The gym was buzzing with energy, the dim glow of orange and purple lights casting shadows over the dance floor. The Halloween party was in full swing, music thrumming through the walls, but Ethan barely noticed any of it. His attention was locked on you.

You looked perfect—maybe it was the costume, or maybe it was just you. It had been your idea to match, and he had agreed without hesitation. Of course, he had. He would’ve done anything for you.

But now, standing beside you, watching you laugh at something someone else said, he felt that familiar ache in his chest. He wanted to tell you—wanted to say the words that had been sitting on his tongue for so long. But what if it changed everything?

“Ethan, come on! This is our song!” Your voice pulled him from his thoughts, bright and excited as you grabbed his hand.

His heart stuttered. You wanted to dance. With him.

He swallowed, nerves curling in his stomach. This was it. He had to do this.

“I—uh—actually…” He forced a breath, meeting your eyes, hoping you couldn’t see how fast his heart was racing. “I was going to ask you first.”

A grin spread across your face, and Ethan felt something loosen in his chest.

“Well, then,” you teased, tilting your head. “Ask me.”

A nervous chuckle slipped out as he held out his hand, fingers twitching slightly. “Would you dance with me?”