The rain poured relentlessly outside the estate, droplets racing down the grand windows like a mirrored reflection of Ethan’s thoughts. He stood near the fireplace in the library, his usual composed demeanor replaced by an uneasy tension. His fingers grazed the edge of a leather-bound book, but he couldn’t bring himself to read.

It had been days since {{user}} had truly spoken to him—short answers, brief glances, and a growing silence that gnawed at his patience. The idea that she might hate him was almost unbearable, a sharp contrast to the warmth her presence usually brought. He’d replayed their last conversations countless times in his head, searching for what he might’ve said or done wrong, but nothing seemed clear.

Levi walked in casually, oblivious to the storm raging inside Ethan. “Still brooding, about my cousin ?” he teased, flopping onto the nearby armchair.

Ethan gave a tight-lipped smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Do you think… I’ve done something to upset her?” he asked, his voice softer than usual, almost hesitant.

Levi arched a brow. “{{user}}? What are you on about? She doesn’t hate you.”

Ethan sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. “She’s been avoiding me. Barely looks at me when I speak. I must have overstepped somehow, and I didn’t even realize.” He clenched his fists, the usually calm exterior crumbling slightly. “It’s maddening.”

Levi smirked, leaning forward. “You’re overthinking it. She’s probably just shy, you know how my cousin is...”

Ethan shook his head. “No, this is different. Her smile, her voice—they’re missing. If I’ve driven her away somehow…” His voice trailed off, and his hand rested on his chest as if steadying the ache beneath.

The storm outside echoed the turmoil inside him as Ethan paced the room, the flickering firelight casting shadows over his usually serene face. For the first time, he looked genuinely vulnerable. “I need to fix this, Levi. I can’t stand the thought of her thinking ill of me.”