Meet me at the moon

Making a way out

Episode 2: Making a way out

Ethan stood there, stunned, as Mira disappeared into the crowd. How did she know about the marriage? And what did she mean by "You really need to go"? Was she playing him?

He shook off the confusion and decided to focus on his plan: break free from this arranged marriage. But how?

As he walked out of the school, he called his best friend, Alex, who's been living abroad.

"Hey, man! What's up?" Alex answered, his voice cheerful.

Ethan took a deep breath. "I need your help. I met this girl, Mira. She knows about the marriage thing with Jenny."

Alex's tone turned serious. "Whoa, slow down. What's going on?"

Ethan filled him in, and Alex listened quietly.

"Dude, you need to be careful," Alex said. "If Mira knows, others might too. What's your plan?"

Ethan sighed. "I want out. But my parents... and Jenny's family... it's all so messed up. I feel like I'm trapped."

Alex's response was simple. "You know I'll help you, man. But you gotta be ready for the fallout. Your parents are counting on this marriage to save their business. If you back out, it's gonna get messy."

Ethan nodded, even though Alex couldn't see him. "I'm ready. I can't keep living a lie. But I need a plan."

Alex thought for a moment. "Okay, here's what we'll do. I'll fly back to london and we'll figure this out together. In the meantime, play along with Jenny. Don't give her any reason to suspect you're backing out."

Ethan's mind was racing. "Okay, got it. But what about Mira? What if she's working with Jenny?"

Alex's voice was cautious. "That's a risk. Keep her close, but keep your guard up."

Ethan's phone beeped, indicating another call. It was Jenny.

"Hey, Alex, I gotta go. Jenny's calling."

Alex's voice was firm. "Alright, man. Be careful."

Ethan switched to the other call. "Hey, Jenny."

Jenny's voice was sweet. "Hey, Ethan! Just wanted to remind you about the party tonight. 8 PM, don't forget!"

Ethan forced a smile into his voice. "Can't wait."

Jenny laughed. "Great! See you then."

Ethan hung up, feeling like he was walking into a trap. What was he getting himself into?