Wait No More

Part Twenty-Three

Ethan and Olivia eventually made their way back to the main trail, their hands still intertwined, and their hearts lighter than ever. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, orange glow over the forest. They quickened their pace, eager to catch up with Jessica and Jake and find a good spot to watch the fireworks.

As they rejoined their friends, the group settled down on a grassy hill that offered a perfect view of the horizon. They spread out a blanket and sat together, the excitement of the impending fireworks display palpable in the air.

Jessica glanced at Ethan and Olivia, who were still holding hands and sharing secret smiles. "You two seem... different," she said with a knowing look.

Olivia blushed, but Ethan just grinned. "Yeah, I guess you could say that."

Jake smirked. "About time you guys figured it out."

They all laughed, the camaraderie among them growing stronger. As the first firework burst into the sky, a collective gasp of awe escaped their lips. The night was filled with vibrant colors and the sound of crackling explosions, each one more spectacular than the last.

Ethan wrapped an arm around Olivia, pulling her close. She rested her head on his shoulder, feeling content and at peace. The fireworks were a beautiful backdrop to what felt like the perfect moment.

As the final firework lit up the sky in a dazzling display of color, the group gathered their things and began to make their way back to the bus stop. Ethan and Olivia lagged behind slightly, enjoying their last few moments of the night together.

When they reached the bus stop, Ethan pulled Olivia aside. "I have an idea," he said, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Olivia raised an eyebrow. "What are you up to?"

Ethan glanced over at the bus that was soon to take Olivia back to Job Corps. "I'm sneaking onto your bus. I can't let this night end just yet."

Olivia's eyes widened in surprise, but a smile quickly spread across her face. "Are you serious?"

"Absolutely," Ethan replied. "I want to spend as much time with you as I can."

With a quick nod, they hatched a plan. As the bus doors opened and passengers began to board, Ethan discreetly slipped in behind Olivia, keeping his head down. They found a pair of seats near the back and settled in, their hands clasped tightly together.

As the bus rumbled along the winding road back to Job Corps, Ethan and Olivia exchanged excited glances, reveling in the thrill of their little adventure. The night air was filled with the chatter of their friends, but Ethan and Olivia were in their own world, their hearts racing—not just from the fireworks but from the excitement of being together.

The bus driver turned on the radio, and a familiar tune filled the air. "Red Light Special" by TLC began to play, its sultry beat adding a playful energy to the atmosphere. Olivia giggled and leaned slightly closer to Ethan, her cheeks flushed.

"Is this your way of saying you want a special night?" she teased, her eyes sparkling.

Ethan chuckled, a playful grin spreading across his face. "Maybe it is. I mean, it is a red light special after all."

The song continued to play, the lyrics wrapping around them like a warm embrace. Olivia felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The mood on the bus shifted as her friends began to notice the song playing, and a few of them started to sing along, creating a lighthearted atmosphere.

Jessica shot a knowing look back at Ethan and Olivia. "You two have a special connection, don't you?" she called out teasingly, making the others laugh.