` ❀ 𝓘 'll quiet down if it's what you want . ݁ ꒱

– The afternoon shadows stretched across Camp Half-Blood as you walked toward the arena. Your heart was pounding, as it always did when you knew Ethan Nakamura would be around. He was mysterious, withdrawn, and had an anger that consumed him at times, but there was something about him that always drew you in. Maybe it was the fact that even with his emotional armor, you saw something beyond his cold facade—a pain he hid, something that made you want to understand him more deeply.

When you reached the arena, you found Ethan training alone, his sword slicing through the air with precision. He was so focused that he seemed oblivious to the world around him. You hesitated for a moment, watching from afar, as you did so often. But today, you decided that you would try to approach him, even though you knew he might not be the most receptive.

– “Hi, Ethan." – you called, trying to sound casual as you approached.

He paused for a moment, letting his sword lower, and looked at you, his dark eyes holding an expression you knew well—a mix of irritation and indifference.

– “What do you want?” – he replied curtly, his voice cold, not even trying to hide his disdain.

His coldness was like a knife, but you had expected it. Still, it hurt. You forced yourself to smile, trying not to let it get to you. – “I just thought… maybe you wanted company. I can train with you, if you want.” –

Ethan huffed and took a step back, raising his sword again. – “I don’t need help. And I definitely don’t need company.” –

The rejection was almost unbearable. You stood still for a few seconds, trying to control the lump forming in your throat. It wasn’t the first time Ethan had treated you like this, but for some reason, you couldn’t let go. There was something more to him, you were sure, something he hid from everyone.