Ethan's POV
I pulled up in front of William's house just as the sun was starting to dip lower in the sky. The weekend stretched out ahead of us, and I had been looking forward to this moment all day. William was spending the entire weekend at my place.
I got out of the car and walked up to the front door. Before I could knock, it opened. William stood there with his overnight bag already packed, wearing a simple hoodie and a bright smile that made my chest feel warm.
"Hey," he said, stepping outside. "You're right on time."
"Wouldn't miss it," I answered, taking his bag from him. "Ready?"
He nodded and turned to wave goodbye to his parents, who stood in the doorway. Mrs. Harlan smiled at me.
"Take good care of him, Ethan," she said kindly.
"I will," I promised.
William climbed into the passenger seat, and I started the car. As we pulled away from the house, I glanced over at him. He looked different today — lighter somehow. Happier.
