.
"Great job today, everyone," Ethan said, his voice filled with pride. "Let's call it a day."
Alex and Jamie nodded in agreement, and the two of them decided to step outside for a smoke break. They found a quiet spot just outside the studio, the cool evening air providing a welcome contrast to the intensity of their practice.
Jamie lit a cigarette and leaned against the wall, his thoughtful gaze drifting over the cityscape. Alex joined him, pulling the hair tie from his blond locks, letting his hair fall loose around his shoulders.
Jamie, with a curious glint in his eye, reached out and grabbed a strand of Alex's hair. "Why do you keep it so long?" he asked, his voice casual but genuinely interested.
Alex felt his heart skip a beat, the touch sending a jolt through him. He shrugged, trying to keep his cool. "I guess I just like it this way. Plus, it adds to the whole rockstar look, right?"
Jamie chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, it suits you. Makes you look even more like a badass on stage."
Alex couldn't help but smile, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Thanks, man. Means a lot coming from you."
They fell into a comfortable silence, the only sounds being the distant hum of traffic and the soft crackle of their cigarettes. Alex couldn't help but steal a few glances at Jamie.
As Alex and Jamie finished their smoke break, the tranquility was interrupted by the sound of Jamie's phone ringing. He pulled it out and glanced at the screen, his expression immediately souring as he saw the caller ID: "Jackass Liam."
Jamie let out an exasperated groan. "Great, it's him again," he muttered, rolling his eyes.
Alex finished his cigarette, brushing his hair behind his ear as he watched Jamie with a mixture of curiosity and concern. Jamie answered the phone, his voice strained. "What do you want, Liam?"
He began walking away from Alex, pacing back and forth as he listened to the caller on the other end. Alex couldn't hear the conversation, but he could sense the tension in Jamie's posture and tone.
As Jamie continued talking, Alex leaned against the wall, trying to appear nonchalant while keeping an eye on his friend. He had no idea who Liam was, but it was clear that this person was causing Jamie a lot of stress.
After a few minutes, Jamie hung up the phone, his expression a mix of frustration and weariness. He walked back over to Alex, who had just finished brushing his hair back into place.
"Sorry about that," Jamie said, his voice tinged with annoyance. "Liam's being a pain, as usual."
Alex gave him a sympathetic look. "It's alright, man. Who's Liam, anyway?"
Jamie sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "He's my... sort-of boyfriend. It's complicated. We've been on and off for a while now, and he always seems to bring drama into my life."
Alex nodded slowly, trying to process the information. "Got it. Sounds rough. If you ever need to talk, I'm here for you."
Jamie appreciated the offer, giving Alex a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Alex. I might take you up on that sometime."
As the conversation with Alex came to a close, Jamie checked his watch and realized it was time for him to head out. "I better get going. See you tomorrow, Alex," he said with a tired but genuine smile.
Alex nodded, watching as Jamie walked off toward the parking lot. "Yeah, see you, Jamie. Take care," he replied, still processing their earlier conversation.
Jamie got into his car and started the engine, waving one last time before driving away. As the sound of the engine faded into the distance, Alex stood there for a moment, reflecting on everything that had been said.
He leaned back against the wall and sighed deeply, running a hand through his tousled blond hair. The word "boyfriend" echoed in his mind, and it suddenly hit him with full force. Jamie had said "boyfriend." Alex felt a mix of emotions—surprise, concern, and something else he couldn't quite place.
As Alex headed back into the studio, deep in thought, he barely noticed Ethan and Rowan walking by. Lost in his own world, he leaned against the wall for a moment, taking a deep breath.
Ethan and Rowan, chatting quietly about their practice session, noticed Alex standing there, seemingly lost in thought. Concerned, Ethan walked over, his voice filled with genuine care. "Hey, Alex. You alright?"
Alex, startled out of his reverie, jumped slightly. "Oh, hey, Ethan. Rowan. Didn't see you there," he said, trying to shake off his thoughts.
Rowan looked at him with a hint of concern. “Everything okay?" Ethan asked, walking a bit closer to Alex.
Alex forced a smile, not wanting to burden his friends with his worries. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... a lot on my mind."
Ethan gave him a reassuring pat on the back. "You know we're here for you, right? Whatever it is, you don't have to go through it alone."
Alex nodded, appreciating the support. "Thanks, guys. I really appreciate it."
As Ethan and Rowan continued their walk from the studio, the cool night air wrapped around them. They reached the bus stop, only to see the tail lights of the last bus of the night disappearing around the corner.
Ethan sighed, realizing their predicament. "Looks like we missed the last bus," he said, glancing at his watch. "We could take the train instead. It'll be quicker to get home."
Rowan immediately shook his head, his expression firm. "No, I'll walk," he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
Ethan looked at him, concern etched on his face. "You sure? It's a pretty long walk."
Rowan nodded, his gaze steady. "Yeah. I need the time to clear my head."
Ethan respected Rowan's decision, even though he was worried. "Alright. I'll walk with you then."
As Ethan and Rowan walked through the quiet streets, the silence between them was comfortable, with only the occasional car passing by and the soft glow of streetlights illuminating their path.
Ethan glanced at Rowan, deciding it was a good time to bring up something important. "You know, Rowan," he began casually, "I was thinking... Have you ever considered getting a part-time job?"
Rowan looked at Ethan, clearly caught off guard by the suggestion. "A part-time job?" he repeated softly, uncertainty in his voice.
Ethan nodded, trying to be encouraging. "Yeah. Everyone in the band has one. It helps us buy the necessary things for the band, like equipment, studio time, and stuff like that. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to have a bit of extra cash."
Rowan's expression was thoughtful as he processed Ethan's words. "I hadn't really thought about it," he admitted.
Ethan smiled, hoping to reassure him. "It doesn't have to be anything too intense. Just something to help out. Alex works at a local music store, and Jamie tutors math part-time. I work at a café. It's a good way to stay connected to the music scene and meet new people too."
Rowan nodded slowly, considering the idea. "I see. I guess I could look into it," he said softly.
Ethan clapped him on the shoulder. "Great! We're all in this together, and every little bit helps. Plus, it'll be a good experience."
As Ethan and Rowan continued their walk, they passed by a cozy-looking café, the warm light spilling out onto the sidewalk. Inside, a few patrons were enjoying late-night snacks and drinks. Ethan was in the middle of talking about a new song idea when something unexpected happened.
A person sitting by the window, enjoying a donut, suddenly jumped up and ran to the door. "Rowan!" they called out, their voice filled with excitement.
Rowan instantly froze, his eyes widening as he recognized the voice. Ethan stopped as well, glancing between Rowan and the person now standing at the café door.
The person, a friend from Rowan's past, looked thrilled to see him. "Rowan, where have you been? It's been ages!" they asked, their smile bright and genuine.
Rowan's face paled, and he seemed completely frozen, unable to respond. His eyes darted around, looking for an escape. The sudden encounter left him feeling overwhelmed and caught off guard.
Ethan noticed Rowan's discomfort and stepped forward, trying to ease the situation. "Hey, I'm Ethan. Rowan and I are just heading home from a practice session."
The friend nodded, their excitement still evident, but now mixed with concern. "Nice to meet you, Ethan. Rowan and I go way back. Are you okay, Rowan?"
Rowan remained silent, staring straight ahead, his eyes unfocused. Tears began to well up, blurring his vision. He hadn't expected to confront these emotions tonight.
"Why did you just vanish after Jordan's…. You know?" Daniel asked, his tone turning serious.
The mention of Jordan's name hit Rowan like a punch to the gut. He froze for a moment before slowly turning to face Daniel, his expression shifting from shock to anger. "Why the hell would you bring that up?" he snapped, his voice trembling with a mixture of grief and rage.
Ethan, taken aback, had never seen Rowan act like this before. He stood there, speechless, trying to process the sudden outburst.
Daniel took a step back, clearly taken aback by Rowan's intensity. "I'm sorry, I just—"
Rowan cut him off, his voice rising. "You have no right to ask me that. You don't know what it was like for me!" His fists clenched at his sides, the pain of Jordan’s name resurfacing like a vengeance.
Daniel tried to explain, but Rowan's anger only grew. "You don't understand, Daniel! You never did!" he yelled, the tears now streaming down his face.
Ethan watched in shock as Rowan continued to lash out, his anger and grief pouring out in a torrent of emotions. Before anyone could react, Rowan pushed Daniel away and ran off, his footsteps echoing in the night.
Ethan didn't hesitate. As soon as Rowan bolted away from the café, he took off after him, calling his name. "Rowan! Wait!"
Rowan, consumed by his emotions, didn't hear Ethan's pleas. He ran, tears streaming down his face, his mind a whirlwind of grief and anger. The streets blurred past him as he sprinted, desperate to escape the memories that had been dredged up.
Ethan pushed himself to keep up, his heart pounding with worry for his friend. As he rounded a corner, he saw Rowan trip over an uneven part of the sidewalk and fall hard to the ground. Rowan cried out in pain but quickly scrambled to his feet, refusing to stop.
"Rowan, please!" Ethan shouted, desperation in his voice. He closed the distance between them, watching as Rowan stumbled but kept running, his determination fueled by raw emotion.
Eventually, Rowan's pace slowed, his injured leg giving out beneath him. He fell again, this time unable to get back up. Ethan finally caught up, breathing heavily as he knelt beside his friend.
"Rowan, it's okay. I'm here," Ethan said softly, his voice filled with concern. He gently placed a hand on Rowan's shoulder, offering comfort.
Rowan's sobs wracked his body, and he clutched his injured leg, the pain and anguish overwhelming him. "I can't... I can't do this," he choked out between sobs.
Ethan wrapped his arm around Rowan, pulling him into a comforting embrace. "You don't have to go through this alone," he whispered. "We'll get through it together."
Ethan held Rowan tightly, feeling the weight of his friend's anguish. Rowan's sobs grew louder, and he buried his face in Ethan's shoulder, tears streaming down his cheeks. Ethan's heart ached for him, wishing he could take away the pain.
"It's okay, Rowan," Ethan whispered, his voice soothing. "Let it out. I'm here."
Rowan clung to Ethan, his body shaking with each sob. The emotions he had been holding back for so long finally poured out, a torrent of grief and pain that had been too overwhelming to face alone.
Ethan continued to hold him, offering silent support. He knew that sometimes, the best thing he could do was simply be there, providing a safe space for Rowan to release his emotions.
As the minutes passed, Rowan's sobs gradually began to subside, and he took deep, shuddering breaths, trying to calm himself. Ethan didn't let go, his presence a steady anchor in the storm of emotions.
After what felt like an eternity, Rowan finally pulled back slightly, wiping his tear-streaked face with the back of his hand. He looked at Ethan, gratitude and vulnerability evident in his eyes.
Ethan looked at him with concern and understanding. "Come on," he said gently. "Let's head to my house. It's just down the street."
Rowan nodded, unable to speak but grateful for Ethan's suggestion. Ethan wrapped an arm around Rowan's shoulders, providing support as they started walking. The night air was cool and calm, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions they had just experienced.
As they made their way to Ethan's house, the silence between them was filled with an unspoken understanding. Rowan leaned on Ethan, finding comfort in his friend's unwavering presence.
Once they were inside Ethan's house, Ethan guided Rowan to the living room and motioned for him to sit on the couch. He tossed Rowan a bottle of water and sat down beside him. Rowan, still shaken and unable to speak, opened the bottle and took a few sips, appreciating the cool liquid.
Feeling a wave of exhaustion, Rowan leaned against Ethan's shoulder, finding comfort in his friend's presence. Ethan gently patted Rowan's back, offering silent reassurance. He then reached for his guitar, which had been slung over his back throughout their walk.
Ethan began to strum softly, the familiar chords filling the room with a soothing melody. The gentle music provided a calming atmosphere, helping to ease Rowan's tumultuous emotions. As Ethan played, he watched Rowan's tense posture gradually relax, the music acting as a balm for his troubled soul.
Rowan closed his eyes, letting the soothing notes wash over him. Ethan's playing was both comforting and uplifting, a reminder that he wasn't alone in his struggles. The bond between them grew stronger with each strum of the guitar, the silent understanding between them speaking volumes.
As Ethan's soothing melody filled the room, Rowan's breathing began to steady, and his eyelids grew heavier. The comforting presence of his friend and the gentle strumming of the guitar lulled him into a peaceful state.
Before long, Rowan's head rested more heavily against Ethan's shoulder, and his eyes fluttered closed. He had finally succumbed to the exhaustion of the night's emotional turmoil.
Ethan continued to play softly for a few more moments, ensuring Rowan was truly asleep. When he was confident that Rowan was resting peacefully, he set his guitar aside and carefully shifted to make sure Rowan was comfortable.
Ethan looked at Rowan, a soft smile spreading across his face. Seeing his friend finally at peace after such a tumultuous night brought a sense of relief. He knew Rowan had a long road ahead in dealing with his grief and emotions, but he also knew that with the support of friends, he wouldn't have to face it alone.
As Ethan sat beside Rowan, he noticed a small strand of hair had fallen across Rowan's face. Gently, he reached out and brushed it away, his fingers lightly grazing Rowan's skin. The touch caused Rowan to stir slightly, a soft groan escaping his lips as he shifted in his sleep.
As Ethan sat beside Rowan, he couldn't help but feel a wave of emotions wash over him. The night's events had been intense, and seeing Rowan so vulnerable had stirred something deep within him. Rowan's head rested heavily on Ethan's shoulder, his breathing steady and calm as he slept.
Ethan's gaze softened as he noticed a small strand of hair had fallen across Rowan's face. Gently, he reached out and brushed it away, his fingers lightly grazing Rowan's skin. The touch was tender, almost reverent, and it made Ethan's heart ache in a way he hadn't expected.
Rowan stirred slightly at the touch, a soft groan escaping his lips as he shifted in his sleep. The sound was almost a whisper, filled with a depth of emotion that resonated with Ethan. He watched as Rowan's face relaxed, the tension from the night slowly melting away.
Ethan took a deep breath, his mind racing with thoughts and feelings he couldn't quite put into words. Rowan had always been quiet and reserved, but tonight had shown Ethan a side of him he had never seen before. The raw vulnerability, the pain, and the strength it took to confront those emotions had left a lasting impression on Ethan.
As he continued to sit there, his arm still around Rowan's shoulders, Ethan couldn't help but feel a deep sense of protectiveness. He wanted to be there for Rowan, to help him through the difficult times and share in the moments of joy. There was a connection between them that went beyond friendship, something unspoken but undeniably powerful.
Ethan's thoughts were interrupted by another soft sound from Rowan, a slight moan as he shifted again, seeking comfort. Ethan's fingers lingered on Rowan's hair for a moment longer before he let his hand rest gently on Rowan's shoulder.
The room was quiet, the only sounds being their steady breathing and the distant hum of the city outside. Ethan felt a warmth spreading through him, a quiet realization that he cared for Rowan in a way that went beyond words. The bond they shared was growing stronger, and Ethan knew that he would do whatever it took to support his friend.
As Rowan continued to sleep, Ethan watched over him with a soft smile.10Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQRN4EhF7vc
