Bound by Whispers

six

Ethan's POV

The Bell Tower—the highest point in the city—had been calling to me ever since I heard about it. There was an inexplicable allure in being up there, surrounded by the night sky and the twinkling lights of the city below. It didn't matter if I was in a foreign country or here; I had a habit of seeking out open rooftops or towers to spend my nights, finding a strange comfort in the solitude and the vastness of the world around me.

So, when I learned about the Bell Tower in this city, I couldn't resist the urge to go there. The anticipation filled me as I made my way to the top, eager to experience the view it had to offer.

The night was calm and inviting as I made my way to the Bell Tower. The city lights shimmered below, casting a warm glow that contrasted with the darkness above. I had always been drawn to high places, finding solace and freedom in the open sky.

As I reached the top of the Bell Tower, I couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement. The sight before me was awe-inspiring, and for a moment, I forgot about everything else. I gazed at the stars, each one seeming to hold a secret, a story waiting to be told.

But then, amidst the tranquillity of the night, a flicker of movement caught my eye. I turned my head and saw her, August, laying there like a celestial being amidst the night. It was unexpected, to say the least, and I felt a mix of surprise and curiosity wash over me.

There was something different about her tonight, something that seemed to transcend the confident persona she usually exuded. In this moment, she looked vulnerable, as if the weight of the world was resting on her shoulders.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I should approach her. Our last encounter had left me wondering about her, and I couldn't deny the fascination she held over me. But I was also cautious, aware of the reputation she had built, the one who commanded power and influence.

Despite my reservations, something within me urged me to go to her. Perhaps it was the memory of that rainy day, the connection we had shared even for a brief moment. Or maybe it was just my curiosity to understand the girl behind the facade.

As I approached her, I couldn't help but notice the vulnerability in her eyes, a glimpse of the person she might be when the world wasn't watching. It was a side of her I hadn't expected to see.

"August" I finally let out, my voice soft and genuine. I could sense the hesitation in her response, a crack in the armor she had carefully crafted. It was as if she wanted to open up but was afraid to do so.

"Ethan, what are you doing here?" For a moment, the silence between us spoke volumes, the stars above seemingly witnessing our encounter. I knew that this moment was significant, that it could shape the course of our lives in ways we couldn't yet comprehend.

And so, I decided to take a chance. "I don't come here often, actually it's my first time" I admitted, offering her a glimpse of my own vulnerability. "But – There's something about being on top of the world, looking at the stars, that makes me feel alive."

I saw a flicker of understanding in her eyes, as if she could relate to the sentiment. It was a small step, a gesture to let her know that she wasn't alone in her feelings.

I watched as she stood up, her posture changing from lying down to sitting with her knees to her chest. It was then that I noticed a tear glistening in the corner of her eye, and I felt an unexpected pang of concern for her. Without thinking, I took a step closer, wanting to reach out and offer some comfort, but I hesitated, unsure of how she would react.

Then, she looked at me, just a fleeting glance, and patted the floor beside her. It was an invitation, a silent request for me to join her. I found myself sitting down next to her without saying a word, the concern in my heart overpowering any reluctance.