Whispers of heart

Chapter 7: Unspoken Bonds and Dancing Shadows.

Chapter 7: Unspoken Bonds and Dancing Shadows.

The next day started peacefully at the university. Mia and her friends gathered in the classroom, sharing laughter and stories. Alex, in a teasing tone, reminisced about how Mia used to beat everyone when she was small, making Lily burst into laughter. Amidst the cheerful atmosphere, Professor Thompson entered the room, his presence commanding attention.

"Alright, everyone," Professor Thompson announced, his deep voice resonating through the room. "I have an announcement to make."

Curiosity filled the air as students turned their attention to the professor. He revealed the news of an upcoming dance competition, where pairs of students would participate. Excitement rippled through the room.

Lily, always enthusiastic, nudged Mia. "Come on, let's go for it! It'll be so much fun!"

Alex, chiming in, agreed, "Yeah, I think it will be a blast!"

Mia, lost in her thoughts, contemplated whether to participate. Lily, sensing her hesitation, made a spontaneous decision. She hurried to the professor's seat, declaring, "I'm writing Mia's name down!"

Ignoring Mia's protest, Lily gave her a sly wink before returning to her seat. Mia, not one to back down from a challenge, decided to give it a shot and joined the competition, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

At that time, Mia noticed Ethan, seated at the last corner bench, lost in sleep. Determined to talk to him after their previous encounter in the infirmary, she gently tapped his shoulder, waking him up.

"What do you want?" Ethan asked, his eyes still heavy with sleep.

Mia's voice soft yet determined. "Ethan, can I talk to you for a moment? Can you meet me at the campus garden during the break?"

Ethan, his eyes still heavy with sleep, blinked a few times before nodding in agreement. "Yeah, sure," he mumbled, his curiosity piqued despite his usual indifference.

With that agreement, Mia returned to her seat, a sense of anticipation filling her. She knew this conversation could potentially bridge the gap between them, and she hoped that in the quiet beauty of the campus garden, they could understand each other a little better.

In the serene ambiance of the campus garden, Mia waited, her eyes fixed on the vibrant flowers and the gentle sway of the trees. A soft breeze rustled the leaves as she petted the friendly squirrel that had become her unexpected companion. Her mind was occupied with thoughts of the upcoming dance competition and her conversation with Ethan.

Ethan approached, his demeanor as cold as ever. "What do you want to talk?" he asked, his eyes revealing a glimmer of curiosity.

Mia took a deep breath, gathering her courage. "I wanted to talk to you about what happened in the infirmary. I'm sorry about last time. I shouldn't have said so much when I didn't know anything about you. I didn't mean to offend you."

Ethan remained silent, his gaze steady on Mia. His expression softened, and after a moment, he spoke, his voice surprisingly gentle, "It's okay. You didn't knew anything about me. I shouldn't have reacted that way."

Relief washed over Mia, and she smiled gratefully. "Thank you for understanding. I appreciate it."

A comfortable silence settled between them before Mia broached the topic of the dance competition. "Have you considered participating in the dance competition? It might be a fun way to get to know your classmates better."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, clearly uninterested. "Dancing isn't my thing. I don't see the point."

Mia persisted, her enthusiasm evident. "It's not just about the dance. It's an opportunity to bond with others, to step out of your comfort zone. Plus, it's a chance to show a different side of yourself."

Ethan remained unconvinced, his arms crossed. "I don't need to dance to bond with people. I prefer my own company."

Undeterred, Mia continued, "I understand, but sometimes, trying new things can lead to unexpected friendships. You might enjoy it if you give it a chance."

Ethan sighed, his icy exterior cracking slightly. "I'll think about it, but I can't promise anything."

Encouraged by his response, Mia beamed at him. "That's all I ask. Thank you for considering it."

Just then, the friendly squirrel Mia had been playing with earlier scampered over, its tiny paws brushing against her hand. Mia chuckled, distracted momentarily. "Look, even he thinks you should participate. He's rooting for you!"

Ethan glanced at the squirrel, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "I highly doubt that."

Mia, undeterred, held out her hand, offering the squirrel some more nuts. "Well, he's the unofficial mascot of our conversation now. What do you say, little guy?"

The squirrel hesitated for a moment before accepting the nuts and scurrying away. Mia turned her attention back to Ethan, her eyes sparkling with determination. "See? Even he knows you should give it a shot."

Ethan shrugged, and changed the subject. "How do you know Alex?"

Mia, still playing with the squirrel, explained, "Oh, he's my childhood friend."

Ethan, assuming, asked, "I thought he was your boyfriend, given how close you two are."

Mia shook her head, laughing. "No, he's just a friend. Don't believe everything you see."

Ethan scratched the back of his head, admitting, "Okay, I won't. I'm heading to class.
And tell your little friend he's a persuasive squirrel."

Mia laughed, her heart lighter after their conversation. "I'll be sure to pass on the compliment. See you later, Ethan."

With that, they parted ways, Mia feeling hopeful about Ethan's potential participation in the dance competition and the budding understanding between them...