Unresolved Tensions

The silence between Ethan and me was palpable as we walked side by side, Jace trailing behind us. We had just left the house, and I was still reeling from the encounter with Jace earlier. Ethan seemed to sense my unease and reached out, placing a gentle hand on my back. As we strolled through the quiet neighborhood streets, I couldn't help but think about Jace. What was going on with him? Why did he keep pushing me away, only to pull me back in? I glanced over my shoulder, catching Jace's eye as he watched us from a distance. Ethan noticed my gaze and followed it to Jace. "You okay, Lil?" he asked, his voice low and concerned. I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. "Yeah, I'm fine," I said finally, trying to brush it off. But Ethan's eyes lingered on Jace, and I could sense his unease. He knew Jace's reputation, and I could tell he was wondering what had just gone down. As we turned a corner, Ethan slowed down, waiting for Jace to catch up. "Hey, man," Ethan said, as Jace approached us. "You okay? You seemed a little off back there." Jace shrugged, his expression neutral. "I'm fine," he said, his eyes flicking to mine before quickly looking away. I felt a pang of frustration. Why couldn't he just be honest with me for once? But before I could say anything, Ethan spoke up. "Let's grab some food," he said, breaking the tension. "I'm starving." Jace nodded, and we continued walking, the three of us in a awkward silence. I couldn't help but wonder what the rest of the night had in store. As we walked, the streets became increasingly familiar. We were heading towards the diner, a place I had been to many times before. But tonight, it felt different. Tonight, it felt like there was more at stake. The diner's neon sign came into view, and Ethan quickened his pace. "I'm buying," he said, a grin spreading across his face. But as we stepped inside, I couldn't shake off the feeling that this night was going to be anything but ordinary. Jace's eyes met mine, and for a moment, I thought I saw something there, something that looked almost like...a challenge. My heart skipped a beat as I turned away, unsure of what to make of it. But one thing was certain - I was in for a wild ride.