The weeks seemed to fly by in a blur. Ein managed to stay out of trouble, navigating the hallways of Phoenix Drop High with a newfound sense of caution. Aaron was often by his side, their bond growing stronger with each passing day.

However, as they grew closer, Ein couldn't help but feel a rising tide of embarrassment. The rumors about their supposed relationship had only intensified, making it harder for him to navigate his feelings. Aaron was kind and supportive, but Ein struggled with the implications of their scenting ritual and the expectations that came with it.

One afternoon, after a particularly intense gym class, Aaron noticed Ein's unusual silence.

"Hey, you okay?" he asked, concern etched in his features.

Ein forced a smile. "Yeah, just tired, I guess."

But Aaron wasn't convinced. "You've been avoiding me lately. Did I do something wrong?"

Ein's heart sank. "No, it's not you. It's just... everything."

He ran a hand through his hair, feeling the weight of the situation press down on him. "I need some space, Aaron. I need to figure things out on my own."

Aaron nodded slowly, though his eyes showed a hint of hurt. "I get it. Just know I'm here if you need me."

Ein gave a small nod, grateful but conflicted. As he walked away, he couldn't help but glance back at Aaron, feeling the sting of their complicated relationship and the unspoken words between them.

Soon after the incident Aphmau and Garroth officially started dating, the news rippled through the school like wildfire. They were childhood friends, and their relationship blossomed naturally, drawing admiration and some envy from their peers. For Ein, seeing his sister happy with someone like Garroth was a relief. He had always known how much Aphmau cared for him, and seeing her with someone who cherished her meant everything to Ein.

One afternoon, as Aphmau and Garroth walked hand in hand down the school corridors, Ivy and her group of girls glared at them from a distance. Ivy's lips curled into a sneer as she whispered something to her friends, who giggled in response. They had always been jealous of Aphmau's popularity and now, seeing her with Garroth, it seemed their envy had reached new heights.

Meanwhile, Ein watched the scene unfold from a nearby bench. He couldn't help but smile at the sight of Aphmau and Garroth together, their happiness infectious. Despite the rumors and drama swirling around the school, Ein remained steadfast in his support for his sister and her newfound relationship.

Later that day, during lunch break, Ein joined Aphmau and Garroth at their usual table in the courtyard. Aphmau beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with joy. "Ein, can you believe it? Garroth and I are officially together!"

Ein chuckled warmly. "I knew it was only a matter of time. I'm really happy for you both."

Garroth nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Ein. Your support means a lot."

Aphmau leaned over and hugged Ein tightly. "You're the best brother ever, Ein."

Despite the lingering complexities in his own life, seeing Aphmau so happy made everything else fade into the background for Ein. He knew that no matter what challenges they faced, they would navigate them together as a family.

...

Aphmau leaned against Garroth, flipping through a fashion magazine as they lounged under a nearby tree.

"Can you believe homecoming is just around the corner?" she remarked, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

Garroth nodded, glancing over at Aphmau with a smile. "Yeah, it's crazy how fast this year is going by. Have you thought about what you're going to wear?"

Aphmau grinned, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, not yet. But I definitely want something that stands out, you know? What about you?"

Garroth chuckled softly. "I think I'll go with a classic suit. Simple but elegant."

As they chatted about their plans, Ein found himself lost in thoughts about Aaron. The recent events had brought them closer, albeit in unexpected ways. He wondered how Aaron felt about everything that had happened between them—rumors aside, there was a deeper connection Ein hadn't fully processed yet.

Aphmau noticed Ein's distant expression and nudged him gently. "Hey, Earth to Ein! What do you think?"

Ein blinked, snapping out of his reverie. "Oh, um, sorry. I think you should wear something red, Aphmau. It suits you."

Aphmau grinned at his response. "Thanks, Ein. I'll keep that in mind."

Garroth glanced between them, sensing Ein's distraction. "Hey, Ein, you okay?"

Ein nodded quickly. "Yeah, just thinking about... stuff."

Aphmau raised an eyebrow playfully. "Stuff, huh? Care to share?"

Ein hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "Just... figuring things out."

Aphmau exchanged a knowing look with Garroth before patting Ein's shoulder reassuringly. "Well, whenever you're ready to talk about it, we're here for you."

Ein managed a small smile, grateful for Aphmau and Garroth's understanding and support. As they talked about homecoming plans, excitement stirred within him. The idea of attending a school dance, something he had never imagined himself doing before, sparked a flicker of anticipation.

"You know," Ein said, his voice tinged with a hint of enthusiasm, "I've never been to a school dance. It sounds... kind of fun."

Aphmau grinned at him warmly. "It'll be great, Ein! We'll all go together and make it an awesome night."

Garroth nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. It's going to be a memorable experience."

Ein nodded slowly, the initial nerves giving way to a growing sense of anticipation. He imagined himself in a suit, maybe even matching Garroth's suggestion of something classic yet elegant. The thought of dancing and being part of the school community in this new way felt strangely exhilarating.

"Yeah," Ein finally said with a genuine smile, "I think I'm looking forward to it."

But as the conversation about the dance continued, Ein's mind wandered to Aaron. He considered the idea of asking him to the dance, drawn to the thought of sharing such a milestone with someone he was growing closer to. However, a wave of hesitation washed over him as quickly as the idea had come.

He glanced at Aaron, who was sitting all by himself at a nearby table. The fear of rejection and the potential fallout weighed heavily on Ein. What if Aaron didn't feel the same way? What if he reacted negatively to Ein's feelings or worse, to Ein's sexuality? The thought churned his stomach with anxiety.

"He probably wouldn't want to associate with me anymore if he found out," Ein thought quietly to himself, his smile fading slightly. The uncertainty clouded his excitement about the dance, reminding him of the barriers he still faced in fully embracing this new aspect of his identity.

As Ein mulled over these thoughts, he silently resolved to keep his feelings to himself for now, unsure of how Aaron would react and unwilling to risk their growing friendship over his own insecurities.

...

Aaron sat in the back of his father's luxurious limousine, his mind swirling with thoughts of Ein. He couldn't shake the image of Ein's expressive eyes and fiery personality. The way Ein stood up for himself and others, despite the challenges he faced, left a deep impression on Aaron. As the city lights passed by, Aaron found himself questioning his own actions and feelings. He wondered if there could be more between them beyond the complexities and misunderstandings. Yet, he hesitated, unsure of how to bridge the gap between them amidst their tangled history.

He recalled the first week of school, watching Ein fight off Gene and the Shadow Knights. Despite being outnumbered, Ein had been relentless, his determination and strength evident in every move. Aaron admired how Ein never backed down, no matter the odds. It was the same determination that had him splitting the group of werewolves earlier during the week, standing alongside his sister, asserting himself with a fiery resolve.

As Aaron thought about these moments, he couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. He had underestimated Ein, misjudged his intentions and actions. He knew he needed to make things right, to find a way to show Ein that he respected him and valued him for who he was.

Aaron's thoughts drifted to the upcoming dance. It was a perfect opportunity, a chance to bridge the gap and perhaps start anew. The idea of asking Ein to the dance formed in his mind, but he quickly dismissed it, uncertainty and fear creeping in. What if Ein didn't feel the same way? What if Aaron's own feelings weren't reciprocated? What if asking Ein to the dance made things even more complicated?

Yet, despite his fears, the thought lingered. Maybe, just maybe, this was the way to move forward, to show Ein that he genuinely cared. Aaron knew he had to find the courage to take that step, even if it meant facing his own insecurities head-on.

As Aaron walked into his house, the grandeur of the foyer did little to soothe the turmoil in his mind. He barely had time to process his thoughts when he ran into his father. The imposing figure of his father, with a stern expression and an air of authority, made Aaron's heart sink.

"Aaron," his father began, his voice laced with disappointment and anger. "I've heard about the trouble you've been causing at school. And now, I hear you're in a relationship with another werewolf?"

Aaron's jaw clenched. "It's not what you think."

His father's eyes narrowed. "Do you have any idea how this reflects on our family? Your behavior is unacceptable, and this... relationship is a disgrace."

Aaron felt his temper flare. The months of frustration, confusion, and guilt boiled over.

"You don't know anything about my life or my choices!" he shouted. "All you care about is your image and your damn reputation!"

His father's face twisted with anger. "Watch your mouth, boy. You will not speak to me that way."

But Aaron was beyond caring. "No, you watch your mouth! I'm sick of you controlling my life and judging everything I do. Maybe if you actually cared about me instead of your precious reputation, you'd understand why I make the choices I do!"

His father took a step closer, towering over Aaron. "You will respect me, Aaron. I am your father, and I know what's best for you. Do you understand the risks? The Ultima curse is not something to take lightly. If you lose control, people could get hurt. I won't have you endangering others because of your foolish decisions."

Aaron glared up at him, the fury in his eyes unyielding. "You don't know anything. Not about me, not about my life, and definitely not about what's best for me. So back off!"

The tension between them was palpable, a chasm that had been widening for years, now gaping open. Aaron's father stood silent for a moment, his face a mask of barely controlled rage. Finally, he turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Aaron standing alone in the foyer, his heart pounding and his anger still simmering.

As the echoes of their argument faded, Aaron felt a mix of defiance and dread. He had stood up to his father, but the consequences of his actions were yet to unfold. The weight of the Ultima curse and his father's expectations pressed heavily on his shoulders, but for the first time, Aaron felt a spark of determination to live his own life, regardless of the challenges ahead.