Autumn "Nothing is to be discussed," Ethan's words cut through the air with a finality that left me feeling deflated. The hope I had harbored of resolving the awkwardness that lingered between us after yesterday's incident began to wane. "We've already talked about everything. We're planning to visit a pack-" "Can't I please go with you?" I blurted out, interrupting him mid-sentence. His gaze met mine, and I felt a wave of embarrassment wash over me, my cheeks flushing with color. In my desperation to bridge the gap between us, I had allowed my words to spill out without considering the consequences. I realized then that I had been so consumed with work lately that I hadn't even had a chance to talk to Mary about the situation. As Ethan approached, a smile playing at th

