Wait

Ethan decides to stand his ground and wait.

As the four draw closer he can pinpoint the exact moment the group sees him, hearing an enthusiastic 'Ethan' called out as one of the figures picks up the pace.

Alex is half running towards him while the rest of her friends, for Ethan can tell that's what they are now for sure, lag behind her slightly.

Ethan breathes a sigh of relief. While this may still be awkward, it's going to be a lot better than I could have been.