LOVE STARTS AT YOU

nt, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Ethan wasn’t particularly fond of crowds or being the center of attention, so he usually stayed in the

ad said earlier that day. “You never k

side Ryan, waiting for the show to start. The lights dimmed, and

choing through the auditorium. “We’ve got an incredible lineup o

ing, dancing, and musical skills. Ethan found himself genuinely enjoyin

like that,” Ryan whispered as a girl wi

“Yeah, she’s

this time with an unexpected announcement. “And next

Ryan, eyes wide with shock. “You d

nted it to be a surprise. Don’t worry, it

oward the stage. Ethan’s mind raced, a mix of panic and confusion swirl

and handed one to Ethan. “Just trus

that they both liked, one they had often sung along to when they were hanging out. Ry

e crowd erupted in cheers and applause, and Ethan felt his nerves start to melt away. Ryan’s energy w

y finished with a flourish, and the audience leapt to their feet, giving them a st

breathless from the performance. “I can’t believe we

than’s shoulders. “See? I told you it

im at Ryan’s words. “Thanks, Ryan. I

zing with excitement. Sam, Ethan’s best

aimed, clapping Ethan on the back. “I

lf-conscious but also proud. “T

aid, giving Ryan a nod of approva

elaxed and enjoying the performances even more, his earlier anxiety completely forgotten. By th

e stage to announce the winners. “And the award

Ryan, who was grinning from ear to ear. “Come on, Ethan, let’s go

and Ethan felt a swell of pride. This was a moment

nt still lingered in the air. Ryan and Ethan made their way outside

were great too!” Nina exclaimed, huggi

Ethan said, fe

“Told you it

atitude. “Yeah, it was. Thanks for

Anytime. I’m always up

t of the night still fresh in their minds. As they finally began to head h

said as they walked down the qui

rm and genuine. “Me too, Ethan

a deep connection to

Ryan had come into his life like a whirlwind, pushing him to step outside his comfort zone and experience

to face whatever came next. After all, with a fri