**Chapter 7: Shadows of Doubt**

October's encounter with Ethan had left her with more questions than answers. His evasive response about his online presence had only fueled her curiosity, and she couldn't shake off the feeling that he was hiding something from her. As she walked back to her dorm, the autumn leaves crunching beneath her feet, she decided to pay a visit to Aria. She found Aria in the library, surrounded by stacks of books and notes. October slid into the chair across from her, a look of determination on her face. "I need to ask you something," she said, her voice low. Aria looked up from her book, a hint of concern in her eyes. "What is it?" October hesitated, unsure of how to phrase her question. "Do you know anything about Ethan's past?" she asked, her eyes locked on Aria's. Aria's expression changed, and for a moment, October saw a flash of fear in her eyes. Then, it was replaced by a calm, measured tone. "I told you, October, I don't know much about him. Just that he's...different." October leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "Different how?" Aria glanced around the library, ensuring they were alone. "I've heard rumors, October. Whispers about his family, about his past. Some people say he's involved in things he shouldn't be." October's heart skipped a beat. "What kind of things?" Aria's eyes locked on hers, a seriousness in their depths. "Things that could put you in danger, October. Things that could hurt you." October felt a shiver run down her spine. She had always considered herself to be a good judge of character, but now she was beginning to wonder if she had misread Ethan entirely. Was he hiding something from her? And if so, what? Just then, October's phone buzzed in her pocket. She hesitated for a moment before pulling it out, hoping it wasn't Ethan again. But to her surprise, it was another text from the unknown number: "Meet me at the old oak tree at midnight. Come alone." October's eyes locked on Aria's, a sense of unease washing over her. "I think I have to go," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Aria's expression turned serious. "Be careful, October. Whatever is going on, I don't think it's safe." October nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. As she walked back to her dorm, the shadows of doubt cast over her, she couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead. And whether she was ready for it.