Hoops and Heartstrings

chapter 3: next door neighbors

Ava's pov

We all were in the library, when Ethan entered, after doing Ms. Rachel's work. He walked towards us and then stood beside me and asked "Can you walk now, Ava?" Ethan asked me after entering. "Yeah, chill, it's just a small wound. I'll be fine."

Okay let's go guys, shopia said. Where? What about the practice shopia? Oh actually it's canceled i just received the text saying about it. "Students, practice is canceled. There's an emergency meeting, and we need all of you to head home." Okay...

How are you planning on going home Ava? Cameron questioned. By bus, oh no, shopia said In her dramatic manner. "Ethan, can you drop Ava off? She's hurt, and I don't want her to worsen it."
Ethan agreed without hesitation. Shopia grinned, "Okay, done!" And winked at ava.

As Shopia and Cameron departed, Shopia texted Ava, "Girl, don't waste this opportunity! Enjoy your day with Ethan!". I sent her a eyes rolling emoji.

"I'm so sorry for the trouble, Ethan," Ava said, feeling grateful.
"No problem at all," Ethan replied with a smile, insisting on taking her things. Ava was impressed by his chivalry, thinking to herself. "A true gentleman."

We headed to the parking area, where Ethan made a quick call. When we reached his car, he opened the door for me and I got in. He joined me in the back seat and instructed his driver to drop me off as well. As I gave him my address. "Wait, I live in that area too!" he exclaimed calmly.

I was so surprised, hearing that. He grinned at my surprise look. Seems like you didn't knew about it? Did you? Nope, I repiled. "Oh well, we actually moved a week ago itslef" oh that makes sense. Oh wait, "You're Mrs. Karen's son, aren't you?" I asked, making the connection his eyes lit up.

"How do you know my mom?" he asked, curiously."I brought some cupcakes as a welcoming gesture, but no one was home except your mom. She welcomed me warmly, and we hit it off instantly Even your dog Ash, and I became friends" I explained. Oh so that delicious cupcakes were made by you?

"Oh, you liked my cooking?" I asked. "Nah, it was horrible!" He said making face. "I won't talk to you!" I said, pouting pretending to be offended. Ethan chuckled, trying to stifle his laughter. "Come on, I was just joking!" he said, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

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AFTER REACHING HOME

As soon as I got home I flopped onto my bed, exhausted. The house was empty, Dad was at work, Mom was away on a business trip in another city and my little sister my .'cutie pie'was at her friend's house, I remembered I needed to pick her up soon. "Let me just get ready first" I thought to myself, feeling a bit lethargic.

After freshening up, I headed to the kitchen to grab a bite to eat. As I sat down to enjoy my food, I began scrolling through my phone. That's when I saw Lily's text, which made my eyes widen in surprise. I quickly called her, and she answered on the first ring.

"Hey, Ava What's up?" she asked, her voice cheerful as always."Lily, you're coming to St. Stephan's?" I asked, my excitement building. "Yep, girl! My school has a transfer student program and I'm being transferred to your your collage, Can you believe it?" she exclaimed.

"I'm so excited! I can't wait to show you around". I said thrilled to have my friend moving to my hometown and my same collage.
We chatted for a bit longer and I learned that she would be arriving during the welcoming program for new students. I promised to meet up with her after my performance, and then we said our goodbyes.

Next, I headed out to pick up my little sister, Lana. I walked to the bus stop and took the bus and after a 15-minute ride, I arrived at her friend's house. I thanked them for taking care of Lana, who had already fallen asleep. I carried her on my back and walked home feeling grateful for the peaceful evening.