THE FIGHTER (Origninally called my UFC FIGHTER)

19. Noah

Summer vacation came and went in the blink of an eye, and before I knew it, school was back in session. Everyone, including my closest friends, had headed off to college to pursue their own dreams, except for Levi and myself. Being seniors in high school, we were left to face the halls alone, but we found solace in each other's company.

As for Ethan, he had also embarked on a college journey, but had chosen a local one near his home. He recently shared with me that he had actually received a scholarship to attend college in Arizona, but he turned it down. He wanted to stay close to his parents and his adorable baby sister. It was a decision that represented the loyalty and love Ethan had for his family.

One sunny day in August, as the warmth of the sun bathed my yard, Ethan and I decided to relax and enjoy the last few days of summer vacation before school consumed our lives once again. We laid out on the green grass, looking up at the vast expanse of the clear sky. The bright blue canvas seemed to hold endless possibilities for our futures.

"What are you going to study?" I asked, curious about Ethan's aspirations.

He turned his head towards me, his mesmerizing eyes meeting mine. "Something that has to do with sports," he replied. "Perhaps even opening my own mixed martial arts gym one day."

I couldn't help but smile at this revelation. Despite Ethan's retirement from being a professional UFC champion, his passion for the sport never wavered. It was inspiring to witness someone so devoted to their craft.

"I'm sure that with hard work and dedication, you'll achieve all your goals," I assured him, my voice filled with genuine belief.

Ethan grinned, his dimples making an appearance. "You know I'll always be there to support you too, right?"

His words warmed my heart, and I felt a sense of reassurance wash over me. Being there for each other was an unspoken promise we had made early on in our relationship.

"I know," I replied softly, feeling a blush creep onto my cheeks. Ethan's kisses still had the power to fluster me, even after months of dating, and I cherished that feeling.

Leaning over, Ethan pressed his lips against mine in a tender kiss. It was a simple gesture that spoke volumes about our connection and the love we shared. As our lips parted, he voiced a sentiment that resonated deeply within me.

"I'm going to miss spending this much time with you," he confessed, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

"Don't worry," I reassured him, placing a hand on his arm. "We'll still be able to hang out, even if it's only a few times a day due to school."

An idea flickered in Ethan's eyes as the glass door to my yard opened, and the voices of our friends reached our ears. They were approaching, their laughter and chatter filling the air around us.

"We should throw a little party to bid our friends farewell before they head off to their respective colleges at the end of summer," Ethan suggested, turning his attention towards our approaching friends.

I nodded, agreeing with his proposal. We both stood up and met the group, including Jay, who always seemed to be a part of our adventures.

"What are you two up to?" Liam asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Just hanging out. Is it not allowed for me to spend time with my boyfriend?" Ethan retorted, wrapping an arm around my shoulder and pulling me close.

The group's collective gasp echoed through the air. "Boyfriend?!" they exclaimed in unison.

Surprised glances were exchanged, and Sam spoke up, seemingly confused. "Since when?"

Andrew, always quick with information, answered, "It was big news after Ethan's win against Hans a few weeks ago."