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Chapter 1 - New Beginnings
The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across Ethan's room. He groaned softly, reluctantly pulling himself from the depths of sleep. As he blinked away the remnants of a dream, the familiar sounds of a bustling morning reached his ears—birds chirping outside, the distant hum of a lawnmower, and the faint clatter of dishes from the kitchen.
Ethan stretched, feeling the satisfying pull of muscles waking up after a night's rest. He glanced at the clock on his bedside table. 7:00 AM. Another day of school, another day of navigating the maze of high school life. But today felt different, charged with an undercurrent of excitement and nervous anticipation.
With a deep breath, Ethan swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up. He padded over to the window, pulling the curtains open to reveal a bright, sunlit day. The town of Willow Creek lay before him, familiar and comforting, yet brimming with potential.
Determined to seize the day, Ethan quickly got dressed, choosing his favorite band t-shirt and a pair of worn jeans. He grabbed his guitar from the corner of the room, strumming a few chords to center himself. The music flowed through him, a reassuring presence that steadied his nerves.
Downstairs, the scent of freshly brewed coffee greeted him as he entered the kitchen. His mom stood by the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease. She glanced up and smiled warmly.
"Morning, Ethan. Ready for another day?" she asked, her voice filled with the usual morning cheer.
"Morning, Mom," Ethan replied, grabbing a mug and pouring himself some coffee. "Yeah, I think today might be interesting."
His mom raised an eyebrow, sensing the anticipation in his voice. "Interesting, huh? Got something planned?"
Ethan shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Just some band stuff. We might be working on a new song."
"Well, I hope it goes well. You know we're proud of you, no matter what," she said, patting his shoulder.
"Thanks, Mom. That means a lot," Ethan said, smiling.
He quickly finished his breakfast, the pancakes warm and comforting. With a quick hug for his mom, he headed out the door, guitar slung over his shoulder. Today was another chance to work on his music and connect with his friends, Alex and Jamie.
Ethan slipped on his headphones and scrolled through his playlist until he found the song he was currently obsessed with. The familiar melody filled his ears, and he hummed along, the rhythm and lyrics mingling with the morning air.
He couldn't help but think about the song he was trying to write. The chorus kept looping in his mind, but no matter how hard he tried, he just couldn't get it to sound right. The words felt off, the melody slightly out of sync with what he envisioned. Frustration bubbled beneath the surface, but he pushed it aside, focusing on the music that flowed through his headphones.
As he continued down the street, Ethan noticed his neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, tending to her garden. She looked up and waved, a warm smile on her face.
"Good morning, Ethan! How's the music coming along?" she called out.
Ethan pulled off his headphones, returning the smile. "Morning, Mrs. Thompson! It's coming along, slowly but surely."
"That's great to hear! I can’t wait to see you all perform again. You always put on such a good show," she said, her eyes sparkling with genuine excitement.
"Thanks! We're working hard on some new songs. Hopefully, they'll be ready soon," Ethan replied.
Mrs. Thompson gave him an encouraging nod. "I’m sure they will be. Keep at it, Ethan!"
Ethan waved goodbye and continued on his way. He passed by the local coffee shop, where a group of students from his school were gathered, chatting and sipping their morning drinks. One of them, Sarah, spotted Ethan and waved him over.
"Hey, Ethan! What's up?" she asked, her voice cheerful.
"Hey, Sarah! Just heading to school. How about you?" Ethan replied.
"Same here. Heard anything about the next talent show? Are you guys gonna perform?" she inquired, her eyes wide with curiosity.
"Yeah, we're definitely planning to. Just need to get our new songs polished up," Ethan said, trying to sound confident despite the nagging doubt about his unfinished song.
"Awesome! I can't wait to hear you guys. Good luck!" Sarah said with a grin.
"Thanks, Sarah. See you at school," Ethan said, waving as he continued walking.
Ethan slipped his headphones back on and resumed his walk. The familiar tunes playing in his ears provided a comforting backdrop, but his mind was elsewhere. He began to hum the melody of the song he was working on, letting the notes flow naturally. The lyrics had come to him easily enough, but it was the melody that seemed to elude him.
"Why can't I get this right?" he muttered to himself, frustration evident in his voice.
He tried humming the chorus again, changing a few notes here and there, but it still didn't feel right. The melody just wasn't capturing the emotion he wanted to convey. He sighed, pulling out his phone to jot down some notes.
"Maybe if I change the key... or simplify the rhythm," he thought aloud, tapping away at his screen.
Lost in his thoughts, Ethan barely noticed the people passing by, all of whom were absorbed in their own morning routines. The lyrics of his unfinished song echoed in his mind, a constant reminder of the challenge that lay ahead.
He turned a corner and found himself at the school's entrance. The large, familiar building loomed before him, filled with both the promise of new opportunities and the anxiety of the unknown. As he walked through the gates, he took a deep breath, hoping that today would bring the inspiration he needed to complete his song.
"Just got to keep at it," he reminded himself, a determined look crossing his face. "It'll come to me eventually."
Ethan arrived at school just as the first bell rang, signaling the start of the day. He quickened his pace, weaving through the throngs of students bustling through the hallways. He made it to his classroom just in time, slipping in through the door as the final bell sounded.
"Cutting it close, as usual," he muttered to himself with a small grin.
He scanned the room and spotted his friends, Jack and Mia, already seated near the back. Making his way over, he plopped down in the empty seat beside them. Jack, with his usual confident demeanor, looked up and greeted him with a nod.
"Morning, Ethan. Almost thought you'd be late this time," Jack teased, his brown eyes twinkling.
"Yeah, yeah. You know me," Ethan replied, chuckling. "Just another hectic morning."
Mia, with her focused and energetic attitude, leaned in. "Got any new song ideas? You looked deep in thought when you walked in."
Ethan sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I've been working on this new song, but I just can't get the melody right. It's driving me crazy."
Jack leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Don't stress too much. Sometimes you just need to take a break and come back to it with fresh ears."
Mia nodded in agreement. "Yeah, a change of pace can help. Maybe after soccer practice, you can give it another shot."
"Thanks, guys. I'll definitely try that," Ethan said, feeling a bit more at ease with their support.
Later, the lunch bell rang, signaling a much-needed break for the students. Ethan, exhausted from a morning of classes, had his head down on his desk, dozing lightly. The hum of chatter and the clatter of trays filled the cafeteria, but it was all background noise to him.
Suddenly, he felt a nudge on his shoulder. Groggily, he lifted his head to see Jack and Mia standing beside him, grinning.
"Hey, sleepyhead," Jack teased. "Ready for some soccer? We're heading to the field."
Mia nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, come on! It'll be fun. You need to stretch your legs."
Ethan rubbed his eyes and shook his head. "Sorry, guys. I'm too tired. Didn't get much sleep last night."
Jack groaned. "Man, you need to get out more. Soccer will wake you right up."
Ethan gave them a tired smile, grabbing his guitar case. "I appreciate it, but I'm gonna head to my usual spot. Need to work on this song."
Mia sighed, shaking her head. "Alright, music man. We'll catch you later."
"Yeah, don't get too lost in your music," Jack added with a wink.
Ethan chuckled. "I'll try not to. See you both in class."
As his friends headed towards the soccer field, Ethan made his way to the gym. He knew of a hidden storage room inside the gym that connected to the main building via a rarely used staircase. It was his secret napping spot, a quiet haven where he could escape the noise and rest.
He entered the gym, weaving through the maze of equipment and lockers, until he reached the storage room door. Pushing it open, he quietly stepped inside and made his way to the staircase. To his surprise, he noticed someone already there, curled up on the steps and fast asleep.
Ethan hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do. The figure was partially obscured by a hoodie, but he could see the rise and fall of their chest as they breathed deeply. Curiosity got the better of him, and he took a step closer.
Just then, the figure stirred and slowly lifted their head, revealing a pair of deep blue eyes filled with a mix of sleepiness and confusion. They stared at each other in silence for a moment, the air thick with unspoken questions. Ethan tried to brush off the awkwardness.
"Uh, sorry about that," Ethan muttered, looking away and quickly walking up the stairs.
The stranger watched him for a moment, then nodded slightly and shifted to make some space. Ethan laid his guitar case down next to the stranger and then settled down on the steps, trying to find a comfortable position.
Ethan laid back on the steps, trying to find a comfortable position. The quiet of the storage room and the steady sound of the stranger's breathing began to lull him into a state of relaxation. Just as he was starting to drift off, he heard a soft voice break the silence.
"Do you play music?"
Ethan opened his eyes slightly, feeling a twinge of annoyance at being interrupted. He glanced at the stranger, who was now sitting up and looking at him with curious eyes.
"Yeah," Ethan muttered, hoping to keep the conversation short. "I play guitar."
The stranger nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer. Ethan closed his eyes again, determined to get some rest. The soft hum of the school's ventilation system and the distant sounds of lunchtime activity outside the storage room began to blend into a soothing background noise.
But just as he was drifting back into a light sleep, the voice broke the silence again. "What kind of music do you play?"
Ethan sighed, sitting up slightly and rubbing his eyes. "Mostly rock and indie. I write my own songs too," he replied, trying to keep his responses brief.
"That's cool. Do you have a band?" the stranger asked, their curiosity unabated.
"Yeah, we do," Ethan said, hoping that would be the end of it.
There was a pause, and Ethan allowed himself to relax again, leaning back against the stairs. But then the stranger spoke up once more.
"Could you teach me to play guitar?"
Ethan opened his eyes fully this time, feeling a mix of surprise and frustration. He looked at the stranger, who was now sitting up and watching him with earnest eyes.
"Teach you?" Ethan echoed, trying to process the unexpected request.
The stranger nodded. "Yeah, I've always wanted to learn. But, you know, never really got the chance."
Ethan sighed, sitting up slightly and rubbing his eyes. "Sorry, not right now. I'm really tired."
There was a pause, and Ethan allowed himself to relax again, leaning back against the stairs. But then the stranger spoke up once more.
"Can you teach me to play guitar?"
Ethan opened his eyes fully this time, feeling a mix of surprise and frustration. "I said no, I'm too tired."
The stranger remained persistent. "Can you teach me to play guitar?"
Ethan couldn't help but let out a small chuckle despite his frustration. "Look, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but not today."
The stranger finally seemed to get the message and stopped asking. There was a brief moment of silence before they spoke again.
"I'm Rowan, by the way."
Ethan glanced over, taking in the stranger's features more closely. "I'm Ethan," he responded hesitantly, still trying to process the unexpected encounter.
Rowan's eyes lit up. "Nice to meet you, Ethan! So you'll teach me guitar?"
Ethan's eyes widened. "No, I didn't mean that. I just... My name is Ethan."
"But you said your name, so that means you'll teach me, right?" Rowan persisted.
Ethan groaned, feeling the frustration building. He sat up and grabbed his guitar case, standing up from the steps.
"Look, I'm really not a music teacher. There are clubs and YouTube videos for learning guitar. I'm just too tired for this," Ethan said, trying to keep his voice calm.
With that, he headed up the stairs, leaving the storage room behind. As he walked away, he could feel Rowan's gaze following him, but he didn't look back. He just needed some peace and quiet to clear his mind.
Once Ethan was out of sight, Rowan sat there for a moment, processing the conversation. He wondered if he had been too pushy, but then a smile slowly spread across his face. His eyes beamed with a newfound sense of hope.
"He said his name... That means he might teach me!" Rowan thought, feeling a surge of excitement.
Ethan made his way back to the main building, the encounter with Rowan still lingering in his mind. He trudged through the hallways, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling in. Finally, he reached his classroom and pushed the door open, greeted by the familiar buzz of his classmates.
Jack and Mia were already seated, chatting animatedly about their soccer practice. They looked up as Ethan entered, noting the tired expression on his face.
"Rough day?" Jack asked, raising an eyebrow.
"You could say that," Ethan mumbled, making his way to his desk and plopping down heavily.
Mia gave him a sympathetic look. "You look like you could use a nap."
Ethan nodded, resting his head on the desk. "That's the plan," he muttered, closing his eyes.
Ethan settled into a deep sleep almost immediately, the weight of exhaustion finally lifting off his shoulders. His head rested on his folded arms, and he began to breathe steadily, lost to the world of dreams.
Jack and Mia exchanged a glance, their expressions a mix of concern and amusement.
Jack shook his head with a grin. "Looks like Ethan's pulling another all-nighter with his music. He needs to learn how to balance things better."
Mia chuckled softly. "Yeah, he's gonna burn out at this rate. But you have to admire his dedication."
They both sat down next to Ethan, careful not to disturb his slumber. As the teacher began the lesson, Jack and Mia focused on their notes and quietly discussed their upcoming soccer match.
"So, you think Coach will let me play forward in the next game?" Jack whispered, glancing over at Mia.
"Definitely," Mia replied confidently. "You've been on fire during practice. Just keep that energy up, and you'll do great."
Jack nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "Thanks, Mia. I just hope we can win this one. We've been working so hard."
"We will," Mia said with a reassuring smile. "We've got a strong team, and with you playing forward, we've got a great chance."
Throughout the class, Jack and Mia diligently took notes and participated in the discussion, keeping an eye on Ethan as he slept soundly. They knew how important his music was to him, and while they teased him for his lack of sleep, they also supported him in every way they could.
When the bell finally rang, signaling the end of the class, Jack gently nudged Ethan awake.
"Hey, sleepyhead, time to get up," he said with a grin.
Ethan groggily lifted his head, blinking as he adjusted to the bright classroom lights. "Class over already?" he mumbled.
"Yeah, you slept through the whole thing," Mia said, handing him her notes. "Here, you can borrow these to catch up."
"Thanks, Mia. I owe you one," Ethan said, grateful
As they packed up their things and headed to their next class, Mia turned to Ethan with a playful glint in her eye.
"Since you owe me one for letting you sleep through class," Mia began, "how about coming to soccer practice today? Just for once."
Ethan hesitated, feeling the tug between supporting his friends and his commitment to the band. "Uh, I'd love to, Mia, but I have band practice today," he said, trying to sound sincere.
Jack raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "You always have band practice. Come on, just this once."
Ethan gave them a sheepish smile. "I really do. We've got a lot to work on, and I can't miss it."
Before Mia or Jack could say anything more, Ethan slipped out of the classroom, his guitar case in hand. "I'll catch you guys later!" he called over his shoulder as he disappeared into the crowded hallway.
Jack sighed, shaking his head with a resigned smile. "Typical Ethan."
Mia nodded, though she couldn't help but feel a little disappointed. "Yeah, but I guess we can't blame him. He's really dedicated to his music."
"True," Jack agreed. "Maybe one day we'll get him to join us on the field."
Ethan made his way to the school gates, weaving through the throngs of students eager to head home. As he stepped outside the gates, he put on his headphones and scrolled through his playlist, finding a song that matched his mood.
Lost in the music, he walked off the school grounds, the familiar tunes providing a comforting backdrop to his thoughts. But as he took a few steps down the street, something made him stop. He turned around and noticed Rowan standing near the school gates, looking determined.
Ethan hesitated for a moment, debating whether to continue on his way or to see if Rowan needed any help. The memory of their earlier encounter flashed through his mind, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity.
With a sigh, Ethan pulled off his headphones and walked back towards the school gates. As he approached, Rowan looked up and their eyes met.
"Hey, Rowan," Ethan called out. "Why are you still here?"
Rowan's small smile turned into a confused frown. "Because you're teaching me music?."
Ethan sighed inwardly. "Rowan, I told you, I'm not a music teacher. There are clubs and YouTube videos you can learn from."
"But you said I could come with you," Rowan persisted.
"I never said that," Ethan replied, trying to sound firm. "I'm not here to give lessons."
Rowan continued to follow closely, undeterred. "So, when will you teach me?"
Ethan groaned and started walking away, hoping Rowan would take the hint and leave. But Rowan kept pace, not giving up.
"When will you teach me guitar?" Rowan asked again, his voice filled with determination.
Ethan quickened his pace, trying to ignore him. "I can't teach you. Just go find someone else."
Rowan didn't relent. "Teach me guitar!"
Ethan rolled his eyes, feeling frustration building. He decided to just walk faster, hoping Rowan would get the message. But Rowan was persistent, matching his speed.
"Teach me guitar!" Rowan repeated, his voice unwavering.
Ethan finally gave up trying to argue. He put his headphones back on, hoping to drown out Rowan's pleas, and continued walking towards his band's practice spot. Despite his best efforts to ignore him, Rowan kept following, still asking the same question.
"Teach me guitar!"
Ethan quickened his pace, his frustration mounting. He hoped that by ignoring Rowan, the persistent student would eventually give up. But Rowan was undeterred, matching his speed and continuing to ask the same question over and over again.
"Teach me guitar!"
Ethan clenched his jaw, doing his best to keep his cool as he approached the studio. As he reached the entrance, he pulled off his headphones and took a deep breath. He pushed open the door and stepped inside, greeted by the familiar hum of activity.
"Hey, Kameryn," Ethan called out, nodding to the receptionist seated at the front desk.
Kameryn looked up from their work and smiled. "Hey, Ethan. How's it going?"
"Just another day," Ethan replied with a forced smile. He glanced over his shoulder to see Rowan still trailing behind him. "Is the band room free?"
"Yep, all yours," Kameryn said, handing him the key. "Good luck with practice."
"Thanks," Ethan said, taking the key and heading down the hall. He could hear Rowan's footsteps following closely behind him.
Ethan entered the elevator and pressed the button for the basement level, where the band's practice room was located. As the doors closed, he hoped for a moment of peace, but Rowan stepped inside just before they shut completely.
"Teach me guitar," Rowan repeated, his voice filled with determination.
Ethan did his best to ignore Rowan's persistent questions, staring straight ahead as the elevator ascended. The atmosphere in the elevator was tense, with Rowan repeating his request in unwavering determination.
As soon as the elevator dinged and the doors opened to the second floor, Ethan made a dash for it. He rushed down the hallway, his footsteps echoing against the walls. He could hear Rowan's footsteps following closely behind, but he didn't look back.
Ethan reached the door to the practice room and quickly fumbled with the key, unlocking it and throwing the door open. He slipped inside and attempted to slam the door shut behind him, hoping to finally get a moment of peace.
But Rowan was quicker than he expected. Just as the door was about to close, Rowan caught it with his hand, preventing it from shutting completely.
"Teach me guitar," Rowan said, his voice steady and determined.
Ethan sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation. He knew this wasn't going to be easy, but for now, he just needed to focus on getting through band practice.
"Oh my god!, you can sit and watch. But I'm not teaching!," Ethan said, his tone firm.
Rowan nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "Thanks, Ethan."
Ethan walked further into the practice room, trying to shake off the frustration of the situation. As he entered, he spotted a muscular guy with short, tousled blond hair standing over a bass guitar case. He wore a graphic tee, ripped jeans, and high-top sneakers, accessorized with various bracelets and necklaces that jingled softly as he moved.
The guy looked up as Ethan entered, followed closely by Rowan. "What's with the kid?" he asked, raising an eyebrow in amusement.
Ethan sighed, dropping his guitar case on the floor. "I basically caught a stray," he replied, his tone a mix of exasperation and resignation.
The guy laughed heartily, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he picked up his bass guitar from the case. "Well, looks like you got yourself a little fan club," he teased, strumming a few notes to test the sound.
Rowan, undeterred by the banter, took a seat in the corner of the room, still watching Ethan intently.
"Alex, where's Jamie?" Ethan asked, glancing around the room.
Alex shrugged, still grinning. "He said he's going to be a bit late. Something came up."
Ethan nodded, feeling a bit more relaxed now that he was among friends. "Alright, I guess we'll wait for him, then."
Ethan sighed and sat down on the floor, pulling his guitar out of its case. He began tuning it, the familiar motions helping him relax a bit. As he turned the tuning pegs, he could feel Rowan's eyes on him, watching every move with intense curiosity.
Trying to ignore the scrutiny, Ethan plucked each string, adjusting the tension until the notes were just right. But Rowan's persistent gaze made it hard to concentrate. It felt as if every small adjustment he made was being analyzed and evaluated.
Alex, noticing the tension, chuckled and leaned against the wall with his bass guitar in hand. "Looks like you've got an audience, Ethan."
Ethan shot Alex a glance, a mix of amusement and irritation in his expression. "Yeah, tell me about it."
Rowan, oblivious to the unease he was causing, continued to watch intently, as if trying to absorb every detail of Ethan's technique. Ethan did his best to focus on the task at hand, hoping that once they started playing, Rowan's attention might shift.
As Ethan finished tuning his guitar, the door to the practice room suddenly burst open. A slim and slightly toned guy with black, straight hair cut in a neat, classic style hurried in, wearing a hoodie, jeans, and sneakers. He looked around the room, slightly out of breath.
"Sorry I'm late, guys," he said, catching his breath. "I had a bit of a disagreement with my roommate."
Alex looked up from his bass guitar and grinned. "No worries, Jamie. It's fine. We were just about to get started."
Jamie hesitated for a moment, glancing at Rowan sitting in the corner of the room. "Uh, who's the kid?"
Ethan sighed, giving a small shake of his head. "Long story. Just someone who's a bit too enthusiastic about learning guitar."
Rowan, still watching intently, didn't seem fazed by the introduction. He remained focused on Ethan, waiting for any opportunity to learn.
"Alright, let's get to it," Ethan said, standing up and plugging in his guitar. He strummed a few chords, signaling the start of practice.
Ethan plugged in his guitar, strumming a few chords to test the sound. Alex slung his bass guitar over his shoulder, adjusting the strap to his comfort, while Jamie settled behind the drum kit, twirling a drumstick between his fingers.
The three of them exchanged a quick nod, silently signaling their readiness. Ethan started with a powerful riff on the lead guitar, his fingers moving effortlessly across the strings. Alex joined in with a deep, rhythmic bass line, grounding the melody. Jamie, with his natural flair, added a dynamic beat on the drums, driving the tempo forward.
The room filled with the rich, harmonious blend of their instruments, each member contributing their unique sound to the collective symphony. Ethan closed his eyes, losing himself in the music, allowing the stress and frustration of the day to melt away. This was his sanctuary, where he could truly express himself.
Rowan watched from the corner, his eyes wide with admiration. Despite Ethan's earlier refusals, he couldn't help but be captivated by the energy and passion of the performance.
As the band played on, the practice room seemed to come alive with the sound of their music. The powerful lead guitar riffs, the steady bass lines, and the driving drum beats all came together to create something truly special.
The band continued to play, the music flowing seamlessly between Ethan's lead guitar, Alex's bass, and Jamie's drums. The energy in the room was palpable, each member lost in the rhythm and melody.
Suddenly, Ethan stopped playing, a frustrated groan escaping his lips. "I messed up," he muttered, his fingers stilling on the strings.
Alex and Jamie exchanged a quick glance, both looking puzzled. "What are you talking about? We didn't hear any mistake," Alex said, his voice filled with genuine confusion.
Ethan glanced at them, his expression tense. He knew he had missed a note, and it gnawed at him. But seeing their puzzled faces, he couldn't help but feel a bit foolish for letting it get to him.
Jamie gave a small shrug, looking over at Alex. "Maybe we just didn't catch it."
Alex nodded in agreement. "Yeah, man, you sounded fine to us."
Ethan sighed, still feeling the weight of his self-imposed expectations. He knew he needed to loosen up, but it was easier said than done.
"Tell you what," Alex said, slinging his bass over his shoulder. "Let's take a smoke break L. Clear our heads a bit."
Jamie nodded, setting down his drumsticks. "Good idea. We could all use a breather."
Ethan watched as they headed towards the door, hoping a short break would help him reset his mind. Rowan, still sitting in the corner, looked on with curiosity, silently observing the dynamics of the band.
As Alex and Liam headed out for their smoke break, Ethan sighed and wandered over to where Rowan was sitting. He dropped down next to him, leaning back against the wall and letting out a frustrated groan.
"I can't believe I messed up," he muttered, more to himself than to anyone in particular.
Rowan looked at him curiously, his eyes still filled with determination. "I didn't hear anything wrong. You sounded great to me."
Ethan glanced at Rowan, a small, tired smile forming on his lips. "Thanks, but I know I missed a note. It's just frustrating."
Rowan nodded, his gaze unwavering. "You're really passionate about your music. That's something I admire."
Ethan sighed again, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I guess I am. It's just... I have high standards for myself, you know?"
"I can see that," Rowan replied softly. "But even the best musicians make mistakes sometimes."
Ethan looked at Rowan, a bit surprised by the insight. He knew he had been hard on himself, and maybe he needed to ease up a little. For now, though, he just wanted to clear his mind and get back to the music he loved.
"Thanks, Rowan," Ethan said, feeling a bit of the tension leave his shoulders. "I appreciate it."
Rowan smiled, looking genuinely pleased. "So, are you going to teach me guitar now!?."
Ethan's frustration boiled over. "No!" he yelled, his voice echoing through the practice room. But then he hesitated, letting out a groan as he ran a hand through his hair. "Okay, fine. If I say yes, will you stop bothering me?"
Rowan's eyes lit up, and he nodded eagerly. "Yes! I promise."
Ethan sighed, feeling a mix of relief and resignation. "Alright, let's get this over with," he muttered. He stood up and walked over to a corner of the room where they kept spare instruments. He grabbed one of the spare guitars and handed it to Rowan.
"Here you go," Ethan said, his tone firm but not unkind. "Let's start with the basics."
Ethan handed the spare guitar to Rowan and took a deep breath. "Alright, first thing's first: tuning the guitar. Go ahead and tune it."
Rowan looked up at Ethan, confusion written all over his face. "Um... "
Ethan groaned, rubbing his forehead in exasperation. "Do you have any idea how to tune a guitar?" he mumbled.
Rowan shook his head.
Ethan sighed again and walked behind Rowan, positioning himself so he could guide Rowan's hands. "Alright, I'll help you. Just follow my lead."
He slid his own hands down Rowan's to position them correctly on the tuning pegs. "First, we'll start with the low E string," Ethan said, his voice patient despite his frustration. He carefully showed Rowan how to turn the peg, explaining how to listen for the correct pitch.
Ethan and Rowan continued working together, slowly but surely tuning the guitar string by string. Ethan's initial frustration eased as he saw Rowan's determination and willingness to learn. Finally, they managed to get the guitar perfectly in tune.
"Alright, good job," Ethan said, nodding in approval. He handed Rowan a cord, pointing to the end with a plug. "Now, take this and plug it into the guitar."
Rowan stared at the cord, clearly unsure of what to do next. "Uh, where does it go?"
Ethan sighed, but this time with a hint of patience. He pointed to the input jack on the side of the guitar. "Right here. Just plug it in."
Rowan carefully followed Ethan's instructions, plugging the cord into the guitar's input jack. Ethan watched, making sure everything was connected properly.
"There you go," Ethan said, satisfied. "Now you're ready to play. Let's start with some basic chords."
Ethan sighed, standing behind Rowan once more to guide his hands. He gently brushed against Rowan as he positioned his hands correctly on the guitar.
"Alright, let's start with a basic chord," Ethan said, his tone patient. He carefully placed Rowan's fingers on the fretboard, showing him how to form the chord. "This is a G major chord. Make sure your fingers press down firmly on the strings."
Rowan looked down at the fretboard, concentrating hard as he tried to mimic Ethan's movements. Ethan adjusted Rowan's grip slightly, making sure his fingers were in the right positions.
"Now, strum the strings gently," Ethan instructed, stepping back slightly to give Rowan space.
Rowan did as he was told, strumming the strings and producing a clear, resonant sound. A smile spread across his face as he heard the chord ring out.
"That's it," Ethan said with a nod of approval. "Just keep practicing that, and you'll get the hang of it."
Rowan looked up at Ethan, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thanks, Ethan."
Ethan gave a small smile, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Oh.. Uh yeah whatever, No problem.”
Ethan and Rowan continued practicing, with Ethan guiding Rowan's hands as they worked on forming basic chords and strumming techniques. Rowan's determination and focus were evident, and Ethan found himself growing more patient with each passing moment.
As they practiced, Ethan adjusted Rowan's grip and finger placement, occasionally brushing against him in the process. Rowan's progress was slow but steady, and the sound of the guitar began to improve with each attempt.
Just as they were making some real progress, the door to the practice room swung open. Alex and Liam walked back in, a cloud of smoke trailing behind them.
"Hey, we're back," Alex announced, looking between Ethan and Rowan with a smirk. "How's the guitar lesson going?"
Liam raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by the sight of Ethan teaching Rowan. "Looks like you two are getting along."
Ethan glanced up at them, feeling a sense of relief. "Yeah, it's going alright. Rowan's a fast learner." Rowan beamed with pride, clearly pleased with the compliment.
Alex and Liam exchanged a knowing look before setting up their instruments again. "Alright, let's get back to it," Alex said, picking up his bass guitar.
Ethan nodded, giving Rowan a quick pat on the back. "Keep practicing those chords. You'll get there."
Ethan and his bandmates resumed their practice, each member lost in the music as they played their hearts out. Rowan watched from his corner, his eyes wide with admiration as he took in every note, chord, and beat.
As the hours passed, the band's energy remained high, their music filling the practice room with a powerful, harmonious sound. Rowan's determination to learn never wavered, but the day's events and the soothing rhythm of the music eventually took their toll.
Rowan's eyelids grew heavy, and he struggled to stay awake. Despite his best efforts, he slowly drifted off to sleep, his head resting against the wall. The band members noticed but continued playing, not wanting to disturb him.
Three hours later, with their practice session coming to an end, Ethan strummed the final chord, signaling the conclusion of their session. The room fell silent, save for the steady breathing of the sleeping Rowan.
"That was a good practice," Alex said, setting his bass guitar down. "We made some real progress."
Liam nodded in agreement, stretching his arms after the long session. "Yeah, it felt great. We're getting tighter as a band."
Ethan glanced over at Rowan, a small smile forming on his lips. "Looks like someone had a productive day too."
Alex chuckled, following Ethan's gaze. "He really wanted to learn. Gotta admire the kid's determination."
The group quietly packed up their instruments, careful not to wake Rowan. As they gathered their things and prepared to leave, they couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment. Despite the challenges, they had managed to come together and create something special.
"Alright, let's call it a day," Ethan said, slinging his guitar case over his shoulder. "We'll pick up where we left off tomorrow."
As they packed up their instruments and prepared to leave, Alex and Liam hesitated for a moment, exchanging glances before turning to Ethan.
"Are you sure you're alright with us leaving you alone with Rowan?" Alex asked, his tone slightly concerned.
Ethan gave them a reassuring smile. "Yeah, it's fine. I'll handle it."
Liam still looked a bit uncertain but eventually nodded. "Alright then, we'll see you tomorrow."
"Take care, man," Alex added, giving Ethan a pat on the shoulder before heading out.
Once they were gone, the practice room grew quiet. Ethan walked over to where Rowan was sleeping, gently nudging his shoulder in an attempt to wake him up.
"Hey, Rowan, time to wake up," Ethan said softly.
Rowan stirred, his eyes slowly fluttering open as he blinked away the sleep. He looked around, slightly disoriented, before focusing on Ethan.
"Practice is over, and it's time to head home," Ethan explained.
Rowan sat up, rubbing his eyes and yawning. He didn't say anything, just nodded in acknowledgment.
Ethan helped Rowan to his feet. "You did good today. Just make sure you get home safe."
Rowan nodded again, offering a small, grateful smile but remaining silent.
Ethan and Rowan left the practice room, the air outside feeling refreshing after the long session. As they walked down the hallway and exited the building, Ethan glanced at Rowan, who remained silent and focused.
Much to Ethan's surprise, as they continued walking, he realized they were heading in the same direction. He raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in his expression.
"Looks like we're going the same way," Ethan remarked, more to himself than to Rowan.
Rowan simply nodded, his usual quiet demeanor unchanged. Ethan couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and curiosity at the coincidence.
As they walked together towards the bus station, the silence between them was comfortable, filled with the unspoken understanding that had formed during their impromptu guitar lesson. Ethan glanced over at Rowan a few times, noting the determination and focus in his eyes.
Finally, they reached the bus station, and Ethan turned to face Rowan. "Well, I guess this is where we part ways," he said with a small smile.
Rowan nodded again, a faint smile appearing on his lips. "Thanks for today, Ethan," he said softly.
Ethan gave a nod in return. "No problem. Take care, Rowan."
Ethan boarded the bus, finding a seat near the back where he could have a bit of solitude. He leaned his head against the window, watching the city lights blur into a mosaic of colors as the bus moved through the streets. The hum of the engine and the gentle rocking of the bus provided a soothing rhythm, allowing him to reflect on the day's events.
As he sat there, his thoughts turned to Rowan. He couldn't help but recall the look of pure passion and excitement on Rowan's face as he learned to play the guitar. That determination, that unyielding desire to learn, it was something Ethan couldn't easily forget. Rowan's eyes had been filled with a light, a spark that seemed almost infectious.
Ethan sighed, feeling a pang of envy. He wondered when he had last felt that kind of excitement for music. It had been a long time since he'd played with that same fire and enthusiasm. Somewhere along the way, the joy he once found in music had faded, replaced by routine and expectations.
He thought about his early days, when every chord and every song had been a new adventure. Back then, music had been an escape, a way to express himself and connect with others. But now, it felt more like an obligation, something he did out of habit rather than passion.
The bus eventually reached his stop, and Ethan gathered his things, stepping off into the cool night air. He walked the familiar path to his home, the streetlights casting long shadows on the pavement. As he reached his front door, he felt a sense of emptiness.
Ethan unlocked the door and stepped inside, greeted by the warm, familiar ambiance of his home. As he closed the door behind him and set his guitar case down, he heard footsteps approaching from the living room.
His younger sister, Emma, appeared in the hallway, her arms crossed and a mock stern expression on her face. "Well, well, well, look who decided to finally show up," she teased, raising an eyebrow.
Ethan rolled his eyes, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, yeah, I know I'm late. Band practice ran longer than usual."
Emma smirked, clearly enjoying the chance to playfully scold him. "You could at least text to let me know. I was starting to think you got kidnapped by a group of rabid fans."
Ethan chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, please. Like you'd even notice if I was gone. You'd be too busy binge-watching your latest TV obsession."
Emma gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. "How dare you! I'll have you know I'm very invested in my brother's well-being."
Ethan laughed, feeling the tension of the day melt away in the familiar sibling banter. "Sure, sure. Next time, I'll make sure to send you a text, your highness."
Emma grinned, satisfied with her victory. "That's all I ask. Now, go get some rest. You look like you could use it."
Ethan nodded, feeling a sense of relief as he headed towards his room. "Goodnight, Emma."
"Goodnight, Ethan," she called after him, her tone softer now.
Ethan stepped into his room, feeling the weight of the day's events. He placed his guitar case down gently and pulled out his notebook, filled with scribbled lyrics and musical notes. He grabbed his guitar and connected it to a pair of headphones, hoping to work on the melody for his song without disturbing anyone.
Sitting on the edge of his bed, Ethan flipped through the pages of his notebook, searching for inspiration. He strummed a few chords, trying to find the right notes that would bring his song to life. But no matter how hard he tried, the melody just wouldn't come together. The frustration of the day lingered in his mind, making it difficult to focus.
He sighed, resting his forehead against the guitar for a moment. The passion and excitement he had seen in Rowan earlier kept replaying in his mind. It made him question if he still had that same fire for music or if it had been extinguished by routine and expectations.
Ethan strummed a few more chords, but the melody continued to elude him. He felt a pang of disappointment, wondering if he had lost touch with the creative spark that once fueled his music. Eventually, he set the guitar aside, knowing it was time to call it a night.
He placed his notebook on the bedside table and lay down, pulling the blanket over himself. As he closed his eyes, Ethan couldn't help but hope that sleep would bring him some much-needed clarity and inspiration.
The next day, lunchtime arrived, and the cafeteria was buzzing with students. Ethan, however, was fast asleep in one of the empty classrooms, exhausted from the previous night's efforts to work on his song.
Mia gently shook Ethan's shoulder. "Ethan, wake up! It's lunchtime!"
When that didn't work, Jack tried calling his name a bit louder. "Come on, Ethan! We need you on the field!"
Despite their best efforts, Ethan remained deeply asleep, barely stirring. Mia and Jack exchanged glances, realizing that their usual tactics weren't working.
Just then, Rowan, who had stopped by to see Ethan during lunch, poked his head into the classroom. Seeing Ethan still asleep, he walked over quietly and stood by the desk. He mumbled Ethan's name softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Ethan..."
To everyone's surprise, Ethan jolted awake, blinking groggily as he looked around. His eyes settled on Rowan, and he couldn't help but chuckle. "Guess it takes a persistent student to wake me up."
Mia and Jack watched in amusement, clearly impressed by Rowan's unexpected success. "Hey, Ethan, we're heading to the field to play soccer. Want to join us?" Mia asked with a hopeful smile.
Ethan stretched and sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He considered their offer for a moment but ultimately shook his head. "Thanks, guys, but I'm not really in the mood for soccer today."
Mia and Jack exchanged a glance, a bit disappointed but understanding. "Alright, suit yourself," Jack said with a shrug.
Ethan stood up, gathering his things and nodding to Rowan. "Come on, let's get some lunch."
Ethan and Rowan grabbed their lunches from the cafeteria and made their way to a quiet stairwell, away from the noise and commotion of the lunch crowd. It had become their unofficial spot for guitar practice—a place where they could focus and work without distractions.
As they settled in, Ethan pulled out his guitar, and Rowan retrieved the one he had been practicing with. They started with some basic chords, but it quickly became evident that Rowan had made significant progress since their last session. His fingers moved more confidently across the fretboard, and the chords he strummed were clear and resonant.
Ethan couldn't help but smile. "You're getting the hang of it, Rowan. Nice work."
Rowan, usually soft-spoken and reserved, allowed himself a small smile in response. "Thanks, Ethan. It feels good to improve."
They continued practicing, and Ethan found himself getting into the groove of the music. For the first time in a while, he felt genuinely engaged and excited about playing. As they worked through a few more exercises, Rowan suddenly paused, a look of frustration on his face.
"What's wrong?" Ethan asked, noticing the change in Rowan's demeanor.
Rowan sighed, looking down at the guitar. "I've had these lyrics stuck in my head for a while now. They're just... there, and I can't get them out."
Ethan's curiosity was piqued. "Can I hear them?"
Rowan hesitated for a moment before nodding. He took a deep breath and started singing softly, the lyrics flowing naturally from his lips. Ethan listened, his eyes widening in surprise at Rowan's clear, melodic voice.
The words were simple yet poignant, and the melody fit perfectly with the chords that Ethan was writing and had been practicing. Ethan was taken aback by Rowan's talent, realizing that there was more to his quiet student than he had initially thought.
Without thinking, Ethan reached out and boldly grabbed Rowan's arms, clutching them with excitement. "Rowan," he said, his voice filled with a mix of astonishment and determination, " join my band!"13Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjQ9ujkQPi
