Chapter 11: "A Hidden Love"
In the days that followed Daniel's unexpected visit, Ste and Ethan's relationship remained strong, despite the tension it had briefly introduced. They were determined to focus on their love and building a future together.
One evening, Ethan found himself without a place to stay for the night due to a last-minute issue with his apartment. He hesitated for a moment before turning to Ste for help.
"Ste, would it be okay if I stayed at your place tonight? My apartment is having some plumbing issues," Ethan explained.
Ste smiled warmly. "Of course, Ethan. You're always welcome here."
So, Ethan gathered a few belongings and headed over to Ste's apartment for the night. As they settled in, they couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of spending the night together, even if it meant keeping their relationship hidden from others for a while longer.
The next morning, Ste and Ethan shared breakfast, feeling grateful for the comfort of being together. But as the day wore on, they realized that it might be a bit complicated for Ethan to continue staying with Ste due to work commitments and the need for a more permanent solution.
Ste decided to offer an alternative. "Ethan, my friends the Lomaxes have an extra room in their house, and they've been looking for a tenant. I could ask them if you'd like to stay there temporarily. It's not too far from here."
Ethan considered the suggestion and nodded appreciatively. "That sounds like a good idea, Ste. I appreciate your help."
With Ste's recommendation, Ethan moved into the Lomax house, and no one suspected that they were actually a couple. They decided to keep their relationship private for the time being, wanting to avoid any unnecessary complications.
As the days turned into weeks, Ste and Ethan continued to build a life together, making memories both in secret and in plain view of their friends and the residents of Hollyoaks. They knew that the time would come when they could openly share their love with the world, but for now, they cherished the moments they had together, knowing that their hidden love was a precious and beautiful secret shared only between the two of them.