Step into love

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BEGI

e her new home, but it felt anything but that. Her heart pounded in her chest as she stared up at the gorgeous giant house. Painted bright navy blue, the shutters almost glowed in

ft, bubbling with excitement, and she stepped up

e it time. She wasn't sure time would make it easier. Her mom had remarried after years of being single and

vier than her moans behind

said a word yet, and already she felt like crowing in awkwardness. He must think she was some quiet, boring girl invading his space. Hey", he said finally, his voice low but casual. "Hey", she replied, clenching onto her bag a bit tighter, wished she had something to say, but really, what was there for her to say, hmmmm nice house, nice to meet you again? This just wasn't the time for all this-forced togetherness. Her mum didn't pick up on the unease and clapped her hands together; well, let's get your things inside-you've got the room at the end of the hall, right next to Ethan, she beamed, like she had just announced the best news in the world. Ava forced another smile, wincing on the inside-of course their rooms would be next to each other. How was she going to live like this, sharing the same hall, hearing him come and go, knowing he was only one door away? She could almost feel the awkwardness of accidental run-ins, moments

at her, his easy confidence as he carried this like it wasn't a big deal. Perhaps for him, it wasn't-he was accustomed to this house, this life; she was the outsider. A soft knock on the doorframe made her jump; her mum stood there leaning against the door with a kind smile. "I know this is hard, but give it a chance, okay?" she said softly. Mr. Thompson is a good man, and Ethan.......... well, he can be a little tough, rough around the edges, but he is a good kid; you will get along. Ava forced a nod, not tr