Page 92 of Unfolding Ethan

I was sure my eyes were popping out of my sockets and my breathing was labored, not because I was attracted to her, but because I was surprised.And shocked. "Ariana, look, I respect that you are bi and I’m totally fine with it, but . . . I don't like you likethat. You see, I am more into dicks."

Was I doing it right?

Her face saddened and she looked down at her curvy frame. "You don't think I’m pretty?"

I shook my head vigorously. "Nonono, you'reverypretty. Beautiful. Gorgeous. But I don't—”

Ariana pressed closer and I didn't know what to do when her boobs pressed against mine. I mentally screamed at Ethan to help me. "Then prove it.Kissme."

I held her shoulders, to pull away from her but instead, she held my arms. "No, Ariana. I’m not going to kiss you just because of—”

She breathed, "I like you very much, Kiara."

And before I could stop her, she pressed her lips against mine.Oh, shit.

I was frozen in shock and my limbs didn't work when she moved her lips against mine. I finally gathered my thoughts when I heard the door open and pulled away from Ariana. I wiped my lips with the back of my palm, tasting that cherry lipstick of hers.

"What the hell.”

I turned around to see Ethan, who was looking very confused as he stared between the two of us; his ex-girlfriend and his best friend.

Twenty Three

I am a Loveable Fool

Ethan

Ishook my head and slowly blinked just to know if what I was seeing wasn't a dream or a nightmare. I couldn't decide. Ariana finally looked at me and gasped, covering her mouth, and staggered back in shock. I wondered if it would be a good time to wave at her.

I looked beside her at Kiara. Her dark brown eyes were wide with disbelief and shock, a few strands escaping her ponytail now framing her face, which was flushed red.

"What are you doing here?" Ariana squeaked in fear.

I wanted to give her a smug smile and say 'I heardeverything' walking away dramatically. But I was sure Kiara wouldn't appreciate it, so I held it back.

I couldn't believe that Ariana wanted to be with me so that she could get closer to Kiara. I didn’t know whether to laugh at the thought or feel bad about it.

Somehow, the image of them kissing flashed in my mind and being a straight guy, I found that extremely hot. Shaking my head, I controlled my hormones and walked out of the washroom, ignoring Kiara.

"Ethan, wait, it'snotwhat it looks like!"

I took a deep breath, walking aimlessly around the library. I knew Kiara was following me, her soft thuds of footsteps padding after mine along the wooden floor.

"Ethan. Stop!"

I didn't. I was angry. I was confused. I didn't know where I was going. I might just bump into some book rack and have an existential crisis.

The soft pressure on the crook of my elbow made me turn and look at the panting Kiara. I frowned, worrying about her when she held up her hand to take a deep breath.

"It's not what it looks like, E,” she said. “She came onto me.”

I nodded absentmindedly because I was getting irritated by the strand hiding her face. So, I stepped closer and tucked it behind her ear.There.Now, I can see her.

"Ethan."

I glanced down at her eyes. "Yes?"

Kia smiled, a soft crimson blush spreading on her cheeks. "Did you hear what I just said?"

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