The Whispers of Cupid

Chapter 10: Exploring New Grounds

The art exhibit downtown showcased a collection of vibrant, contemporary pieces. As they walked through the gallery's expansive halls, Sara couldn’t help but admire Ethan's enthusiasm for the artwork surrounding them.

“This one’s my favorite,” Ethan said, stopping in front of a large photograph of a cityscape. The image depicted a busy urban street captured at sunset, with light and shadows blending in a way that made the entire scene glow with warmth.

“The way the light plays off the buildings is incredible,” Sara agreed, stepping closer to examine the details. “You really have a good eye for photography.”

Ethan smiled, clearly pleased. “It’s all about how the smallest details make the biggest difference. I love how photography captures a moment—something that may never be repeated.”

Sara looked at him for a moment, hearing the intensity in his voice. She had always seen him as the guy who joked around, laughed easily, and bantered with her over small things like coffee. But here, in the quiet of the gallery, she saw a different side of him—a side that was passionate, thoughtful, and deeply connected to his art.

“You really care about this,” she said softly, her eyes searching his.

Ethan nodded, his expression serious. “Photography... it's a way of seeing the world. Capturing something most people miss. You see a reflection in a window, a shadow against a wall—those fleeting moments that speak to something deeper. I think that’s why I love it so much.”

As they continued to explore the gallery, their conversation became more animated. They discussed art, life, and the little things that brought them joy. But even as they spoke, Sara couldn’t stop thinking about how differently she saw Ethan now. There was more depth to him than she had realized, and she found herself drawn to this side of him.

After they had seen all the exhibits, Ethan suggested grabbing dinner at a nearby bistro. The restaurant had a cozy, intimate atmosphere that made their time together feel even more special. As they sat across from each other, their conversation took on a more personal tone.

“So, Sara,” Ethan said, leaning back in his chair, “what’s something you’re passionate about outside of books and art?”

Sara thought for a moment, a thoughtful smile crossing her face. “I’ve always been interested in exploring new things. I love visiting new places, even if it’s just a hidden café or a park I haven’t been to before. There’s something exciting about experiencing something unfamiliar.”

Ethan nodded. “I can definitely relate to that. I work as a professional photographer, so every new place is like a new shot, a new story waiting to be captured.”

Sara’s eyes widened in surprise. “Wait, you’re a photographer? That’s amazing! No wonder you’re so serious about all this art.”

Ethan’s smile faded slightly, his gaze drifting for a moment. “Yeah... I guess you could say it’s a big part of who I am.”

Sara felt a shift in the atmosphere, sensing that there was more behind his words than he was letting on. She leaned forward, curiosity getting the best of her. “But why become a barista when you're such a talented photographer?”

Ethan hesitated, his eyes flickering with something she couldn’t quite place. “Just... you know, past stuff.”

The lightness of their earlier conversation evaporated. Sara immediately felt the weight of the question she had asked. She watched Ethan, sensing that she had touched on something sensitive, something he wasn’t ready to talk about.

“Ethan, I didn’t mean to—”

He waved it off, offering her a small smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “It’s fine, Sara. It’s just... a long story.”

Sara nodded, but the weight of his words lingered in her mind. There was clearly more to Ethan’s past, and she found herself wanting to know what had led him to Bellwood, to this simpler life. But she didn’t press him, respecting the boundaries he had drawn.

After a brief silence, Ethan glanced at her and asked, his tone lighter, “So, if I wanted to get into reading more, where would you suggest I start?”

Sara’s eyes lit up at the change in topic. “Oh, I could recommend so many books! What are you interested in? Fiction, non-fiction, classics, something more modern?”

Ethan shrugged, smiling again, though it was still subdued. “Surprise me.”

Sara grinned, clearly excited by the question. Though they weren’t in the library, she spoke passionately, describing some of her favorite books and why she thought Ethan might enjoy them. “If you like stories that make you think, I’d recommend The Night Circus—it’s imaginative, with a touch of magic. Or if you’re more into history, Sapiens is a brilliant overview of human evolution.”

Ethan listened intently, impressed by her enthusiasm. “You’ve got me convinced. I’ll have to stop by the library soon to check them out.”

“You should! I’ll make sure you get a good mix of genres. We can build your reading list,” she said with a playful smile.

Ethan chuckled. “I’m holding you to that.”

As they continued walking through the gallery, their conversation flowed effortlessly. Ethan admired how Sara's love for books mirrored his own passion for photography, each of them seeing the world through their unique lens.

By the time they reached the end of the exhibit, Ethan had a mental list of books to explore, and Sara felt a sense of satisfaction in sharing her love for stories.

“You’ve officially turned me into a future bookworm,” Ethan said with a grin as they walked toward the exit.

Sara laughed. “We’ll see if you really follow through! Just let me know what you think once you dive into those books.”

“I will,” Ethan promised, giving her a playful nudge as they stepped outside into the cool evening air.

But even as they parted ways, the earlier moment lingered in Sara’s mind. Ethan had become a mystery—one she couldn’t help but want to solve. And for the first time, she saw him not just as the playful, lighthearted man she had come to know, but as someone with deeper layers, carrying a past he wasn’t ready to share.