Chapter Twenty-Six: Shadows of Deceit

The campsite was bathed in the gentle glow of dawn, a serene scene that belied the brewing storm. Aria, disguised as the mysterious girl, watched with calculated intensity as the group discussed their plans for the day. Her eyes lingered on Lily, Alex, and Mia, her intentions veiled behind a facade of innocence.

"I think it would be great if Lily, Alex, and Mia head to the forest to gather more wood for our shelters," Aria suggested, her voice soft and convincing. "Ethan and I can hold down the fort here."

Lily's smile was warm as she nodded in agreement. "Sounds like a plan. We'll be back soon."

As Lily, Alex, and Mia ventured into the forest, Aria's true intentions began to unravel. Mia's intuition whispered of danger, and she made a decision—she would circle back and keep an eye on Ethan and the seemingly innocent girl.

Hidden amongst the trees, Mia's suspicions grew stronger as she witnessed Aria's movements. Suddenly, as if from nowhere, Aria crept up behind Ethan, a piece of hard wood in her hand, her intentions clear.

Mia's heart raced, adrenaline surging through her veins. With a burst of speed, she emerged from her hiding spot and intercepted Aria's blow, the impact sending a shock of pain through her body. She fell to the ground, her vision swimming as she fought to stay conscious.

Ethan's voice was a mix of shock and anger as he shouted Mia's name, his instincts kicking in. With a primal roar, he lunged at Aria, his fists striking with a fierce determination.

As the battle unfolded, Mia's head cleared, her resolve unwavering. She watched as Ethan fought, his strength and courage evident in every move. But Aria was no longer able to maintain her disguise—the veil of innocence fell away to reveal her true, malevolent form.

The clash of wills was intense, a battle between a vengeful spirit and a determined survivor. Ethan's voice was fierce as he faced his adversary. "You won't tear us apart!"

Aria's laughter was chilling, her form flickering as she fought against Ethan's onslaught. "I will have my revenge, one way or another!"

With a final surge of energy, Ethan's strike landed true, causing Aria to stagger. The forest seemed to tremble as the ground shook, and then, in a burst of light and darkness, Aria's form dissipated into nothingness.

The battle was won, but the aftermath left the clearing heavy with tension and exhaustion. As the dust settled, Ethan crawled towards Mia, his voice choked with concern. "Mia, are you okay?"

Mia managed a weak smile, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm fine… just a bit battered."

Ethan's relief was palpable as he sat by her side, his touch gentle. "You saved me, Mia."

Mia's gaze met his, her eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and something more—a truth she had kept hidden for so long. "Ethan, there's something I need to tell you."

As the sun set over the forest, their conversation was a mix of vulnerability and honesty. Mia's confession spilled forth, her feelings for Ethan laid bare.

Ethan's eyes widened with surprise, his voice a mixture of astonishment and realization. "Mia, I had no idea..."

Mia's voice was steady, her gaze unwavering. "I just needed you to know."

authors POV: I really like the Mia\Ethan duo than lily and Alex duo.