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okay-j-hannah · 1 month ago

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The Kickstart | Smosh 💛

Smosh : Multishot

Spencer Agnew x Reader

Word Count: 10k

Warnings: slow burn, strangers to friends, friends to lovers, Spencer pining, reader is struggling in LA, not a lot of money, multiple jobs, poor studio apartment, inconsiderate boyfriend, lots of musical theatre talk, reader insert but a few things are already decided (last name is Bennett, favorite drink is Diet Coke, love the colors blue and green, artist, theatre nerd, etc.)

Request: This just came from my own head 😊

A/N: I haven't written for Smosh in years... but the current cast and crew has me sucked back into the fandom. And I am sorely in need of more Spencer content 😭

I was initially inspired by this incredibly well done fic "Late Night" by @simpingsavant Please give it a read because it's a masterpiece.

Part 1: The Kickstart {You Are Here}

Part 2: Mama Bear

It was nearly three in the morning. The witching hour, you think with a smile. There was a light flickering near the fountain drinks. You lean against the checkout counter, thumbing through an aged script.

You memorize the cue lines that signal when quick changes are supposed to happen between scenes. The current musical you are working on is Hairspray.

Going through the script and your production notes really help pass the time.

The small rinky-dink gas station you manage is your reluctant home most nights. It wasn’t your favorite place, but it helped with the bills. Trying to make a living on production design for musicals isn’t the money maker you hoped it would be in LA.

You barely made anything doing hair and makeup for the community theatre. But it was something you loved.

And wouldn’t you rather be doing something you love than being miserable in a high paying corporate job?

Sure, you think.

It had been nearly eight months since you started working at this gas station. The owner was as rinky-dink as the store itself, speaking in short, to the point sentences and avoiding eye contact. There were only two gas pumps out front that rarely attracted customers.

The biggest commodity are the cheap drinks and snacks inside. Many stop by for something quick on their way to and from work.

Normally working the night shifts from 10pm to 6am, you are quick to notice any regulars. Not many people are awake at this time of night, let alone on their way to the gas station for a drink.

The bell sounds above the door as a familiar face enters. It was Glasses.

That’s what you called him after seeing him for the third time in a week, back when you first started working here.

He usually came in late like this, looking exhausted. He has curly dark hair, gold rimmed glasses, and some scruff. Today he’s dressed in jeans rolled up at the cuffs, brown boots, and a gray sweatshirt.

He gives you an awkward, close-lipped smile as he passes. You watch him go for the drink fridges. Energy drinks are his specialty, maybe the occasional coffee or breakfast sandwich. He always bought them two at a time, taking the slight discount for buying a duo instead of a single.

About every other week he’s there three to four of those days. You’ve always wondered why – especially when he always looked so tired when he came in.

But you’ve never had a conversation that’s lasted longer than the cordial exchanges.

“Hello,” you say.

“Hello,” he replies with his awkward smile.

You scan his drinks, Mountain Dew Kickstarts like always. “Find everything you need?”

“Yep.”

The computer beeps. “That’ll be $8.56.”

“All right.” He taps his card on the machine in front of him.

“Would you like your receipt?”

“No thanks.” He grabs his two cans.

“Have a nice night.”

“You too.”

It had been like that for maybe six of those eight months. After that, your curiosity began to plague you. The next time he came in, you watch him browse for a Kickstart and a breakfast muffin.

Saying hello to him had felt routine. But it was clear that you both recognized each other. So you decide to say something a little more than usual.

“Getting breakfast a little early?” you joke in your quiet voice.

He smiles, pulling out his wallet. “I just haven’t eaten anything all night.”

“Sounds like a rough night. That’s $9.34.”

He scans his card. “It has been.”

With him looking down at the keypad, you take the time to look at the circles under his eyes. “You should try the croissant sandwiches. Much better than stale muffins.”

He nods his head, “Next time. Thanks.”

You watch him walk away, still at a loss as to why he’s always in there this late at night.

A couple days later he’s walking in and giving you a wave. You smile at him as he makes for the drinks again.

He’s dressed in those same jeans and combat boots. Now he wears a t-shirt with a denim jacket. If you had friends to talk to, you’d want to tell them how Glasses loves to wear the same jeans and jackets all the time.

He comes to the counter and clears his throat.

You scan his drinks and a breakfast sandwich. A croissant sandwich.

You chuckle, “You won’t be disappointed.”

“I’m counting on it,” he says, tapping his card against his hand while he waits.

“Haven’t eaten anything all night again?”

He hums, shrugging his shoulders, “Felt peckish.”

“Do you want your receipt?”

“No, that’s fine. Have a good night.”

You throw the balled up receipt into the garbage bin beside you. “You too.”

You’d love to tell a friend that Glasses seems shy. He seems nice.

A few weeks later, you’re drawing sketches for costume designs. You were doing Shrek The Musical at the community theatre. Papers were full of drawings depicting a white rabbit, a wicked witch, a wolf in granny clothes, and fairies with colorful makeup.

You were humming one of the songs when Glasses came in with a yawn. His eyes search for you and he waves, “Good evening.”

“Good night,” you say sarcastically.

He grabs his drinks and comes to the counter with wandering eyes. You try to move your sketches and pencils out of the way.

“Sorry,” you say, “That’ll be $8.56.”

He scans his card, but keeps looking at your art. “You draw those?”

“Yeah,” you say, abashedly. “Little project.”

“They’re really good,” he pops open one of the drinks and takes a sip. “Are they just for fun, or…?”

You shyly pull out a drawing of a person in a dragon scale costume. “They’re for the musical I’m a part of. Down at the local theatre.”

“That’s cool,” his face lights up.

Something warm tickles your stomach. You were actually having a normal conversation with Glasses.

“Are you the costume designer?”

“Assistant,” you bow your head. “I’m head of hair and makeup.”

He nods, clearly interested. “Have you been a part of production teams much?”

“For years,” you smile, “I love theatre. I’ve done almost everything. Acting, costumes, set design, lighting – you name it.”

He pockets the other energy drink in his jacket pocket. “Sounds like fun. Have a nice rest of your night.”

“Thank you, you too.”

If you had friends, maybe you’d tell them that Glasses might become a friend. The only person you have to text is your new boyfriend Aaron. But he wasn’t a fan of nonsense texts – texts that were unnecessary.

A few weeks go by, now seven months into your job at the gas station. Glasses was still making his almost daily visits. You caught him standing outside the window for a minute before coming in.

You have confusion in your face, but a smile on your lips. “You okay there?”

He raises his eyebrows and talks as he walks to the fridges. “What do you mean?”

“Was there something on that window or were you just making sure you weren’t a vampire?” At his knitted brows, you continue, “You know… checking that you still had a reflection.”

Heat floods your face at the poor attempt at a joke, but Glasses laughs, nonetheless. “I might be nocturnal, but no, I’m not a vampire.”

You smile, admiring him walking towards you. His fluffy curls were sticking out from beneath a green hat. In white embroidery it says, Smosh.

“How were auditions?” he asks, getting his card ready.

You bite the inside of your cheek. “Good. I think we’ll have a good cast.” Earlier that week he asked about the latest Hairspray script that was on your counter. “The quick changes will be fun.”

He clears his throat, having paid but still standing at the register.

“I’m sorry, did you want your receipt?” you ask suddenly. “Normally you don’t so I stopped asking.”

“No, no – sorry. I’ve been trying to find some clever segway to introduce myself. But we’ve been seeing each other for months and it feels strange to do it now.” He rubs his forehead, struggling to maintain eye contact with you while he talks. “I mean, it’s not like I have a nametag like you.”

You look down at your chest to see (Y/N) printed on the laminated tag. “That’s true.”

He takes a deep breath and extends his hand. “I’m Spencer.”

You take his hand. It was very warm. “(Y/N).”

He smiles, “Nice to officially meet you.”

Maybe you’ll tell Aaron that Glasses has a new name now. Spencer.

One night at two in the morning, you were asked to do inventory while another employee managed the registers. It was strange to have a coworker with you on night shifts, but when things need to be restocked, it took a team.

You use a box cutter to break through packages, pulling out chip bags and candies. You roll them out on a dolly. Plastic wrappers crinkling as you restock shelves, you don’t notice who Eric at the counter is talking to.

But then a pair of glasses peek around the corner. “Hey!”

You smile wide, “Spencer!”

He smiles back, “I was worried when I didn’t see you at the registers.”

“Yeah, they need two of us here when we do inventory,” you shake a bag of doritos before putting it on the shelf. “How was your day?”

He sighs, opening his drink, “Long. Shooting weeks always are.” He tells you about the online comedy group he’s a part of. It was called Smosh.

“Oh, you’ve worn some merch that has that logo on it,” you say, moving a box out of the way.

Spencer nods, “Gotta promote whenever we can.”

“How large is the group?”

“Well, it’s more of an entertainment company. We have a huge production team and a cast. We film content for four different channels.”

“That’s impressive.”

He suddenly dips down to help hand you boxes of candy. “I guess. I think most of LA are internet personalities in one way or another.”

“I’m not,” you say quietly. “It is impressive.”

You learn about his directorial position on one of the channels. Being a head producer, he has a lot of sway on that content. You commend him on the responsibility, and he seems pleased, if not a little embarrassed.

He excuses himself not long after that.

You head towards the registers to restock the candy on the counters. Eric is there giving you a telling smile.

“What are you looking at?” you ask.

The middle-aged man scoffs, “That guy came in with the biggest smile on his face, but then he realized I was the one standing at the counter and he looked so disappointed.”

“I’m sure he was just in need of an energy drink.”

Eric shakes his head, “It wasn’t me that he wanted to see.”

Now in the present, you stand at the counter while Spencer leans against the other side. You had just revealed the fact that you have a boyfriend.

“H-How long have you been together?” he asks with much more nervousness than before.

You scrunch your nose in thought, “About two months. It’s been great though. He gives me rides to work and everything.”

“You don’t have a car?” Spencer asks, paying for his snacks.

You throw the receipt away, “No. I was taking the bus before I met him.” Noticing the awkwardness enter Spencer’s face, you say, “Rough I know. But I manage.”

“It’s nice of him.”

“Yeah, especially because I don’t really make enough to get a car right now.”

“Isn’t that why you have this job on top of the musical theatre stuff?” he offers you a package of your favorite candy.

It makes you smile, “Sure. But rent isn’t helping with my savings. Living paycheck to paycheck.”

“Does Aaron drive you to theatre too?”

Your gaze falls from Spencer’s, eating a piece of candy to give you some time before answering. “No, he’s not a big fan of musicals.”

Spencer scrunches his brow. Unsure of what was stepping over the line with this new friend of his, he tiptoes. “He won’t drive you because he doesn’t like theatre?”

“It’s kind of inconvenient asking him to come get me late after rehearsals. I shouldn’t ask for so much, he’ll think I’m dating him just to have a cab driver.” You snicker at your joke, but Spencer doesn’t seem to think it’s very funny.

He drinks from his can when another customer enters the store. That always meant he would excuse himself so you could get back to your job.

You start to expect Spencer each week. You wait for when you know a filming week was at Smosh. During that time, Spencer would visit for his necessary caffeine. He always stops to talk to you for a few minutes before leaving.

You always feel bad since he normally came in exhausted from work. He denies himself sleep just to spend a few more minutes with you.

It takes a couple more weeks, but he starts to stay even when more customers come in. He just steps to the side and waits for you to ring the customer up.

Then he comes back to continue your conversation.

“So do you prefer acting or production?”

You share the snacks that he’s purchased. “Production, for sure. I kind of developed stage fright a couple years ago. But I do miss being on stage sometimes.”

He looks at you while you talk. He’s an active listener. He zeros in on your face while you speak, ensuring he doesn’t miss anything.

But when he speaks, he tends to look elsewhere. “Did something happen?”

You shrug, “I just get nervous being in the spotlight now. I don’t like the attention much.”

“I get that. I haven’t always loved being on camera. It’s taken finding the right company to do it.”

You nod, “That sounds nice. To be so comfortable in the workplace. And to have everyone there as friends.”

He agrees, “Though a lot of them like to crack jokes about not seeing each other outside of work.” He chuckles as he remembers something. “It’s great being a part of a company where the goal is comedy content. You get to have fun with your friends every day.”

“And you’ve been there for so long,” you say, “You’ve definitely earned your place.”

“Thank you,” he feels warm around the collar, “It’s been hard at times, but well worth it now.”

You suddenly feel a warmth in your cheeks. “You know, um… my show opens next week. If – If you’re interested in seeing it. I’ll be there every night.”

“Helping Edna quick change into her fancy 60s outfit,” he smiles kindly. His eyes are soft and considerate as he watches your nervous gesture. “I wouldn’t miss it.”

You brighten, “Great!”

A week later you’re in the wings of the stage, sweaty with the heat the spotlights generate. A headset adorns your head, microphone near your mouth. You’re readjusting a costume onto a rack from the last quick change.

The last number of the show was currently playing: You Can’t Stop the Beat. You whisper the lyrics and subtly follow along with the choreography.

It was safe to do so with the curtains hiding you from the audience.

You listen to the applause as the cast bows. You imagine them gesturing to the tech booth, acknowledging the production team behind the scenes. You give a little imaginary bow to the audience.

Waiting in the dressing rooms, you help organize the costumes and clean up the makeup counters. Cast members thank you for your help, carrying massive bouquets and presents from the crowd.

You compliment the flowers and give your praise to their performances. It’s forty minutes later, having put the makeup and hairspray away, preening the wigs, and spraying down the character shoes, that you find your purse and head towards the front doors.

Outside on the sidewalk you’re met with an unexpected surprise.

Spencer.

He stands under the white lights of the theatre logo. He adorns his usual rolled up jeans and band t-shirt, denim jacket over it. His curls look extra defined tonight and in his hand are three colorful carnation flowers.

“Spencer? What are you…? I didn’t know you were coming tonight!” You walk towards him and for the first time since meeting him – you hug him.

Arms around his shoulders, smelling his clean, fresh scent. He seems timid to hug you back.

“Well… I did say I would come see the show.”

You shake your head. “I would have come out sooner if I knew you’d be here. I’m so sorry to keep you so long.”

“It’s no problem,” he offers the flowers. “Worth the wait.”

You give a smile, but your face is still regretful, “You shouldn’t have. I wasn’t even on stage.”

“Of course you were,” he says, “Your costumes and wigs and makeup were there.”

You hold the few flowers, completely endeared by him. “Thank you. This is really kind of you. You didn’t have to.”

He shrugs, shoving his empty hands into his pockets. “It’s kind of weird seeing you out of uniform. I’ve never seen you out of that polo and black pants.”

“Well, stage crew attire isn’t much different,” you laugh, gesturing to the long sleeve black shirt and leggings. “What did you think of the show?”

“It was excellent,” he says, “It’s such a fun show. I bet you loved teasing those wigs and picking out costumes with those crazy patterns.”

“And the quick changes?”

“I counted like 38 seconds,” he laughs, “That’s super impressive.”

You smile warmly, though the night air had a chill to it. “Thank you for coming, Spencer. It means a lot.”

“Of course,” he steps away, “I’ll see you later.”

You start to walk down the sidewalk, opposite the parking lot. Spencer suddenly has a thought. He runs up to you.

“Wait, how are you getting home?”

“Oh, I walk to the bus stop and take that.”

He looks down at your crossed arms trying to keep you warm. “Aaron really won’t come get you?”

“I don’t want to inconvenience him.” You wave away the look of worry in his face. “I do this every night, it’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“Yeah, but… you shouldn’t have to.”

“Have a good night, Spence.”

You’ve never used a nickname with him before. He huffs a little before following your retreating figure, “Then let me give you a ride.”

You keep walking, “Really, Spence – I’ll be okay.”

“I know,” he says, “But let me help. I want to give you a ride. It’s cold.”

Your fingers feel like ice against your arms. You look in the direction of the bus stop before looking at the pleading in Spencer’s face.

“Okay,” you say quietly. “Thank you.”

Relief floods his expression, “Great, this way.”

He guides you to his car and even opens the passenger door for you. It’s a kind gesture that you aren’t used to. He turns on the heater and your seat warmer before exiting the parking lot.

You direct him to your poor excuse of a studio apartment. The pair of you speak pleasantries the entire way. The lighting design of the musical, the strategic sets that move quickly, the realistic prop hairspray, and things like that.

He didn’t notice how you cower in the seat. He thinks it’s just because you’re still cold.

“Is the gas station good about changing your schedule so you can be there on show nights?”

“Yes, they’re so kind about it,” you say, playing with your fingers. It was a nervous habit of yours – pinching, rubbing, and picking at them. “I switch with a usual day shifter.”

Spencer nods, “I – I’ve missed seeing you at our usual time.”

“Our usual time?” you laugh, like your gas station hangouts were scheduled playdates.

He smiles, embarrassed, “Yeah, I mean… your customer service is so excellent. How am I supposed to get a Kickstart when you’re not there?”

“You know there are dozens of other gas stations and convenience stores around here.”

“Yeah, but they don’t have you.”

Something beats loudly in your chest. It sends a waterfall of warm, fizzing fireworks into your stomach.

Your apartment building is in a scary part of LA – but it’s what you can afford. Aaron was hinting at moving in together just for the ease of splitting the rent. It did sound appealing when you could actually save a little for a car.

“Thanks again for the ride,” you say, unbuckling your seatbelt.

He looks nervous again, “Anytime. And… maybe we could exchange numbers – in case you need another ride from the theatre?”

You look at him warmly, “I’m not going to ask you to come grab me when you could be in a filming week.”

He shrugs his shoulders, “I would still come.”

With a small smile, you take out your phone and open a new contact. In the name slot you put ‘Glasses.’ Spencer switches your phones and puts his number in.

You smile wider as you put your name in the contact and put a little theatre emoji after it.

“Glasses?” he asks, handing you back your phone.

“Yeah, that’s…” you brush warm fingers with him as you accept your phone. “That’s what I called you when I noticed you as a regular at the gas station. I didn’t know your name, so I gave you one in my head.”

He seems overly please about that. He has to look away from you and smile. “That’s funny, I like it. What would you do if you saw me without glasses? It would be a whole new identify to you.”

“Very Clark Kent of you,” you laugh.

He suddenly removes his gold rimmed glasses and looks at you all serious. “You’re right, during the day I’m fighting crime with the Justice League and at night I refuel at the gas station.”

“Superman refuels with energy drinks?” you laugh, causally reaching over to snatch his glasses. “I don’t know if Krypton would approve.”

“No, no – Kryptonians thrive off extra energy. Sun energy and now caffeine energy.”

His eyes are a dark green-gray color. Maybe that’s just because it’s dark outside. But you can’t decide what color they actually are. They’re definitely not brown.

You raise the glasses to your eyes and look at him. “I didn’t realize Superman was so blind.”

“It’s not that bad,” Spencer laughs, looking at you fondly.

You return the glasses, “Drive safe. Thanks again for the ride. Text me when you get home safely.”

He waves you off, waiting until you’re able to unlock your door before driving away.

Inside your apartment, you look at the chipped walls and cracked ceiling. The musty, uncomfortable couch in front of the small tv atop a table you got free off a lawn. To the right is the tiny kitchen with only one counter and no dining table.

Rummaging through a cabinet, you find a tall plastic cup to put your carnation flowers into.

The bathroom is straight ahead, where you go into to get ready for bed.

The porcelain of the tub and sink have rust stains around the handles. The tile of the floor is broken in places and the dim light above is giving off an ugly yellow glow.

You open the mirror cabinet to grab what you need to brush your teeth. Brand names are all obscure as you did get the supplies from a dollar store down the street.

If you had a little more money, you would buy a face wash and face towels. But the essentials were good enough.

You cross the hall to get to your bed. Being a studio apartment, there isn’t a separate room for your bed. It lies on the floor behind the tv stand and in front of the only window in the whole place.

The queen mattress was the one thing you spent a little more money on. It doesn’t have a headboard or support to keep it off the ground, but it was comfortable and had nice periwinkle blue sheets.

You change into sage green pajamas with little daisies on them, climbing into your bed and fumbling for the phone charger next to the mattress.

As you plug your phone in, a text message comes in from Glasses.

“Just got home. You did amazing tonight! See you later this week.”

You heart his message and give him a thank you in reply.

~~~

The end of the week is approaching and you’re at the theatre again. Headset on, you hang in the tech booth, grabbing a few more safety pins, mic tape, and alcohol wipes.

The oversized fanny pack you love to wear across your chest is open and full of supplies. You stuff the microphone items inside, watching the stage from the view of the booth.

Tracy was beginning the song Welcome to the 60s. You turn on the microphone by your mouth.

“Head to the wings for quick change pretty please.”

A muffled reply comes through the headset, “On the way, (Y/N).”

You leave the tech booth and walk out of the audience room to the side entrance of the wings. Waiting on stage right, you hold Edna’s new dress for the song. Two stage crew members help by holding accessories and waiting to take off Edna’s current costume.

“Go mama, go, go go!”

Edna comes running off to stage right, tossing their purse to the stage crew member. They wiggle out of their simple purple plaid dress and step right into the sparkly pink dress you have waiting open on the floor.

You pull up the fabric as you hear the lyrics continue on stage.

“Don’t let nobody try to steal your fun, ‘cause a little touch of lipstick never hurt no one.

The future’s got a million roads for you to choose, but you’ll walk a little taller in some high-heeled shoes.”

You zip up the dress and readjust the mic pack on the suit strap beneath. Stage crew throws a new necklace on and a sparkle to the lip makeup. The other stage crew snugs a fuller wig onto the actor, starting to pin it down onto the wig cap. You hand a feather boa to the actor and help pin the new wig in.

“Come on out, hear us shout. Mama, that’s your cue!”

Just in time, you think, sending the actor back onto stage. It always felt like a close call, but the audience shouting their surprise and praise always felt like a reward.

You smile at the stage crew members and wave them off to help with set pieces. You then take the old purple plaid costume to the rack to keep it from wrinkling on the floor.

While in the dressing rooms you meet the actress playing Penny Pingleton, “Hey, sis – I noticed your mic tape not sitting so good on your cheek.”

She smiles worriedly, the action making the mic tape unstick from her face and the microphone dangle from her ear. “Just a little.”

You pull out an alcohol wipe and roll of tape from your pack. “There might just be too much makeup in the way.” You wipe the spot where the microphone sits on her cheek, fanning your hand to make the alcohol dry.

Cutting two pieces of tape, you line the microphone and stick it in place. The actress keeps her face straight, letting it adhere.

“Thanks, (Y/N).”

“Anytime.” You leave the dressing room to find the man playing Seaweed. His mic belt kept twisting beneath his costume.

You track him down and use safety pins to secure the mic belt to his undershirt. Now as he dances and changes, the mic pack will stay in place. He shares his gratitude and runs off to the next scene.

The rest of the show goes without a hitch. The audience claps during the bows, and you give your imaginary bow to the curtains.

You begin to clean the dressing rooms when you get a text. From Glasses.

“Hey, I’m at the entrance by the concessions when you’re done in the back.”

A smile creeps onto your face. He saw the show a second time? You text back, “I’ll be there in five minutes.”

You’re quick to clean up and organize the costumes before heading out. The front was still packed with audience members trying to talk and take pictures with the cast members. You push your way towards the concessions table to see Spencer there.

He was wearing a black Creed t-shirt, arms full of silly tattoos on total display. Instead of holding flowers, he’s holding a Diet Coke from the concessions. You grin, falling out of the crowd and into him for a hug.

He catches you and hugs you back. You feel the cold soda against your shirt.

“I can’t believe you came again!” You pull away, eyes shining. You’ve never had someone to meet outside the theatre after a show before.

He extends the drink he got for you. “I told you it was an excellent show. And I wanted to bring a friend to see it too.”

A woman stands beside him, “And he misses seeing you at the gas station every day.”

You miss how Spencer nudges the woman with his elbow. You were too busy recognizing her face.

“Oh my god – oh my fucking god,” you accidentally shake the soda as you wave your hands. “You’re Angela Giarratana!”

Her brown eyes widen ridiculously, “Um… yeah, I am.”

“You were on Nerdy Prudes Must Die!”

A smile replaces the surprise on her face, “Oh, yes! I was in that show last year. You really scared me there for a second.”

Spencer licks his lips, watching the excitement on your face. “I wondered if you’d seen anything from StarKid.”

“Well, I’m a theatre kid, aren’t I?” you say, “I literally have a Hatchetfield Nighthawks letterman jacket. It’s so nice to meet you, Angela. I’m (Y/N).” You lean into a hug and Angela returns it kindly.

“I know, Spencer’s talked about you.” She steps away and compliments the show, “You did a great job with the costume design. Spencer and I were timing the quick changes.”

“I am very proud of those,” you say excitedly. “I’m sorry, I can’t stop smiling. Thank you for coming to our show. How do you know Spencer?”

Angela smacks Spencer’s arm, “We work together. He’s more behind the scenes and I’m more on camera.”

“At Smosh? That’s awesome!”

“Yeah, it’s all right,” she says, looking to Spencer and then laughing. “I gotta be careful or Spencer won’t put me in any of the videos on Games.”

You open your soda, drinking it like you were parched all night. “Are you working on any more theatre projects?”

“Eh, not at the moment,” Angela says, folding her arms. “I’m spending most of my time on Smosh sets.” She eyes you for a second before saying, “Do you have a portfolio by chance?”

“A portfolio?” you ask, wiping your lip of soda. “Of what?”

Angela rubs at her chin, “Sketches of your costume designs or makeup aesthetics. Maybe a performing arts resume. Pictures of your work on stage.”

“Um…” you pull awkwardly on the edge of your shirt. “No, not formally. But I could pull something together.”

“That’d be great. I’d love to see more of your work.”

Spencer looks incredibly pleased with himself, biting on his lips. “Would you let me give you a ride home?”

Your eyes are still shining, flitting your gaze between the two friends. “Um… yeah – that’d be great.”

All of you walk outside the theatre and towards the parking lot. Spencer is quick to open the passenger door for you and you give an awkward thank you.

Angela rolls her eyes and climbs into the back. “He’s such a doofus.” You watch Spencer walk around the hood of the car to get into the drivers side.

“A what?” you laugh.

“Just watch him – you’ll notice sooner or later.”

He climbs in and uses the seatbelt, “Watch who?”

You clear your throat, “Joey Richter. He’s another actor on StarKid Productions. He’s super talented.”

Angela snickers in the back. “What was the first thing you watched on StarKid?”

“A Very Potter Musical,” you laugh, “Way back in the day.”

“Classic,” Angela says, folding her arms and slumping into the seat. “What brought you to LA?”

You play with your fingers. “I wanted to move out of my home state. And I wanted to get more into the arts. But it’s been hard to find stable work.”

“You’re telling me. That’s the life of an actor – just jumping from one gig to another.”

“It would be the dream,” you sigh, “To do this full time. I just wish I had a little more security with it. A stable income. Not to be afraid with how I’ll afford food every month.” You awkwardly laugh as you realize you might’ve said too much. “But I’m doing all right.”

Angela agrees, “It’s hard to do well in the arts.”

“Hard to be recognized,” Spencer says. “(Y/N) already does well in the arts.”

You smile, your cheeks warm. “When is your next filming week?”

“Next week,” Angela sighs, yawning big. “Which reminds me – I gotta pick up that new pair of glasses for the office.”

“Angela is super blind and never wears her glasses during shoots,” Spencer explains. “Especially on the games channel. She’s always squinting super bad at the tv whenever we’re playing a game.”

“And I’ve been doing just fine!” Angela says loudly, “I’ve been training my eyes to see that far.”

Spencer scoffs, “Yeah, and the compilations of you squinting are growing at an exponential rate because of it.”

“Shut up!” Angela yells.

You laugh at their antics. “Are you allowed to yell at your boss like that?”

Spencer looks in the rearview mirror, “Yeah, Angela. As your superior you need to treat me with a high level of respect. I expect a full written apology and a certain amount of groveling before you’re allowed back on the Games set.” His tone was serious, but by the wide comical look in his eye, you know he’s using hyperbole as a joke.

“The heads of Smosh are actually Ian and Anthony, so don’t you even pull that superiority card!”

You keep giggling at this funnier, more outspoken Spencer. Proof that he was very comfortable with this coworker and their workplace.

It sounds nice.

~~~

Angela sits in the passenger seat now, slumped into the door and leaning her forehead against the window.

“She’s really nice.”

“Yeah,” Spencer says quietly, thoughts still lingering on you.

Angela looks over at him and smirks. “You like her so fucking much. I knew you did when you wouldn’t shut up about her at the office, but damn – seeing you with her was nearly painful.”

“What are you talking about? I’m so subtle about it.”

“So you don’t deny it!” she sits up stick straight, so fast that the seatbelt locks into place and stops her from moving anymore.

Spencer flounders, “I – what – no, that’s not what I said!”

“You totally did you little fucker! You like her so much it hurts. You like her so much your cheeks are going to burst into flames. You like her so much you can’t get a full sentence out.”

“Angela, shut the fuck up – you don’t know what you’re talking about!”

She bounces in her seat, “I’m so subtle about it. I can’t believe you. You’ve been talking about this girl for almost a year. Of course you have a crush on her!”

“Angela, I swear to god, don’t ruin this for me.”

“How would I ruin this? I want my little Spencey to have true love. You have to ask her out.”

“Yeah, genius – you’re forgetting about a teensy little detail. She has a fucking boyfriend.”

Angela freezes, sitting back. “Right.” She bites her lip, “Should have made your shot earlier.”

“And risk looking like a creep asking a girl out at a gas station? No thank you.”

“Is you considering her for the production team on Smosh an elaborate way to play the long game with her?”

“No!” Spencer grips the steering wheel, sounding like a bickering sibling. “She has real talent, and I think she deserves the position.”

Angela holds up her hands, “All right, okay.” She side eyes him with raised brows, “… but you wouldn’t be upset if she suddenly became available and you could ask her out?”

He refuses to meet Angela’s eyes. “I’m not giving you the satisfaction by answering that question.”

“You basically just answered it,” she folds her arms, “You know… I can’t promise I can keep this from Amanda. Or Shayne.”

Spencer puts his elbow against the window and holds his temple.

“Or Chanse.”

“I figured.”

Angela gave him a sympathetic smile. “For what it’s worth – I think she has a real shot. We should get her portfolio to Ian and Anthony asap.”

~~~

You’re cleaning the counters at the gas station. It’s nearing the end of your shift, almost 6am. And Spencer hadn’t visited you like he usually did. It was actually making you worried.

You had spent the last few days collecting every piece of art and experience you had to compile a portfolio. It didn’t feel like a very thick folder, but it had every ounce of hard work from the last few years.

It sits within a blue cover under the registers, waiting for Spencer to come.

“Hey!” there he comes through the door. “I’m so sorry, we had an overnight shoot, and I forgot to tell you.”

You look confused, “Spence, you didn’t have any obligation to be here. We didn’t make any plans.”

“I know, but I usually…” he looks flustered and upset. “You know, you’re right. I’m sorry.”

You smile kindly, “It’s okay. I’m not angry.”

He runs a hand through his curly hair, his eyes considering you as you clean. “This early in the morning, we both look exhausted now.”

“Aw, we have matching dark circles under our eyes!” You go under the counter to grab the blue folder. “Here’s that portfolio Angela was asking about. I wasn’t sure how to get it to her, so maybe you could take it to work?”

“Um… yeah, for sure. Thanks.”

The bell above the door rings, signaling the appearance of a new customer. Usually at this point in the mornings, customers would come in for their sustenance before work. You’re focused on Spencer, unaware of the person walking towards you.

“(Y/N), let’s go.”

You turn your eyes around and see Aaron beelining for your counter.

“Oh, hey,” you say quietly, “You’re twenty minutes early.”

“And?”

This man was over six foot, broad shouldered, and unkempt. His eyes are lazy and hard pressed, his jaw tense as you contradict him.

You wring your hands, “I’m not allowed to leave until six.”

“Well, I’m here now. Let’s go.”

“That’s…” you suck in a breath. He smells like stale beer. “Let me clock out and tell my boss.” You round the counter and are quick to enter the back rooms.

Spencer stays where he is, holding the blue portfolio, and looking at Aaron with an air of disdain. It was not the first impression he was expecting when picturing your boyfriend.

“You waiting to buy something?” Aaron asks, frowning at the way Spencer’s looking at him.

“No, I was just…” he swallows. “I was just talking with (Y/N).”

Aaron squints his eyes, hands moving to his hips. “And you know her because?”

“Because we’re friends.”

“(Y/N) doesn’t have any friends.”

“Untrue, because I’m standing right here.”

Aaron flexes his jaw, “She hasn’t mentioned you before.”

“Yes, I have,” you reappear without your nametag and your purse now around your shoulder. “I’ve talked about him a couple times.” You stand beside Spencer and instantly feel the tension.

Aaron extends his hand like he wants to take yours. “If you did talk about him, I would have remembered. We’re leaving.”

You go to hold his hand, but he moves his to grab your arm, pulling you towards the door. You turn your head to mouth, “Sorry,” towards Spencer.

Spencer waves at you, his face placid and upset. He watches out the windows to see Aaron let you go on the sidewalk to get into the car yourself. He slams the car shut, neglecting his seatbelt, and squealing out of the parking lot.

Still upset, Spencer gets into his car and contemplates his next move. His instincts told him that you weren’t completely safe. He wonders if you and Aaron have moved in together yet – he was trying to pull the ‘cheaper rent’ card on that account.

It was blatantly clear that Aaron was gaslighting you. Within three minutes, he was pegged as an asshole.

Spencer pulls out his phone and sends you a text. “Nice seeing you today, hope you get some good sleep.”

He rubs hard at his face before driving off. He plans to show your portfolio to Ian and Anthony tomorrow.

~~~

You’re sitting on the couch, playing on your PlayStation, when someone knocks on the door. Enjoying the day off, you wonder what door-to-door salesman is at your house.

You open the door and a giant smile envelopes your face, “Spencer! You didn’t tell me you were going to visit.”

He take a breath, “Um… yeah, I wanted to ask you something and I couldn’t wait until you were on shift.”

You lean against the doorframe, biting your lip. “Well, I would invite you inside, but I have to warn you… it’s not very nice.”

“I don’t care,” he says matter-of-factly. “I just want to talk.”

“All right,” you say shyly, opening the door wide. You watch his reaction, already feeling embarrassment brewing in your stomach.

Spencer looks around for a second, taking in the minimal furniture and all around lackluster state of the structure. He zeros in on the old tv displaying your video game.

“Are you playing Red Dead Redemption 2?”

“Uh… yeah,” you say quietly, holding yourself and you walk into the living room. “It’s one of my favorites.”

Spencer smiles, finding it amazing to learn something new about you that he loves. “Nice horse.”

You laugh, sitting on the couch and grabbing your controller. Your cowboy character was riding a white horse in the middle of a river. “It’s the White Arabian you have to tame by Lake Isabella.”

“Is that… like the best horse or something?” Spencer comes to sit beside you, sinking into the musty couch.

“It’s the only elite Arabian horse that you can find in the wild.”

Spencer leans against the couch arm, resting his face in one hand. “I didn’t realize you were a gamer.”

“The more you know me, the more of a nerd I become.”

“Nothing wrong with that, you big nerd.”

You giggle, “What did you want to talk about?’

Spencer clears his throat. “I uh… I took your portfolio to work.”

“What did Angela think?”

“She thought it was all great. But um… a few others got a look at it too.” He shifts uncomfortably on the couch. “There’s this job opening on the production team, specifically on the Smosh main channel. But they would help with all the channels.”

You pause the game again and really look at him. “What is the position?”

“An assistant art coordinator. They help the art directors with creating sets, costumes, and character looks.”

“And what are the responsibilities?”

“They’re looking for someone to manage hair and makeup for Smosh skits and any character work on other channels. Most of the cast do it themselves, but we do need someone who specializes in prosthetics makeup. And you seem to have done that a lot in theatre. We also need someone to manage costume work – the upkeep of them.”

You swallow hard, arms slowly moving to hold yourself. “Do you know what the salary is?”

“I think it’s around 50k-60k. You’ll make between $24 - $28 an hour.”

You bite your cheek. “That’s great.” You look at your surroundings. This new job would be paying you over $10 more than you’re getting now. “Are you saying Smosh is interested in interviewing me for assistant art coordinator?”

Spencer nods his head. “That is basically what I’m saying.”

“Did you show your bosses my portfolio on purpose?” You lower your eyes but look at him through your lashes.

He takes a deep breath, stretching out on the couch. “Maybe. Maybe I thought you deserved a chance.” He looks at you seriously, “I think you’ve got some real talent, (Y/N). You should go for an interview.”

“I… I don’t know what to say.”

“Say you’ll do it.”

You look at him, “I’m suddenly super nervous.” A laugh escapes you, “I… I have to talk to Aaron about it.”

“Okay,” Spencer says with an edge. He tries to be respectful. “Have you two…”

“We’ve moved in together,” you say softly. “To make bills a little easier. And… and as a trial run, I guess. I’ll be able to save up for a car now.”

Spencer has a finger on the corner of his mouth. “Do you think you could make an interview this Thursday?”

You think for a second, “I’m sure Aaron would be okay with that. I’ll just talk to him about it tonight.”

He doesn’t seem happy about that statement. But instead of saying something he might regret, he points to the PlayStation. “Have you completed this game before?”

“Oh, yeah – maybe three times,” you pick up the controller again. “This time I’m trying to complete all of the side quests before finishing the main story.”

“You should be wearing a cowboy hat while playing.”

“That would be awesome,” you laugh. You look at him with sincerity, “Thank you for looking out for me, Spence. I appreciate the chance.”

He gives a close-lipped smile. “Always.”

~~~

You step off the bus and begin to walk down the street. Using your phone, you follow the directions that Spencer gave you.

The Smosh office was right around the corner.

You enter the building, pulling on the only pair of dress pants you own. You readjust the simple blouse to show off the single diamond necklace you wear around your neck. You hope it gives you a professional first impression.

The main entrance of the building shows a little receptionist desk and plush chairs to wait in. You advance the desk while noticing behind it are many tables and folding chairs – probably for lunches.

“Hello, how are you?” a nice lady at the desk says.

You wave shakily, “I’m good. I’m here for an interview with Mr. Hecox and Mr. Padilla.”

She seems to find you saying their surnames comical judging by the little smile on her face. But she gestures to the plush armchairs behind you. “Sure, just wait there and I’ll call them.”

You turn around and notice that behind the chairs is a large window showing a large kitchen. The lunch tables and folding chairs makes more sense.

“Thank you,” you say, looking down at the name plate, “Selina.” You sit down and holding your famously large fanny pack in your lap. It gives you something to hold with your fidgeting hands.

Now sitting, you can see the wide windows behind Selina’s desk. There’s a long conference table in there with a television and speakers on a stand. There’s a phone speaker in the middle of the table for any people that are being called in remotely.

Behind the conference table is a little sitting area with a couch and armchair. A couple tables and folding chairs are in the rest of the open space. It’s probably a big room for any meetings with teams or big groups of people.

“(Y/N) Bennett?” someone asks. You jump and stand to see two men coming around the corner.

One is taller with dark, wavy styled hair, a nose ring, and cool tattoos spidering up his neck. He has a great smile and just radiates a natural energy you like.

The other is slightly shorter with brown hair in a classic cut. He has a scruffy beard and black square glasses. He gives very much dad energy with how he’s dressed.

“Yes,” you say rather breathlessly. “I’m (Y/N) Bennett.”

“I’m Anthony,” the taller says, “And this is Ian.”

You shake hands with them, Ian gesturing to the conference room. “We’ll meet in here.”

The three of you walk into the room and take seats around the long table. “It’s nice to meet you,” you say quietly, “Thank you for offering me an interview.”

“For sure,” Anthony says, leaning forward in his chair. Ian sits and immediately starts spinning back and forth. “We saw your portfolio and were really impressed with your work.”

“Thank you,” you say eagerly.

Ian clears his throat, “Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?”

“Well, I’m living here with my boyfriend. I’ve lived here for about two years. Before that I was in Nevada, just outside of Vegas. My family is still there,” you say quietly. “I’ve been a theatre and fine arts student all my life. I’ve been doing community and school productions since second grade. I have experience in both stage acting and in tech behind the scenes.”

“Which do you prefer?” Anthony asks.

You hold onto your fanny pack, “Right now, probably tech. I really enjoy designing costumes and putting characters together. Sometimes I do miss acting though.”

“What do you enjoy about art design?” Ian questions.

You focus on his chair spinning back and forth. “I’m a fan of storytelling. I think one of the greatest talents a person can have is in telling a story, no matter the platform. If I can be a part of that process, I’d enjoy every second. I want to show the story in costumes, hair, and makeup. It’s the most expressive way to describe a person or character.”

“Well said,” Anthony nods. “How would you manage a set when coordinating those things?”

“I would need to see the costume closet to know how to care for it. Organization is key, ensuring you don’t lose any pieces. You’d need a costume rack on set and some essentials, like safety pins, apparel tape, a lint roller, things like that. Makeup vanities will need to be disinfected and cleaned after use, brushes clean and organized. Prosthetics and stage makeup would need to be cared for to make sure we don’t share any germs and possible infections. The same goes for any hair and wig essentials.”

Ian seems a little lost in your explanation, just impressed that you were on top of it. “You have a fine arts degree, is that right?”

You nod, voice still quiet with the nerves. “That’s right. I got a bachelor’s in fine arts at Utah Tech University in St. George, Utah.”

“Is that close to where you’re from in Nevada?” Anthony asks.

You smile, “Yeah, it’s just over an hour away. It has a well known outdoor theatre called the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. I helped with a few tech things during summer shows. And then I acted at the college.”

“What shows did you act in?” Anthony asks further.

You play with your fingers. “We did Footloose, Addams Family, The Drowsy Chaperone, Elf: The Musical, Measure for Measure, and Much Ado About Nothing.”

Anthony whistles, “You did Shakespeare?”

“I love Shakespeare,” you say. “Much Ado About Nothing is my favorite play.”

“You are a major theatre kid,” Ian says, “Why don’t you act anymore?”

You squeeze your fanny pack, “I’ve gotten a little camera shy the last couple years. I prefer helping with quick changes and fixing any mic tape mishaps.”

You take a turn asking some questions about their art department and typical filming schedule. You learn about their expectations for the job and what the salary would be. It was exactly as Spencer had said.

Ian and Anthony share a look with each other before leaning forward. Anthony looks at you kindly, “Would you mind if we conference for a minute? We want to give you an answer today.”

You widen your eyes, “Yeah, of course. Thank you.”

The pair stand and excuse themselves to discuss things outside the room. You’re left in the swivel chair, picking at your fingers and praying that the interview went well. It would be incredible to be given a job that grants you the security and stable income you wanted.

There was a chance to have friends here. Spencer and Angela would be here. You would be storytelling in little comedy sketches. You’d be a part of a team that designed characters. You’d be in charge of ensuring faces weren’t shiny on camera, hair was in place, and clothes looked good.

This could be a home for you.

It takes almost ten minutes for Ian and Anthony to return. They come back with two others that are introduced as Cassie and Erin. They are art director and assistant art director for all productions.

You would be working beneath them should you be offered the position.

More questions are asked by the newcomers, and you find them to be very kind and artistic like yourself. You agree on many fronts, having many things in common. You would be happy to be working in their department.

Ian and Anthony both have smiles on their faces when they say:

“(Y/N), we want to formally offer you the position of assistant art coordinator. Responsible for hair and makeup, and the costumes of the cast. You’ll be our main reference for any special effects makeup and prosthetics. And you’ll help coordinate for all four channels.”

Tears start to form in your eyes. “Really?”

Cassie and Erin had faces full of sympathy. Cassie was covering her face with her hands. Erin was folding their arms and smiling.

Ian was standing their awkwardly, looking at your emotional reaction, but Anthony was quicker to ask. “Is that a yes?”

You laugh tearily, “Yes! Yes, I’d love to take the position. Thank you guys so much. I’m so excited – I don’t know what to say other than thank you.”

They all clap momentarily, Ian announcing, “Then we should call everyone to the lunchroom and make introductions.”

“We’ll have Selina bring up contracts to sign,” Anthony says, gesturing to the door. “You want to follow us?”

You nod enthusiastically, shaking hands with everyone on the way out. There are lots of thank yous and congratulations.

Cassie, Erin, and Ian go to round up cast and crew to the lunch tables you spotted earlier. Anthony goes to speak with Selina at the receptionist desk.

You exit the conference room, wiping tears away and clutching your fanny pack.

Spencer was there, pacing by the plush armchairs you sat in earlier. He has his arms crossed, one hand at his mouth, tracing his lips in a nervous gesture.

At your arrival, his head whips to you, eyes wide at the tears running down your face. He looks so afraid, unsure of how the interview went. But he might’ve misinterpreted your tears.

“(Y/N),” he says softly, “What… what did they say?”

He didn’t even notice the other people gathering at the lunch tables.

You walk towards him, still trying to wipe at your face, “Spence.”

He wants to hug you desperately then. He wants to comfort you. And he wants to hurt whoever decided to make you cry.

You throw your arms around his neck, burying your face there. He holds you back, still at a loss as to what the final verdict was.

“(Y/N)!” you hear Anthony, “Get over here!”

Spencer still holds you as you whisper to him, “I got the job.”

He pulls away and holds your waist, “What?”

“I got the job,” you whisper more excitedly. “They’re about to announce it to everyone.” You flounce away to stand at a counter with a few mini fridges, addressing a group of cast and crew. You notice Angela standing in the crowd.

She gives you two thumbs up and you wave back.

Spencer walks over just as Ian begins to talk.

“Hey, guys! We wanted to introduce our newest member of Smosh. This is (Y/N) Bennett!”

Anthony continues, “She will be working in the art department as an assistant art coordinator. She’ll be our head of character design and management of costumes, hair, and makeup.”

The crowd begins clapping and shouting their congratulations. Spencer joins them, standing next to Angela and a few others.

Unbeknownst to the pair of you, some cast and crew were sharing looks. People you hadn’t met yet were winking at each other. They knew full well how much Spencer wanted you to get this job.

You wave at everyone, “Hello! I’m so excited to meet you all and start working on these projects.”

Everyone breaks apart to introduce themselves.

Angela brings over a number of people, “Hey, (Y/N).” She says, “Here are some of our castmates.”

A tall woman in a beautiful jumpsuit says, “I’m Amanda, welcome to the Smosh family.”

“I’m Shayne,” a fit blonde man shakes your hand, “And this is Courtney.”

“Hi,” a blonde woman then shakes your hand, “It’s nice to meet you.”

Angela sticks her head in, “Those two are married.”

You nod, giggling, “Wonderful.”

“I’m Chanse,” a curly haired man says, giving you a hug, “Welcome to the team.”

A tall man with a great mustache waves, “I’m Tommy!”

“Hi!” you say, “It might take me a while to remember all your names. Thank you for being so welcoming. I’m so excited to start.”

“Spencer’s told us a lot about you,” Amanda says with a cheeky smile.

You look toward Spencer’s rosy face. “All good things, I hope.”

“Oh, definitely,” Shayne laughs, “He has nothing but praise for you.”

Spencer ignores the immediate retort that the single worst thing about you is your boyfriend. “You guys need to calm down.”

“Can we give you a tour?” Amanda asks, taking your arm, “The office has a lot of sets and rooms.”

Courtney appears on your other side, “We can show you the art department and the costumes closet!”

“And the makeup vanities,” Chanse says, already leading the way, “There are a couple by the sets, but there is one in the green room where Angela takes her naps.”

“Hey!” Angela instantly retorts, “Hey, hey, hey… uncalled for!”

Amanda scoffs, “But true.”

Angela snorts, “Yeah, sure.”

You are dragged away by Amanda and Courtney, Chanse and Angela still bickering along the way.

Spencer stays where he is with Shayne. The latter having a very knowing smirk on his face. Spencer ignores him as long as he can.

“Have you ever been told that you shouldn’t make faces because you’ll be stuck that way?”

Shayne chortles, “I’m just curious how you feel about this.”

“Clearly you already have a theory.”

“I do, based purely on the last eleven months of you pining over this girl.”

“I am incapable of pining.”

Shayne wheezes, “Yeah, sure. What do you call bringing up (Y/N) whenever possible, talking through ways to introduce yourself to her, workshopping conversations with me to get to know her…”

“All of those things were in confidence.”

“And all blatant examples of pining over a woman you’ve grown attached to!”

Spencer licks his lips, watching you being dragged by Angela towards the pods of employee desks. “I don’t… I can’t do anything about it now.”

“I’ve never seen you like this, man,” Shayne chortles. “It’s kind of throwing me off right now. You don’t talk about girls much.”

“The dating apps have been seriously lacking the last year.”

“Because you’ve been talking up some chick at the gas station,” Shayne laughs again. “I have to commend you for playing the long game.”

Spencer shakes his head, “I have to be fine with being just friends.”

But that didn’t mean he couldn’t try to be your best friend.

#spencer agnew x reader #spencer agnew fanfiction #spencer agnew smosh #spencer agnew #spencer agnew imagine #smosh games #smosh fandom #smosh au #smosh x reader #smosh pit #smosh #okayjhannah #fandomfantasia

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skiesuconn · 2 months ago

Text

Lost in Argentina | Chapter 2

From Tangled Limbs to Tangled Plans Pairing: Paige Buecker | Azzi Fudd WC: 20K

Synopsis: The journey’s just beginning, and Paige? Well, she’s always the first one up, ready to kickstart the day with a good deed. The team’s energy is buzzing as the morning sun warms the air, teasing Azzi and Paige relentlessly about last night’s little... situation.

The day’s rolling on, and it’s like a rom-com script come to life. Endless laughter, spontaneous kisses, and all the moments that make you go, yeah, this is the stuff dreams are made of. It’s the kind of love you only find when you’re somewhere like Argentina—where everything feels a little more alive, a little more possible.

By the end of it all? It's the perfect note to close the day. It’s safe to say, this whole week? Pure, uninterrupted fun. With some twists. Frankie's note: I had so much fun writing this, especially the beach scenes with the team and all their ridiculous jokes—I was literally laughing my ass off while thinking about it. I really enjoyed putting this together, and thanks so much for all the support! Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Let me know what you think, mwah

Paige woke to the soft glow of morning slipping through the too-thin curtains, the air still cool, the world outside just starting to stir. For a moment, she stayed in that hazy space between sleep and waking, eyes half-lidded, brain sluggish. Then she felt it—warmth.

Azzi.

Paige blinked fully awake, heart giving a small, stupid flutter as she registered the way they were tangled together. Limbs overlapping, Azzi’s arm draped across Paige’s waist, her face tucked into the curve of Paige’s shoulder, her breathing slow and steady. It was the kind of mess that only happened after nights spent too close, when even an inch of space between them felt like too much.

Not that Paige was complaining.

But also—her arm was asleep. Completely numb. And, yeah, she really had to pee.

Carefully, like she was defusing a bomb, Paige started extracting herself. She moved in slow increments, biting her lip, hyper-aware of every tiny shift in Azzi’s breathing. When she finally managed to slip free, she hesitated, glancing back down at Azzi, who was still fast asleep, soft curls spilling over the pillow.

Paige reached for the sheets, tucking them around her with the kind of gentle care she’d never admit to out loud. Just enough to keep her warm, but not too tight. Like a protective little cocoon.

Azzi sighed in her sleep, mumbling something incoherent. Paige froze, but she didn’t wake. Angel behavior.

She stood there for a second, just looking.

Azzi’s face was completely relaxed, all the tension she carried during the day nowhere to be found. She looked peaceful. Beautiful. Paige felt something in her chest tighten, a kind of quiet, overwhelming fondness settling into her bones.

God. She was so screwed.

With a quiet sigh, Paige slipped out of the room, padding barefoot through the hallway and out into the early morning air.

The streets of Argentina were calm, bathed in that soft golden light that made everything look a little dreamlike. A gentle breeze carried the faint strumming of a guitar from somewhere in the distance. The city was waking up, stretching, yawning.

Paige knew exactly where she was going.

She made her way down the street, weaving through a few early risers, until she spotted the little flower stand she’d seen the other day. It was tucked beneath a striped awning, small but overflowing with color. Bouquets of roses, sunflowers, daisies—each one wrapped in crisp brown paper, waiting to be chosen.

The woman behind the stand had warm eyes and the kind of energy that immediately put Paige at ease.

She scanned the flowers like she was making the most important decision of her life. Then she saw them—pink and white lilies, delicate and soft, with little sprigs of baby’s breath nestled between the petals. They just felt like Azzi.

Paige pointed at them and, with all the confidence of someone who was absolutely winging it, said, “Para mi novia.”

The woman’s eyes twinkled. She didn’t say anything, just started wrapping the bouquet with practiced grace, her hands careful and precise.

“Es hermoso,” she said warmly as she handed them over.

Paige hesitated, then pulled out a tip and passed it to her. The woman’s face lit up, and before Paige could fully register what was happening, she was being pulled into a brief but incredibly heartfelt hug.

Okay. Unexpected. But kind of… really nice. ━

By the time Paige made it back to bed, it was 8:30, and Azzi was still fully dead to the world. Face smushed against the pillow, one arm flopped out dramatically like she’d fought off some demons in her sleep, a soft little snore escaping her every few seconds.

Paige bit back a smile. No, actually, screw that—she grinned like an idiot.

There was something about Azzi when she was asleep. She looked so unguarded, so effortlessly soft in a way she rarely let herself be when she was awake. Paige swore it was one of her favorite things in the world—right up there with buzzer-beaters, ice cream straight from the carton, and absolutely obliterating Azzi in 2K (which only happened like… twice, but that’s beside the point).

Paige didn’t waste another second. She slipped under the covers, slow and careful, until she was right there—right next to her, close enough to feel the warmth radiating from Azzi’s body. And like clockwork, Azzi shifted in her sleep, her subconscious apparently recognizing Paige like muscle memory.

Her hand found Paige’s waist like it belonged there. She burrowed in without hesitation, face pressing into Paige’s collarbone, a sleepy little sigh leaving her lips as she melted into the warmth she always, always sought out.

Yeah. Paige was done for.

Her arms moved on their own, wrapping around Azzi’s body, holding her close, heart swelling like some dumb rom-com protagonist. She let her fingers wander, tracing slow, featherlight circles into Azzi’s back before moving up, up, up into her hair—curling and uncurling soft strands between her fingers.

God, she loved Azzi’s hair. She loved the way it felt, the way it framed her face, the way Azzi got all self-conscious about it even though it was easily the most beautiful thing ever.

Paige leaned in, pressing the lightest kiss to the top of Azzi’s head. Then, because she was feeling brave (and also because no one could call her out for it when Azzi was still asleep), she kissed the spot just beneath her ear, where her skin was warm and impossibly soft.

Azzi made a noise. A barely-there, sleep-heavy mumble that sounded a lot like Paige’s name.

Paige froze. Then smiled. Then did it again.

It was addicting, okay? The way Azzi melted into her touch, the way she clung just a little tighter, the way Paige could literally feel the trust between them in every tiny movement.

She tightened her grip, one last squeeze, one last gentle stroke of her fingers through Azzi’s hair. The room was still, quiet in that way mornings always were before the world fully woke up. Paige felt her own eyelids drooping, the comfort of Azzi’s warmth pulling her under like a weighted blanket straight from heaven.

But before she fully gave in, she reached blindly for her phone on the nightstand, squinting against the brightness as she set an alarm for 9:10. Enough time to sleep a little longer. Enough time to wake up slow, to have breakfast together, to just… be.

She let the phone slip from her fingers, exhaling a content sigh as she nuzzled closer. ━

BEEP. BEEP. BEEP.

Paige groaned. Stupid alarm. Stupid responsibility. Stupid morning.

She blindly reached over, smacking at her phone until the beeping finally stopped. The screen glowed in the dim light, the time glaring back at her—9:10 AM—and right beneath it, an unread message.

Ice: “dude get up or i’m gonna eat yo breakfast, the plates too”

Paige snorted, thumbs already moving as she fired back.

Paige: “we’re going down soon, thanks 🙄”

She tossed her phone back onto the nightstand and turned her attention to something infinitely more important—Azzi.

Still dead to the world. Still tucked into her side, her face smushed against Paige’s shoulder in a way that should not be this cute.

Paige let herself look for a second. Just one. Because how could she not? Azzi’s face was soft with sleep, her lips slightly parted, her dimples peeking through even in unconsciousness. It was unfair. No one should look that good half-asleep.

Paige smiled, shifting just enough to press the lightest, softest kiss to Azzi’s nose—just a quick thing, careful not to startle her. Then, because she was technically a responsible adult (debatable), she gave Azzi a tiny nudge.

“Babe,” she murmured, voice still thick with sleep. “C’mon, we gotta get up.”

Azzi groaned dramatically, tightening her grip around Paige’s waist like she could physically stop time. “Nooo, baby,” she whined, voice muffled against Paige’s skin. “Five more minutes.”

Paige sighed. A helpless, head-over-heels, what-am-I-gonna-do-with-you kind of sigh.

Because yeah, sure, they technically had to get up. But also? She could stay like this forever. The way Azzi felt against her, warm and impossibly soft, the way their skin pressed together, the way it was just them—close, connected, vulnerable in a way that made Paige’s heartache in the best possible way.

She tightened her hold just a little, her fingers tracing slow, absentminded shapes against Azzi’s back. “You’re making this really hard,” she muttered.

Azzi, still very much not awake, just hummed, snuggling even closer.

Paige groaned again—because seriously—but at the same time, she was grinning like an idiot

“Azzi, for real, we gotta move, or Ice is gonna inhale our breakfast.”

Paige sat up, already swinging her legs off the bed, but before she could even think about escaping, a hand shot out, yanking her right back down. She barely had a second to react before Azzi’s lips were on hers.

A dirty move. Unfair play.

Paige melted into it for a second—because, duh—but then she pulled back just enough to mumble, “Morning breath, Az. That toothpaste does not do you good.”

Azzi smirked, completely unbothered. “Don’t care. I love you.”

Paige sighed dramatically, pressing a quick kiss to Azzi’s cheek. “I love you more, baby.”

“Then stay.” Azzi’s arms looped around her waist, making zero effort to let her go.

Paige wanted to. God, she wanted to. But also? Food.

“Big head,” she said, trying to pry herself free. “We really have to get down for breakfast.”

Azzi cracked one eye open, her smirk turning downright dangerous. “There’s literally my breakfast in front of me.”

Paige choked. Visibly malfunctioned.

“Azzi,” she groaned, face already burning.

Azzi just grinned. So pleased with herself.

Paige huffed, running a hand down her face before leaning down to kiss Azzi’s forehead. “Baby, I know you’re ovulating, but we really have to get down there.”

Azzi made a small sound—half a nod, half a whiny moan—before finally, finally shifting under the covers.

That’s when Paige clocked it.

“Wait—are you naked under there?”

Azzi just grinned, stretching lazily.

Jesus Christ.

Paige exhaled through her nose, forcing herself to focus. Be strong, Paige. She grabbed Azzi’s bra from the chair and held it out. “C’mon, babe, let’s get you dressed.”

Azzi smirked, eyes way too mischievous. “Put it on me?”

Paige swallowed. Hard. “Yeah. Yeah, okay.”

She moved slowly, soft, delicate, intentional. Slid the straps up Azzi’s arms, clasped the back with practiced ease. Her fingers lingered for a second, then she pressed a slow, lazy kiss to Azzi’s bare shoulder.

Azzi actually shivered.

Paige smirked. Good to know she wasn’t the only one suffering.

Shaking her head, Paige pulled herself together and threw on a grey USA Basketball T-shirt and a pair of basketball shorts. Her usual. She slipped on some cream slides, ran a hand through her messy bun, and called it a day. ━

Azzi stepped out of the bathroom, sliding into a beige, seashell-colored cover-up that clung to her curves in a way that made Paige lose her train of thought for a solid second. The material was just thin enough to be barely there, a whisper of fabric that made her skin glow in the soft light of the room. It was perfect for the warm Argentine weather, that sweet in-between stage where it’s hot enough for the beach, but still needing something light to wear. Her untamed curls framed her face effortlessly, and honestly, Paige swore she might actually throw herself off the balcony if she didn’t contain herself.

She bit down hard on her knuckles, desperately trying to stop herself from well, whistling, but there was no stopping the way her heart did a little flip every time Azzi moved. Every. Single. Time.

Azzi turned around, and Paige nearly went dizzy. The way Azzi’s back muscles shifted beneath the fabric, the subtle flex of her shoulders—it did something to Paige that she couldn’t even explain.

Paige smirked, fighting the urge to let out a wolf-whistle. “You look... decent, I guess,” she said casually, her voice as nonchalant as she could manage. But inside? She was doing backflips. Cartwheels (She can't do those, actually)

Azzi raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. “Decent?”

“Yeah,” Paige said, trying to keep her cool, even though she was about five seconds away from fainting. “I mean, you look... fine. Nothing special.”

Azzi leaned in, brushing a hand against Paige’s jaw. “You sure about that?”

Paige’s eyes drifted down to Azzi’s curves, and she grinned. “No, I’m not. If any man checks you out, I swear, I’m carrying you home myself.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but pressed a soft kiss to Paige’s lips, smirking as she pulled back. “Okay, big shot. Good luck with that.”

Paige grinned, completely wrapped up in the way Azzi moved. “I’m serious, babe. You’re making every guy within a mile radius regret not bringing sunglasses.”

Azzi laughed, tossing her hair back like she was born to be on a beach—and Paige? Well, she was ready to lose it.

Azzi slipped on some white slides, simple but perfect, and Paige could barely hold it together. “Wait, before we go,” Paige said, her voice all playful, “close your eyes.”

Azzi frowned but did it anyway, clearly suspicious. “Paige, please don’t tell me you got us a capybara.”

Paige’s eyes twinkled. “Open.”

Azzi opened her eyes slowly, expecting maybe some weird, Paige-style surprise—a capybara or whatever. But what she saw in front of her completely took her breath away. A bouquet of flowers—pink lilies and white lilies, soft and delicate but bold in their beauty. Azzi’s name practically screamed from the petals, but in the most subtle, perfect way.

Azzi’s breath caught, and she reached out, gently caressing the flowers. “Oh my God.” Her eyes softened as she examined them, running her fingers along the soft petals like she couldn’t quite believe they were real.

Paige stood there, a little nervous, but mostly excited. “So, do you like it?”

Azzi turned to her, a small smile spreading across her face. “Are you serious? Of course I like it. You just… you just know what I like.”

Paige smiled, feeling a little shy. “Well... I might’ve gotten a little lucky.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, the sarcasm dripping from her voice. “Lucky? With that advanced vocabulary of yours?”

Paige grinned. “Let’s just say I keep my streak on Duolingo strong.”

Azzi chuckled, giving her a playful shove. “You’re getting it.”

Paige’s face lit up, heart racing at the way Azzi looked at her. “I’m trying, okay? I’m trying real hard.”

Azzi gave her one last look at the bouquet before pulling Paige into a soft kiss. “I love you. And I love this.”

“Glad you do,” Paige murmured against her lips. “You deserve it.”

And for a moment, there was nothing but Azzi, the bouquet, and the connection between them that was starting to feel like something more than just a day at the beach. A lot more.

━ The elevator doors slid open with a soft ding, and the scent hit them instantly—freshly brewed coffee, warm pastries, and that perfect morning air that promised the start of something good. Paige’s eyes fluttered, taking in the smell, a mix of vanilla and that rich coffee aroma that made her want to dive face-first into a croissant. Azzi beside her inhaled deeply, her lips curving into a soft smile as the warmth of the space wrapped around them.

Paige caught the movement of the long buffet bar in the distance, stacked high with an assortment of fresh fruits—oranges, berries, and sliced melon—along with golden, flaky croissants that practically screamed her name. The buffet was lined with neatly arranged eggs, bacon, sausages, and all sorts of meats, their warm aroma mixing with the pastries in the air. Everything was carefully laid out beneath soft lighting, giving it all a slightly dreamlike quality, like they were stepping into a gourmet dream.

Paige spotted Ice, Nika, and Lili right away, their familiar faces standing out amidst the breakfast crowd, and without missing a beat, she nudged Azzi toward the table where they were sitting. The morning buzz of laughter, clinking silverware, and the hum of quiet conversations filled the air around them, but Paige's focus was squarely on the crew waiting for them. She wasn’t great at multitasking, so she let her instincts guide her as they weaved through the crowd.

Azzi, glancing over at the menu with a mild sense of unease, noticed that some dishes had pictures for easy navigation—thank God for that, considering Paige’s Spanish wasn’t exactly top-notch. Paige, with the confidence of someone who pretended to know what she was doing, pointed to a picture of eggs and chorizo with a proud grin plastered on her face. “I’ll have… this one.”

She looked so proud, but it was clear by the way she paused and squinted at the photo that she was just guessing at what the dish was. Azzi, trying her best not to burst out laughing, shot Paige an amused look but decided to get her own order in. She tapped the picture of a vegetarian dish, clearly trying to dodge any further need for butchering Spanish. "I’ll have this," she said casually, trying to keep her voice steady. "Looks light."

Lili, who had clearly come to the same conclusion, added with a smile, "I’ll have the same. Vegetarian for me." She was always so simple and to the point, making Paige grin.

Paige gave a big thumbs up to Lili, her grin widening. “Good choice. Looks like we’re all on the ‘I don’t know what the hell I’m ordering’ train today.”

Azzi shot her a look, but there was no denying the soft chuckle that escaped her. It was a familiar dynamic, this easy back-and-forth, and Paige wouldn’t have it any other way.

When they reached the table, Paige immediately pulled out Azzi’s chair with a dramatic flourish. “After you,” she said with a grin, making sure to emphasize the queen part. It earned an exaggerated eye roll from Azzi, but the way Azzi’s lips curved into a soft smile made it clear that she didn’t mind the attention.

"Here we go," Nika teased from across the table, her eyes practically twinkling with mischief. "The official ‘Paige, stop simping’ moment of the day."

Paige shot her a playful glare, but it was all in good fun. She quickly dabbed her teammates up, giving them a quick fist bump before sitting down. “You know you love it,” Paige said smoothly, throwing Nika a wink that made the whole table laugh.

"I’ve got a front-row seat to all of this," Nika smirked, leaning back in her seat like she was watching a show. "Who’s gonna say it first?"

"Say what first?" Azzi asked, eyes narrowing as she caught on to the teasing game. She was already onto them, but Paige could tell she was curious.

"Y’all heard about the thin walls, right?" Ice, ever the instigator, leaned forward with that shit-eating grin of hers, clearly itching to stir the pot.

Paige froze mid-reach for her coffee, her hand hovering awkwardly in the air. The words hit her like a brick wall, and her eyes widened in realization. She nearly choked on her sip, coughing and sputtering as she tried to clear her throat. "I do not know what you’re talking about," she managed to force out, sounding a little too defensive.

Azzi, noticing Paige’s sudden fluster, leaned closer, placing her hand under the table. Her finger brushed softly against Paige’s, offering a quiet, unspoken reassurance. The touch was comforting, grounding. Azzi couldn’t help but laugh quietly at Paige’s reaction, the soft sound making Paige’s ears go hot.

Ice leaned back in her chair, taking a smug sip of her own coffee. "Well, you know, the hotel staff was making rounds last night, around midnight or so, checking who was making all that noise on the fourth floor."

The tension was thick, but Paige—with her typically playful deflection—shot Ice a look that could only be described as a “seriously?” kind of glare. The others at the table chuckled, but Paige only sighed dramatically. "Seriously?" She shot a glance at Azzi, who was now trying not to laugh too hard at the situation, clearly playing along with the whole thing. Paige wanted to die a little, but her heart thudded in her chest as she tried to pretend she was completely fine.

"Let’s just say," Ice continued, practically twinkling with mischief, "I’m pretty sure they know exactly what room you’re in."

"Don’t even start," Paige grumbled, but deep down, she was laughing with Azzi too, though she would never admit it.

Paige and Azzi shot each other a look, their faces turning the brightest shade of red as the memory came rushing back to them. They both knew exactly what Ice was referring to—those very same noises that, despite their best efforts, couldn’t be erased from their minds. Paige quickly cleared her throat, her hand reaching for her water as a weak attempt to mask the embarrassment burning in her cheeks. "I’m pretty sure it was just… a loud TV, or something," she stammered, her words a little too quick. "You know, the tele novela here is real dramatic," Paige added.

Nika, always quick to back her up, jumped in with unwavering confidence, "Yeah! It's like, real intense here. The drama’s on another level." She raised her coffee cup with mock seriousness, pretending to be lost in thought as if she was an expert on Latin American soap operas. "So much yelling, so much—uh, passion," Nika continued, her eyes flicking between Paige and Azzi with a mischievous grin.

Lili, who had been quietly eating her granola, barely lifting her eyes from her bowl, added in the most deadpan tone possible, "I told them someone was doing their Duolingo lesson at midnight. Honestly, I think I was right."

Azzi grinned at Lili, her eyes lighting up with amusement. "You were right," she said, nodding enthusiastically. "The ‘Duolingo streak’ doesn’t stop just because it's midnight." She leaned toward Paige with a mischievous glint in her eye, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. "I’ve seen Paige get really dedicated to that streak," she added, her voice low but teasing.

Paige couldn’t help but chuckle, shaking her head in mock exasperation. "I do not need you two exposing me like that," she said with a dramatic sigh, nudging Azzi under the table with her foot.

Ice, already having way too much fun at Paige’s expense, leaned back in her chair with a satisfied grin. "Oh no," she chimed in, her tone full of playful teasing, "We all know you’re deep into it, Paige. If anyone’s getting interrupted by that owl at 2 AM, it’s you."

Paige groaned, pretending to be offended. "I swear, that owl’s more of a nightmare than any of you."

"Don’t worry, Paige," Azzi whispered with a smirk, squeezing her hand under the table. "You’re still the best at Duolingo, even if you wake up the entire hotel."

The group laughed, the teasing and jokes flowing naturally. The camaraderie between them was strong, and despite the embarrassment, Paige was thankful for the easy atmosphere and the way Azzi always had her back, even in the most awkward moments.

As they neared the end of their breakfast, the laughter and teasing had subsided a little, but the energy was still there. Ice was scrolling through her phone, flipping between messages, then looked up with a wide grin. "Alright, so the coach said we’ve got some freedom today. We can go explore the city, check out the little forest a few miles from here—just, y'know, don't drown or anything," she said, her voice laced with that signature dry humor.

The table erupted with laughter, everyone knowing Ice wasn’t exactly the most serious person in the world, but they loved her for it.

Paige grinned, "I’ll do my best not to drown. I mean, I’ve been known to fall into puddles…"

Azzi, half-joking, added, "But can we drown in a sea of mimosas?"

Nika, already glancing at the menu for dessert options, jumped in. "Wait, I heard the spa here has these amazing hot steam massages," she said with a glint in her eye. "And they don’t charge for it. Like, free. Zero dollars."

Azzi’s cover-up, barely covering anything, clung to her body, and Paige couldn’t help but notice the way her panties peeked out just slightly. The way the bra strap was just visible, sitting perfectly under the fabric. And her skin—wow. That milk chocolate tone that looked like it was kissed by the sun, glowing even in the hotel light. Paige found herself zoning out, her fingers lightly grazing Azzi’s leg beneath the table, just to feel the softness of her skin.

Azzi let out a soft moan, so low it was almost imperceptible, and Paige’s heart skipped a beat. The table went eerily quiet for a second, everyone’s attention shifting from the menu to the couple. Nika, ever the observant one, coughed loudly. "Oh my God, Paige," she said with a smirk, her eyes widening dramatically, giving Paige a long look, like she was about to bust a gut laughing.

Paige immediately pulled her hand away from Azzi’s thigh, her face flaming with embarrassment. "Shit," she muttered under her breath, trying to regain her composure.

Azzi, barely keeping it together, whispered into Paige’s ear, her breath warm against her skin, "You're such a freak."

Paige chuckled, trying to act all innocent but failing miserably. "I swear, I was just trying to be sweet," she teased in a low voice, though the heat in her face was hard to hide.

Lili, who had been minding her own business and quietly sipping her orange juice, piped up, "Y’all are on another level. We really need to get some boundaries, like a public display of affection limit or something." She raised an eyebrow. "It’s 9 AM."

Paige laughed, shaking her head. "You’re right, Li, you’re right. We’ll tone it down."

Azzi, still holding Paige’s hand under the table, leaned in and murmured, "Just wait until we’re at the beach later."

Paige’s eyebrows shot up at the subtle promise in Azzi’s voice. "Oh, trust me, I’m counting down the minutes."

"Alright, alright," Ice cut in with a grin, clearly enjoying the banter. "Focus, people. We’re getting a beach day later, and no one’s gonna care about PDA when you’re getting sand in places you didn’t think sand could go."

"True," Nika chimed in with a laugh. "The beach has a way of, uh, making everything feel... extra public."

They all broke into laughter, and the tension between Paige and Azzi melted into playful teasing, making the moment feel easy and carefree. Paige couldn’t help but smile, knowing that no matter what, every single second with Azzi felt like it was filled with a perfect kind of chaos—and she wouldn’t trade it for the world.

━ As the group was finishing up their breakfast, the noise around the table started to fade into a cozy, low hum. Paige and Nika were deep in a heated debate about pancakes, with Nika passionately arguing that chocolate chip was so overrated, and Paige, of course, being the most dramatic about defending them. "You can’t just throw some plain pancake on a plate and call it a day. It's not 2008!" Paige exclaimed, laughing. Nika rolled her eyes, “Says the person who thinks extra butter makes it ‘art,’” she shot back with a smirk.

In the middle of this pancake chaos, Caroline, who'd been chilling on the opposite side of the table, stood up and casually strolled over to Azzi, who was half-slouched on Paige's shoulder, looking like the chillest human ever. Azzi noticed her coming and gave a warm, but curious smile. "Hey, what’s up?" she asked, her voice a mix of sweetness and intrigue.

Caroline’s eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned in a little closer, practically whispering like she was about to drop the spiciest gossip. "So, uh... I think I owe you something," she started, letting the words hang in the air before she added with a grin, "Ear plugs."

Azzi blinked, momentarily confused. "Ear plugs?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow like she was missing the punchline.

Caroline’s grin got wider, full of that signature drama she was known for. "Yup. From last night." She leaned in a little closer, her voice dropping into a whisper. “I got your back, girl.”

Azzi’s confusion turned into a sudden burst of laughter. "Oh. That kind of ear plugs," she said, her smirk widening as she realized what Caroline meant. Her voice dropped into a teasing tone. "You’re terrible, but I see how it is."

Caroline, dramatically pretending to be serious, nodded as if the ear plugs were a matter of national security. "Exactly. Thought I’d let you know, so you can make good use of them today." Her voice had that playful lilt, like she was just waiting for Azzi to bite on the joke.

Azzi couldn’t help but laugh, her cheeks a little pink now, but not bothered. She shot Caroline a side-eye. "You're the worst," she said, shaking her head, but there was a clear fondness in her eyes.

Caroline shrugged with exaggerated innocence, like she was the queen of comedy. "What can I say? I’m basically a stand-up comedian at this point," she said, throwing a playful wink before tossing a quick wave toward Paige and Nika, who were still arguing over pancakes like it was the most important decision of their lives.

"Tell Paige to keep it down, alright?" Caroline said with a grin, before strolling away to rejoin the others.

Azzi, still laughing, turned to Paige, who was in the middle of cracking up at something Nika just said. Azzi tapped her shoulder softly, and when Paige looked at her, Azzi smirked. "Babe," she said, the words dripping with playful sarcasm, "Caroline says I gotta keep you down a notch."

Paige shot her a confused look, eyes wide for a second before bursting into laughter. "What? Keep me down? I'm not that loud." She was practically shouting it in that classic Paige way, but Azzi already knew she was totally aware of what the issue was—Paige’s voice could easily be heard over a stadium crowd.

Azzi chuckled and shoved her lightly, the playful energy between them never fading. "Yeah, well, apparently, we’re ‘the loud ones’ this morning." She motioned around the breakfast hall, where the rest of the teammates were all pretending not to notice, but were absolutely soaking in the drama.

Paige leaned back in her chair, making a big show of scanning the room like it was some deep mystery. "Okay, okay," she said in an exaggerated whisper, but loud enough for everyone to hear, "Note to self: don’t let us be too loud. We don’t wanna disturb Caroline’s delicate sensibilities."

Azzi couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the sarcasm in Paige’s voice. "Exactly. And you’re lucky we’re not getting a noise complaint," she said, shaking her head but clearly loving the banter.

As they all started heading out of the breakfast room, Caroline was already waving them off from a distance. Azzi leaned in close to Paige, her voice dropping low. "Do you think she actually likes you?" she whispered with a smirk.

Paige turned to Azzi, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Oh, for sure. I mean, who wouldn’t? I’m, like, the life of the party." She threw her arms out like she was accepting an imaginary award.

Azzi rolled her eyes, giving her that you're insufferable look. "Yeah, you’re a real handful, you know that?"

Paige just winked, unfazed. "But you love it." ━

As they stepped into their hotel room, Azzi collapsed onto the bed like a sack of potatoes, her eyes half-lidded and giving major I just woke up energy. She fumbled for her phone, brain still foggy from the early morning rush, and typed out a quick message to her parents: "Hey, we’re all up! Probably gonna be outside all day, just exploring. I’ll hit you up when we get back!" After hitting send, she added a selfie of herself sprawled out on the bed, rocking the I’m half-dead but still cute vibe. Her tired smile was soft against the warm morning light, and it had just enough chill to make it look like this is me in my element, taking naps and sending cute pics.

Paige, who’d been across the room chugging water like she was dehydrated from a marathon, spotted the pic and immediately jumped on the bed with an exaggerated gasp. "Wait, hold up. You’re just gonna send a pic without me in it?" she teased, all dramatic and over the top, totally playing the part of someone offended for real—but her voice was all play, no malice. Before Azzi could even process, Paige pulled her into a kiss, her lips lingering for a hot second on Azzi's cheek. Then she pulled back, snapping a pic like a paparazzi, capturing the moment with a mischievous grin.

Azzi was caught off guard, her phone almost slipping from her hand as she burst into laughter. "You’re such an attention hog," she giggled, swatting at Paige in that playful, not-really-pushing-her-away way, clearly loving every second of the drama.

Paige, grinning like she just pulled off a major heist, held up the picture she just took. "Perfection," she said smugly, giving it the thumbs-up as if she’d just scored the winning shot in a game. "Gotta send that to your fam now."

Azzi, still cracking up, snatched her phone back and—without missing a beat—sent the goofy photo straight into her family’s group chat with the message: “I have to wake up to this girl everyday”

Her family had long gotten used to the duo’s antics. Katie and Tim were as close to Paige as Azzi was, so they were all on the same wavelength of “yep, this is just another day with these two.” Azzi had learned a long time ago to just roll with it whenever Paige made her the star of one of her goofy stunts.

Meanwhile, Paige was already texting her own crew. "Hope you guys are good!" she messaged her parents, Amy and Bob, before sending them the pic of Azzi mid-laugh, her smile so bright it could probably outshine the sun. She knew her parents would be grinning at the photo the same way Paige was. Then, Paige shot off a text to Drew: "Hope you slept good, bro. I’ll call you later when I get a sec."

Azzi, eyes twinkling with affection, watched her. "You and your family are seriously something else," she teased softly. "Always turning everything into a photo shoot."

Paige kicked back on the bed, lifting her legs and draping them lazily over Azzi’s lap. "Hey," she shot back, half-serious but with a wink, "I’m just spreading the love, babe. We're lucky to have this. You know that, right?" She ran her hand through her hair, casually glancing at Azzi like they were the only two people in the world. "Finding your person at this age? That doesn’t happen for everyone."

Azzi’s expression softened, a quiet moment passing between them. She reached for Paige’s hand, fingers intertwining as she leaned her head against Paige’s shoulder. "Yeah," Azzi agreed, her voice warm and sincere. "We’re lucky."

Paige smiled, her lips pressing against the top of Azzi’s head for a quick kiss. "Real lucky."

Azzi pulled back just a little, her smirk playful. "Lucky and totally ridiculous," she added, her eyes sparkling with affection.

"Hey," Paige chuckled, nudging Azzi with her shoulder, "you’re ridiculous too."

Azzi shot her a playful look, standing up and pulling Paige by the hand. "Let’s make sure we get some actual pictures today," she teased, her smile teasing in that I see right through you way.

Paige groaned in mock exasperation but was still grinning like she won the lottery. "Fine, fine," she said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. "No more weird selfies... for now."

━ Azzi flopped onto her back with a satisfied sigh, stretching her arms out like a cat in the sunlight. The golden morning glow spilled across the room, hitting just right, making everything feel a little too perfect. The city view through the window was borderline cinematic, but she was too comfortable to appreciate it properly.

Paige, leaning casually against the window frame, smirked. “Az, that balcony’s calling my name.” Her tone was dripping with mischief. “Plenty of time, no rush…”

Azzi groaned, already knowing where this was going. She cracked one eye open and shot Paige a look. “You are not about to fuck me in front of half the city, Paige. Some things deserve a little mystery, yeah?”

Paige raised an eyebrow, like she was actually considering it. “Temptation’s a funny thing,” she mused, before disappearing into the bathroom.

Azzi exhaled a laugh, shaking her head. Absolute menace.

When Paige reappeared, towel in hand, she froze for a second.

Azzi was sprawled out on the bed, sunlight kissing her skin, hair messy in a way that wasn’t on purpose but still looked like a damn magazine cover. She had that sleepy, relaxed expression—the kind that Paige swore was reserved just for her. Like she was the only person in the world who got to see Azzi like this.

Paige didn’t even think before moving. She climbed onto the bed and curled up against Azzi’s side, resting her head on her chest like it was second nature. Azzi hummed, shifting just enough to pull her in closer, their faces now inches apart. Close enough for Paige to feel the soft warmth of Azzi’s breath against her lips.

“Hey, pretty girl,” Paige murmured, voice low, affectionate.

Azzi’s lips twitched into a smile, her eyes shining with something quiet, something that always made Paige’s heart feel too big for her chest. “Hey, you,” she whispered back, like it was a secret just for them.

They just… looked at each other for a second. No rush, no need to fill the silence. Azzi’s gaze was steady, deep, like she saw right through Paige—like she always did. Paige could get lost in those eyes, no problem. She kinda already was.

And then, without another thought, Azzi leaned in, closing the space between them. The kiss was soft, slow—one of those kisses that made time irrelevant. The kind that didn’t need words because everything was already there. Paige melted into it, into her, into the way Azzi’s arms tightened around her like she wasn’t letting go anytime soon.

Azzi pulled her even closer, until their foreheads touched, their breaths tangled up together. The world outside didn’t exist—just them, just this.

Paige smiled against Azzi’s skin. “I love you, you know that, right?”

Azzi let out a small, contented laugh, her fingers tracing lazy circles on Paige’s back. “I think I might have a pretty solid guess,” she teased, voice filled with that warmth that Paige would bottle up if she could.

Paige brushed a loose curl from Azzi’s face, her touch lingering. “You’re everything to me, Azzi.”

Azzi’s lips curled into a knowing, genuine smile. “You’re everything to me too, dummy.”

“Hey,” she murmured, eyes flicking between Azzi’s lips and the teasing glint in her eyes. “You wanna go to the park? I heard there’s a lake nearby.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, shifting just enough to put a little space between them—not that it lasted. “You know coach specifically told us not to drown,�� she quipped, but there was a spark of excitement in her voice. She knew exactly what Paige was like when she got a random idea in her head.

Paige smirked and leaned in again, her breath warm against Azzi’s ear. “You have me, Azzi,” she whispered, voice dipped in something deep and effortless. “You’re never gonna drown with me.”

Azzi scoffed, shaking her head with the kind of fondness that only Paige could pull out of her. Still, she pressed a quick kiss to Paige’s nose, barely suppressing her smile. “You’re such a sap.”

“I’m your sap,” Paige shot back, grinning like she’d just won something.

Azzi just laughed, rolling her eyes as she sat up. Paige stretched as she got off the bed, arms reaching high over her head, her shirt riding up just enough for Azzi to catch a glimpse of her boxers peeking out from her shorts.

Oh.

Yeah, okay. That was unfair.

Azzi bit the inside of her cheek, her gaze lingering maybe a second too long before Paige—blissfully unaware—offered her a hand.

“Come on,” Paige said, tugging Azzi up without waiting for a response. “The lake’s waiting, and I’m pretty sure it’s not gonna wait forever.”

Azzi let herself be pulled to her feet, shaking her head with a smirk. “Lead the way, Prince.”

Paige’s grin widened as she slung their bags over her shoulder, her movements effortless, a little cocky, like she was feeling herself just a bit too much. Azzi didn’t bother calling her out on it—she’d never admit that she liked it.

They double-checked their stuff before heading out, Paige slipping both of their phones into her pocket with the hotel keycard. As they stepped into the elevator, Paige leaned against the wall, all relaxed limbs and easy confidence. She caught Azzi staring and shot her a wink.

“Alright, let’s get lost in some summer Argentine streets,” she said as the doors opened, voice full of that endless, restless energy that made Azzi fall for her in the first place.

Azzi grinned, bumping her shoulder as they walked out. “You do know how to use a map, right?”

Paige gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. “Wow. Wow. You think I’d get us lost?”

Azzi gave her a look.

Paige shrugged. “Okay, fair. But, like… what’s the worst that could happen?”

Azzi sighed, but she was laughing. “I guess we’ll find out.” ━

They stepped outside, sunlight hitting them immediately, warm and golden. The streets buzzed with life—painted buildings in every shade imaginable, murals spilling across walls like stories in motion, vendors calling out their best deals, music drifting from open windows. It was loud and colorful and alive.

Paige let out a low whistle. “Damn,” she said, taking it all in. “I swear, I could live here.”

Azzi hummed, watching as Paige’s eyes bounced from one thing to another, like she was trying to soak up everything at once. With a small smile, she leaned her head against Paige’s shoulder as they walked. “I know what you mean. It’s like this place just pulls you in.”

Paige squeezed her hand, that same easy, confident energy settling between them.

They walked on, fingers loosely intertwined, laughter blending into the hum of the city, knowing that no matter where they went, this—the quiet moments, the teasing, the touches that lingered—was what really mattered. ━

As Paige and Azzi made their way into the park, the nature surrounding was nothing short of breathtaking. The area was straight-up unreal—towering trees, tangled marshes, and little lagoons scattered like something out of a Studio Ghibli film. The air was thick with the smell of damp earth, the sun filtering through the trees in golden streaks. Everything felt untouched, like they’d stumbled into some secret corner of the world.

“Okay, this place is giving national park energy,” Paige said, eyes scanning the scene in pure admiration. “Like, I’m waiting for a Lion King to pop out.”

Azzi smirked, squeezing Paige’s hand a little tighter. “Right? It’s kinda insane. Feels like we should be narrating this like a nature documentary.” She deepened her voice dramatically, “And here, we have two incredibly lost American tourists—”

“—with zero survival skills,” Paige finished, grinning. “But, like, we’re hot, so it balances out.”

Azzi laughed, nodding at a sign up ahead. “Okay, but real talk. What do you think that says?” The text was in Spanish, and neither of them was exactly fluent.

Paige squinted, pretending to analyze it. “Well… ‘lago’ sounds like lake. So, I vote we go that way.”

Azzi tilted her head, considering. “Lakes and wetlands? Sounds like a vibe.”

They followed the trail, the sound of their footsteps blending with rustling leaves and distant bird calls. The deeper they got, the more unreal it felt—wild greenery, bursts of colorful flowers, and the occasional rustle in the underbrush that made Paige whisper dramatically, “That’s gotta be a capybara.”

When they finally reached the lake, it was straight out of a dream. The water stretched wide and clear, shimmering under the afternoon sun. A small wooden bridge arched over one section, worn but sturdy, with wet footprints marking where someone had just walked across.

Azzi exhaled slowly, taking it all in. “This… is kinda perfect.”

Paige dropped her bag with a satisfied sigh. “Yeah. Lowkey jealous of the capybaras living their best lives out here.”

Azzi chuckled, but then winced slightly, reaching down to rub her knee. “Ugh. I think I pulled something earlier.”

Paige immediately turned to her, brows furrowing. “Wait—your knees? You good?”

“Yeah, I just need to sit for a sec.”

Paige smirked, stretching her arms out dramatically. “You could sit on me if you want.”

Azzi shot her a look. “You’re so extra.” But she still took Paige up on the offer, settling between her legs as Paige leaned back against a tree, wrapping her arms around Azzi’s waist. The warmth of Paige’s body pressed against her back, grounding her in a way she didn’t even realize she needed.

“This better?” Paige murmured, her hands moving to Azzi’s knee, massaging gently.

Azzi melted into the touch, closing her eyes. “Mmm. Yeah, much better.”

Paige grinned, placing a soft kiss against Azzi’s shoulder. “Good. ‘Cause I plan on spoiling you all day.”

Azzi hummed, tilting her head to glance at Paige. “You always do.”

“And I’m just getting started.” Paige’s voice dropped to that playful, intimate tone that always made Azzi’s stomach flip. She leaned in, her lips brushing against the curve of Azzi’s neck, sending warmth spiraling through her veins.

Azzi turned slightly, their eyes meeting, the air between them charged. “You really know how to make a girl feel special, huh?”

Paige grinned. “It’s my full-time job, actually.”

Azzi laughed softly, shaking her head before pressing her forehead against Paige’s. The world around them blurred, the distant sounds of the park fading into the background. It was just them—their breaths mingling, the steady rhythm of Paige’s heartbeat against Azzi’s back, the unspoken promise that wherever they went, whatever they did, moments like this would always feel like home.

━ Azzi slowly stirred from her nap, the soft rustle of the grass beneath her and the warmth of the afternoon sun making it hard to stay asleep. A light breeze skimmed over her skin, carrying the scent of wildflowers and lake water. She blinked a few times, adjusting to the golden light filtering through the leaves. The first thing she registered—before she even fully remembered where she was—was the feeling of Paige’s fingers lazily running through her curls.

Paige had a habit of touching her without even thinking about it, like it was second nature. Soft, absentminded, comforting. Azzi swore Paige didn’t even realize she did it half the time, but Azzi did. Every single time.

She shifted, rolling over just enough to face Paige, her limbs feeling pleasantly heavy from sleep. Paige was half-asleep too, her eyes barely open, a lazy grin stretching across her face.

Azzi smiled sleepily, voice still soft from the nap. “Good morning, cutie.”

Paige blinked at her, squinting slightly. “Is it morning already?”

Azzi laughed, her voice light and happy as she reached out and kissed Paige’s lips gently. “Yeah, it’s morning somewhere.”

Paige hummed, clearly not fully awake but still committed to flirting. “How was your nap?”

“The best nap so far,” Azzi murmured, stretching her arms above her head and letting the fresh air fill her lungs. “The air out here... it’s just different. I feel like I could sleep forever.”

“I agree,” Paige said softly, still playing with a curl, twirling it between her fingers. She looked at Azzi with that familiar, easy adoration in her eyes, like she was looking at her favorite view. “It’s like this place has its own rhythm. So peaceful.”

Azzi rested her head on Paige’s chest, her voice quiet but serious. “Can we stay like this forever? Just in our little world here?”

Paige’s heart melted at the thought. She ran her hand over Azzi’s back, her thumb lightly tracing the curves of her spine. “Yeah, I’d love that too. It’s okay that we only know like five words in Spanish, right?”

Azzi grinned, looking up at her. “Yeah, it’s just us. Who needs words when we’ve got this?”

Paige chuckled softly. “We do have ankles to break back at home, though…” she trailed off, her tone playful. “But yeah. I’d love it here. With you.”

Azzi smiled to herself, her fingers tracing patterns on Paige’s stomach, the soft rise and fall of her breath calming her. There was no rush in this moment. No expectations. No cameras. Just their silly, random thoughts filling the silence. Just them.

Paige leaned down, her lips brushing against Azzi’s forehead before she suddenly rolled her over, flipping them so Azzi was the one lying on the soft grass now. Azzi gasped, laughing as her curls fanned out around her. The sunlight hit them just right, turning the strands golden at the edges. Paige lowered herself, her lips finding Azzi’s once again—this time more urgent, more alive.

Azzi barely had time to react before she found herself laughing into the kiss. “Paige, I—”

Paige pulled back just a little, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. “Azzi, I’m kinda in the middle of something here.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, trying to stifle her giggles. “And so am I.”

Paige blinked, clearly confused. “What?”

Before Paige could say anything else, Azzi’s hands reached down, and with a grin, she held up a tiny, fluffy white kitten. It mewed softly, its tiny paws stretching in the air like it had also just woken up from a nap.

Paige blinked again, now in pure disbelief. “Wait. Where did you even find that?!”

Azzi grinned wider, holding the cat up to Paige’s face. “Doesn’t matter. She’s ours now.”

Paige gave the kitten a careful once-over, gently picking it up. “Okay, but is it a boy or a girl?”

Azzi leaned in, squinting. “Uh, I think it’s a girl?”

Paige nodded like she was making a very important executive decision. “Yep, she’s a girl,” she said, now cradling the kitten like it was the most delicate thing in the world.

Azzi burst into laughter, watching Paige immediately turn soft over a cat she had met literally ten seconds ago. “You’re so extra.”

“I’m not extra,” Paige defended with a dramatic scoff. “This little girl is just a whole vibe.”

Azzi smirked. “Guess we’re parents now. She’s our responsibility.”

Paige lit up. “Alright, I’m gonna name her... uh, Mimi.” She looked at Azzi for approval, eyes full of anticipation.

Azzi rolled her eyes, but the fond smile on her lips gave her away. “Mimi? That’s your best idea?”

Paige shrugged dramatically. “Hey, I think it suits her. She’s cute, sweet, and a little wild.”

Azzi giggled, leaning up to kiss Paige’s cheek. “Fine. Mimi it is.”

Paige stretched out on the grass, gazing up at the clear sky, then over at the sparkling lake just beyond them. The sun glinted off the water, making it look almost unreal, like something out of a painting. She turned to Azzi with a grin, her eyes playful. “Sooo… wanna jump in the lake?”

Azzi side-eyed the water, then side-eyed Paige. “I’d rather get bitten by those mosquitoes chilling on that tree,” she said, pointing dramatically. “At least they’d be quick about it.”

Paige snorted, her grin widening. “Even if you had a thousand mosquito bites, I’d still kiss you all over. Just to make it better.”

Azzi stared at her, blinking in disbelief. “How dumb are you?”

“Hey, I’d do it for you,” Paige said with a shrug, trying to keep a straight face before cracking up. “Okay, okay, maybe I’m a little dumb, but it’s the thought that counts.”

Azzi shook her head, trying to hold back her own smile. “You’re ridiculous, you know that?”

Paige sat up, holding out a hand. “Come on. Let’s go to the pier. It’ll be fun.”

Azzi sighed like she was agreeing reluctantly, but her fingers still laced with Paige’s the moment she reached for her. Their hands fit together so naturally, so easily, like they had always been meant to find each other.

And just like that, they walked toward the wooden pier, their laughter filling the air, their world existing only for them. ━

By the time they made it to the end of the pier, Paige wasted zero time, plopping down on the edge like she owned the place. She stretched her legs out, swung them over the water, and took a deep, dramatic breath like she was soaking in the cinematic beauty of the moment. Then, without hesitation, she grabbed the hem of her shirt, yanked it off, and folded it way too neatly for someone who was about to do something dumb. Her shorts came next, leaving her in nothing but a sports bra and a pair of boxers, the waistband slightly rolled down like she was trying to look effortlessly cool.

She shot Azzi a grin, all mischief. “You sure you’re not tempted?”

Azzi barely blinked. “Tempted to do what? Watch you lose a limb to whatever’s lurking in that water? Not particularly.”

Paige snorted. “Nika told you there are sharks, didn’t she?”

Azzi raised a single, unimpressed brow. “She was very convincing.”

“Az, she told me the same thing about Croatia, and guess what? Both my legs? Still here. My head? Still attached. All ten fingers? Check.” Paige wiggled them like she was proving a point.

Azzi side-eyed the water, still unconvinced. “You’re actually insane.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Paige said, waving a dismissive hand before—yup—yeeting herself into the lake like she had no sense of self-preservation.

The splash was massive. Water rained down onto the pier, soaking Azzi’s legs and a good chunk of her lap. She gasped, nearly toppling over. “Paige! What the hell?!”

Paige resurfaced, grinning way too wide, her hair plastered to her face like a wet dog. “That. Was. Amazing.” She wiped water from her eyes. “Get in here, babe. It’s perfect.”

Azzi, still sitting in her newly damp clothes, let out a sharp laugh but shook her head. “Paige. My knees.”

Paige’s expression turned dramatic in an instant, her voice dropping into something soft, teasing, yet somehow serious. “If you need me to carry you back to the hotel, I’ll do it. A thousand times over.” She tipped her head, eyes gleaming. “Just jump. I got you.”

Azzi chewed the inside of her cheek, glancing between Paige and the water like she was mentally calculating all possible ways this could go wrong. But then there was Paige—drenched, grinning, looking up at her with that signature dumbass confidence.

Ugh.

Azzi exhaled through her nose. “You are such a dork.”

“And yet, you’re still in love with me,” Paige shot back, tossing in a wink.

Azzi groaned, but it wasn’t exactly a denial. She stood, brushing off the dirt on her legs, already regretting every decision that led her here. “If I get eaten by something, it’s on you.”

“No one’s getting eaten. Except maybe—”

“Paige.”

“Sorry, sorry, I’ll be good.”

“Paige,” Azzi drawled, giving her a look.

Paige snapped out of it, blinking rapidly. “Right, okay. You’re totally gonna jump this time, yeah? No backing out?”

Azzi rolled her eyes, shaking out her limbs like she was prepping for war. “I will literally—”

“Okay, on three.” Paige clapped her hands together, excitement written all over her face. “One!”

Azzi swallowed.

“Twoooooo—” Paige drew it out, eyes sparkling.

“I can’t, PAIGE” Azzi took a step back like she was contemplating running for her life.

Paige full-on cackled, arms slapping the water. “GET IN! YOU’RE SO DRAMATIC!”

Azzi crossed her arms, cheeks warm, her voice dropping to a soft, amused murmur. “Paige. You’re so loud.”

Paige immediately shut up. Her expression shifted, something almost sheepish flickering across her face. She exhaled, lowering her voice. “Okay, sorry. Didn’t mean to yell.” Then, after a beat, she softened completely. “Just… please? Get in the water, Azzi. For me?”

Azzi met her gaze, heart racing as she saw how earnestly Paige was asking—how much she wanted this. And despite herself, despite every logical reason to roll her eyes and walk away, Azzi laughed, a soft, shy giggle escaping her lips. “You really are something else.”

Then, with zero warning, she let out a dramatic scream, took three quick steps back, and then full-send sprinted toward the edge of the pier. The second her feet left the wooden planks, she regretted everything.

“SHI—”

SPLASH.

The lake swallowed her whole. Cold, murky water rushed over her head, sending a shock down her spine. She surfaced a second later, hair plastered to her face, gasping. “Paige, I swear to God—”

But before she could finish, Paige launched herself in right after her, limbs flailing in what could only be described as the least graceful dive known to man. Water exploded around them, rippling outward in chaotic waves. Azzi barely had time to react before Paige popped up right in front of her, grinning like she just won the lottery.

“You are INSANE,” Azzi huffed, swiping wet strands of hair out of her face. “Do you know how many diseases there are in here?”

Paige shrugged, completely unbothered. “Do you know how hot you look right now?”

Azzi rolled her eyes but felt the warmth creeping up her neck anyway. “Shut up.”

Paige floated closer, her smile softening. “No, really.”

They were inches apart now, the water swirling around them, the world suddenly too quiet. Azzi’s breath hitched as Paige’s fingers brushed against her wrist, featherlight, like she wasn’t even sure she was allowed to touch her.

“Hi, silly,” Azzi whispered, lips barely moving, her voice soft enough that it was almost lost in the sound of water lapping at the shore.

Paige’s chest tightened. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as she rested her hands lightly on Azzi’s waist, like holding something delicate, something she didn’t want to startle away. “Hey,” she whispered back.

They stood there, locked in something neither of them had the words for. The sun hung low in the sky, streaking pink and orange across the water, but Azzi wasn’t looking at the sunset. She was looking at Paige. Paige, with her messy wet bun slipping out of place, with droplets of water clinging to her skin, with that infuriatingly soft expression that made Azzi’s stomach flip.

Paige tilted her head toward the sky. “Hey, Azzi.”

Azzi narrowed her eyes. “What?”

Paige smirked, all mischief. “Look at the sky.”

Azzi frowned, skeptical. “Why? Are you about to propose?”

“Just look, baby. Trust me.”

Azzi sighed but glanced up anyway. The clouds were tinged gold, a few birds soaring overhead, and—

WHOOSH

Before she even registered what happened, Paige’s hands found her shoulders and shoved. Hard.

Azzi yelped as she was sent plunging backwards into the water, sinking under with a flurry of bubbles. For a split second, all she saw was murky blue-green, feet kicking up tiny storms of sand from the lake floor.

When she surfaced, sputtering, she wiped her face and glared at Paige, who was cackling so hard she nearly went under herself. “Really?!”

Paige, still giggling, gave a lazy shrug. “You looked too peaceful.”

Azzi didn’t hesitate. With all the speed and precision of a trained athlete, she lunged forward and grabbed Paige by the wrist, yanking her under in one swift motion.

Paige let out a muffled “HEY—” before the water swallowed her whole.

Azzi waited, smug, arms crossed as she floated. Paige resurfaced a moment later, blinking furiously, hair now completely undone and sticking to her face in tangled wet strands.

“Okay,” Paige admitted, breathless, “I might’ve deserved that.”

“You definitely deserved that.”

They floated there, the tension between them buzzing like an exposed wire. Something had shifted, something neither of them could name, but they both felt it—like the second before lightning strikes, like standing on the edge of something vast and unknown.

Paige broke the silence first, her voice dipping lower. “Hey, Azzi…”

Azzi hummed, tilting her head. “What now?”

Paige’s grin turned wicked. “Have you ever had an underwater kiss?”

Azzi blinked. “What?”

Paige floated closer, eyes glinting. “I mean, we’re already here. Might as well cross it off the bucket list.”

Azzi stared at her, torn between laughing and throwing Paige across the lake. “Paige. We’re gonna drown.”

Paige smirked. “Then let’s make it a memorable way to go.”

Azzi huffed, biting her lip. “Okay, but I swear to God, if I die, I’m haunting you.”

Paige grinned, voice dropping into something teasing, something warm. “Deal.”

Before Azzi could overthink it, Paige grabbed her hand and pulled them both under.

For a moment, everything was still. ━

The world above blurred into soft, shifting light. Below, the water muffled every sound, wrapping them in quiet, in something weightless and infinite. Azzi’s fingers curled instinctively around Paige’s wrist, their hands slipping slightly, but neither of them let go.

They hovered there, breath held, foreheads nearly brushing, their noses barely touching. Azzi’s pulse roared in her ears. Paige’s hand found her jaw, fingers warm even in the cold water, thumb tracing a path along her cheekbone like she was memorizing her by touch alone.

Azzi exhaled, bubbles trailing up toward the surface. Paige smiled, just slightly, before leaning in.

Then, with no more hesitation, they leaned in, their lips meeting in the cool, damp air of the water. The kiss was slow at first—gentle—unhurried, like they had all the time in the world. But as the seconds stretched, it grew deeper, more urgent, as though neither of them wanted to let go of the moment.

Paige’s hands slid around Azzi’s waist, pulling her closer, her grip tightening as she brought their bodies flush together. The pressure was electric—Azzi could feel every inch of Paige, the strong hands on her back, the way her breath quickened beneath the water. And just as their kiss deepened, Paige’s hands moved lower, squeezing Azzi’s ass just a little too much, pulling a small, weak slap from Azzi.

Azzi pulled back slightly, eyes wide in mock indignation. “Did you seriously just—”

But before she could finish her sentence, Paige grinned, pulling her back to the surface. They both broke through the water, gasping for air, their faces flushed and their hearts still racing.

Azzi’s chest rose and fell with every breath, her skin tingling from the adrenaline. She smiled at Paige, a little out of breath but feeling like she’d just experienced something she never expected to. “That was... better than I thought,” she admitted, her lips curling into a soft grin. “Thanks for having my first underwater kiss with me.”

Paige’s smile widened, and without missing a beat, she gave Azzi a playful squeeze on the ass in response. “You’re welcome, baby.” She leaned in, her voice teasing but full of warmth. “Next time, I’ll let you squeeze back.”

Azzi laughed, rolling her eyes but feeling the warmth in her chest. “Oh, please,” she scoffed, but there was a smile on her lips that told Paige everything she needed to know. “You’re lucky I’m not drowning you right now.”

But even as she said it, she pulled Paige closer, as if she never wanted to let her go.

Azzi looked at Paige, her brow raised in playful skepticism, and suddenly broke the moment with a soft chuckle. "We're both living icks right now," she said, a little incredulously, but still with that mischievous smile of hers.

Paige's face softened, her usual teasing expression morphing into something more genuine as she laughed lightly. "I don't care," she shrugged, the carefreeness in her tone a reflection of her easygoing nature. “You think I care about looking cute? Nah, I’m just here for you.”

Azzi couldn’t help but smile at Paige’s carefree confidence, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. In that moment, she leaned forward slowly, pressing her lips to Paige’s in a soft kiss. It wasn’t rushed or heated, just a moment of pure connection. She pulled away slightly, her lips still hovering near Paige’s as she whispered, “I can’t imagine my life without you.”

Paige’s eyes softened, her thumb gently brushing against Azzi’s cheek as she let out a breath, almost as if she was taking in the full weight of the words. “Well, you don’t have to,” she said, her voice tender. Her lips met Azzi’s again, and this time the kiss felt even deeper, like a promise that there was no going back. No separation. They were already too intertwined to untangle.

Azzi couldn’t help but smile into the kiss, her heart feeling full, as if the whole world had shrunk down to just them in that moment. She pulled away a fraction, still looking at Paige. In the quiet of the space between them, Azzi’s mind wandered, her thoughts swirling as she realized something she hadn’t before. Paige had a way of making my Mondays feel like Fridays. It was like every moment with her was the weekend, no matter what time of the week it was. She couldn’t remember the last time something felt so easy, so simple.

Paige, too, was lost in her own thoughts as she gazed at Azzi. She was still replaying that moment when Azzi first said "hello" to her. It was casual—no big deal, just a greeting—but in that second, Paige had known something was different. Like the whole universe had just shifted and aligned in a way she couldn’t explain. Azzi’s hello was the start of everything, and Paige was hooked from then on.

“Do you ever think about that?” Paige asked softly, a little out of nowhere, her eyes searching Azzi’s.

Azzi, still caught up in the moment and the thought of how quickly she had fallen, just shrugged lightly, a smirk tugging at her lips. "What, how I got you wrapped around my finger from the start?" she teased, but there was softness in her voice, as if the question wasn’t all that far from the truth.

Paige laughed, leaning her forehead against Azzi’s. “Yeah, something like that.”

They were sitting there, the world just kinda fading into the background. Silence hung between them, but it wasn’t awkward. It was peaceful, like everything around them was just... right. Azzi couldn’t help but smile, the kind of smile that said she’d found something she didn’t know she was looking for.

She let out a quiet breath, leaning into Paige’s arm, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on the soft fabric of Paige's sleeve. “I’m lucky, you know that?” she said, her voice low, but there was a quiet certainty in it—like she’d been waiting for this moment, for Paige.

Paige glanced down at her, that easy grin spreading across her face, like she didn’t even have to think about it. She pushed a damp strand of hair from Azzi’s face, her touch lingering for a second longer than needed. “We both are,” Paige replied softly, her words full of something warm—something that wrapped around Azzi like a blanket.

Then, with the same ease, Paige kissed Azzi’s forehead, a kiss that wasn’t rushed, just... perfect. “I’m glad I found you,” she murmured, her voice almost a whisper but hitting Azzi like a wave.

Azzi let herself melt against Paige’s shoulder, the gentle rise and fall of her chest the only thing that anchored her to the moment.

━ The cool lake water clung to their skin as they waded out, droplets catching the last rays of the sun. The sky was still bright, but the evening light was starting to mellow, turning everything around them a golden shade, like the world had been dipped in honey. The air was crisp, the kind of comfortable that felt like a soft hug from the inside. The lake's quiet lapping was the loudest sound, other than the occasional bird doing its thing and the distant hum of traffic, still too far to be bothersome.

Paige snagged her phone from where it rested on the towel, checking the time with one hand as the other wiped water from her face. A few notifications lit up her screen. Of course, she thought with a soft eye roll.

KK: twin where have y’all been? oh and also can i borrow your charger? i left mine in storrs

Paige smiled to herself. Classic KK. She quickly typed a reply, her thumbs moving fast.

Paige: Az and I went to the lake, and yeah, you can borrow it. We’ll be back at the hotel soon.

She sent it and scrolled down to the next message.

Ice: we’re at the hotel, chillin’. also, i think azzi’s underwear was stuck in the sheets or something. Y’all really have to do a better job at this.

Paige snorted, holding her phone a little tighter as she laughed quietly. Seriously, Ice? She typed back, shaking her head as she tried to stop smiling.

Paige: dude, are you seriously bringing this up in a text. just don’t tell az, her knees are acting up. we’ll be back soon.

She laughed to herself at her own reply before moving on to the next one.

Aubs: whats the password to your netflix acc? We been trynna put on some friends. Hope y’all enjoyed the afternoon. Paige: i’mma tell you when i get there, and yes we did. It was splendid.

She hit send, then scrolled through a few photos her little brother, Drew, had sent. She grinned and sent them back to him with a quick caption.

Meanwhile, Azzi was slipping into her knitted bodycon, the fabric soft and tight, hugging her figure in a way that made Paige’s heart do a little flip. Azzi walked over with that effortless smile, rubbing Paige’s back in a playful way. Paige glanced up as she typed another reply, noticing Azzi and feeling her pulse quicken a little.

Azzi leaned in, resting her cheek on Paige’s shoulder, and Paige could feel her breath tickling her skin. Azzi was so close that it made Paige’s fingers fumble just slightly, her thumbs stumbling over the keys.

Azzi pressed a quick, soft kiss to Paige’s cheek, pulling back with that easy, warm grin that made Paige’s heart squeeze.

“Ready to go?” Azzi’s voice was soft but playful, like she was ready to roll but still wanted to tease.

Paige grinned, matching her tone. “Yeah. Let’s go.”

━

Hand in hand, they stepped onto the cobblestone streets of the little Argentine town, the kind of place where everything felt real and vibrant. The air was fresh with that perfect mix of crispness and warmth, and the whole town buzzed with life. The hum of people talking, laughing, and just living their lives echoed around them. In the distance, they could hear kids kicking a soccer ball around, their voices rising in excited shouts, the sound of sneakers skidding on the cobbles. It was the kind of place that felt like it could steal your heart in an instant.

As they walked, they passed street vendors with carts loaded with colorful snacks—bright pink cotton candy, crispy empanadas sizzling on grills, and freshly fried churros piled high, their sugar coating sparkling in the sun. The smell of grilled meat mixed with sweet, fried goodness, and it made Paige’s stomach rumble, but she couldn’t help but smile as she took in the scene.

“Azzi, look at that,” Paige said, her voice full of that playful excitement that was impossible to ignore, pointing at a stall overflowing with sugary treats that practically begged to be eaten. “We gotta come back for that.”

Azzi’s eyes lit up, her usual smirk turning into a full-blown grin. “I’m in.” She was always in for the little moments—moments like this, with Paige, that made everything feel like it was exactly where it was supposed to be.

They continued strolling down the street, the world feeling slow, easy, and effortless. The sun had started its descent, casting a golden glow on everything, and it felt like they could walk forever. Paige squeezed Azzi’s hand, pulling her a little closer as they moved through the crowd, their fingers intertwined, the connection between them as natural as breathing. The distant hum of traffic filled the air, but it was more like background noise to the peace they found in each other’s presence.

But before they could go any further, a soft, shy voice interrupted their bubble.

“Excuse me,” a little girl said, tapping Paige lightly on the shoulder. Paige turned around, meeting the shy, almost nervous gaze of the girl. She was small, with big brown eyes and an adorable, awkward smile. "Can I take a photo with you?" The girl’s English was halting, but her excitement was crystal clear in her sparkling eyes.

Paige’s heart melted. She smiled warmly, crouching down to the girl’s level so they were eye-to-eye. “Of course,” she said, her voice soft and kind. “Do you want Azzi in the picture too?”

The girl’s face lit up like it was the best thing she’d heard all day, her smile stretching wide. Paige looked up at Azzi, who was watching with an amused grin, clearly finding the whole thing endearing. Paige reached out for Azzi’s hand and pulled her gently toward the girl.

Azzi leaned in, one hand resting casually on her hip, while Paige draped an arm around the girl’s shoulders. The three of them stood there, grinning like they were best friends, a snapshot of simple happiness. The camera clicked, and just as quickly, the girl squeezed them both in a tight hug, giggling as she pulled away.

“¡Gracias!” she exclaimed, waving at them before darting off, her little laugh trailing behind her like a melody.

Azzi turned to Paige, her grin wide and genuine. “That was cute,” she said, her voice light but full of warmth.

Paige wrapped her arm around Azzi’s shoulders as they continued their walk, their fingers still locked together. “Yeah,” she agreed, smiling at the thought. “Just makes me realize how lucky we are, you know? That we get to be... us. Together.”

Azzi leaned into her, her cheek lightly resting against Paige’s shoulder, the comfort of the moment settling around them like a warm blanket. They continued walking through the bustling streets, the sounds of Spanish chatter and children’s laughter filling the air, the distant honk of a car horn a soft reminder of the outside world. But in that moment, it was just the two of them—walking through life side by side, perfectly in sync.

“It’s perfect,” Azzi said softly, her voice almost a whisper as she looked up at Paige. “I love it here... I love this.” Her words held that quiet intensity that Paige had come to adore, a mix of vulnerability and awe.

Paige smiled, pulling Azzi a little closer, her heart swelling. “Me too. And I love you,” she whispered, just loud enough for Azzi to hear.

Azzi glanced up, her lips curving into a smile that was as soft and genuine as the words she whispered back. “I love you, too.” And they kept walking, their fingers intertwined, as the lights of the city began to twinkle in the distance, everything falling into place perfectly, like it was meant to be.

━ The hotel room door creaked open, the sounds of their teammates already filling the space. It was that perfect blend of familiar chaos—soft TV murmurs, the occasional rustle of a snack bag, and the calming hum of a few pages flipping. Nika was on the carpet, propped up against the wall, her feet stretched out and her head buried in a fashion mag. Her expression? The usual mix of smug satisfaction and a vibe that screamed “I’m better than you, but I’ll let you find out on your own.”

Aubrey was standing by the TV, frowning like she was one wrong button away from throwing the remote out the window. Paige could hear the subtle click of buttons being pressed and the muffled curse when something didn’t work. It was so Aubrey.

Meanwhile, Ice was sprawled on the bed, phone in hand, scrolling through TikTok like her life depended on it. Probably hunting for something totally absurd to send to Nika. You could almost hear her plotting the chaos in her head.

When Paige and Azzi walked in, the room buzzed with that comfortable, chaotic energy.

“Hey, you two,” Aubrey called out without even looking away from her screen, her voice tinged with frustration. "Come save me from this tech nightmare."

Paige shot a glance at the remote mess in Aubrey’s hands, then grinned. “Hey girls,” she said casually, almost too amused by the mess of tangled buttons and wires.

Nika didn’t even glance up at first, but then her eyes shifted to Azzi and Paige, and she raised a brow. “Yo, what happened to your clothes?” she asked, her voice muffled by the magazine, but her gaze clearly taking in the damp, lake-soaked situation. “Y’all look like you just swam across the freaking lake or something.”

Paige smirked, nudging Azzi. “We went for a little swim,” she said, her grin widening.

Azzi shot her a look, narrowing her eyes with dramatic flair. “You mean you almost drowned us?” she deadpanned. “Paige almost killed me, y’all.”

The teasing banter hit instantly. Paige burst out laughing, clearly delighted by Azzi’s sarcasm, while Azzi crossed her arms and shot Paige a sideways smile that could've cut glass. Nika rolled her eyes, but the tiny smile playing at her lips betrayed her fondness.

“You two are ridiculous,” Nika muttered, flipping another page in her magazine, but the tone in her voice was warm despite the irritation.

Paige raised an eyebrow at Azzi, giving her a playful shrug. “I think she likes us that way.”

Azzi smirked. “Maybe. But I’m gonna go catch up with Caroline in the next room. She wanted something,” she said, nonchalantly tossing the words out like they were nothing.

Paige tilted her head in curiosity, the corners of her lips tugging upward. “What’d she want?”

Azzi shrugged, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “I don’t know, but I’ll be back soon. Don’t miss me too much,” she added with a wink, already starting to walk toward the door.

Before Azzi could leave, though, she leaned in, capturing Paige’s lips with a soft kiss. The moment lingered, almost teasing, before Azzi whispered, her lips still barely touching Paige’s, “Be good while I’m gone.”

Paige grinned, her hand catching Azzi’s before she pulled away. “Always,” she said with a wink of her own, watching her walk out, the door left slightly ajar, a sliver of warmth and chaos slipping through.

The moment the door clicks shut, Ice’s voice cuts through the room like a knife through butter. “Wait, did y’all seriously do it in a lake?” she asks, eyes wide with this mix of disbelief and amusement, like she can’t decide if she’s shocked or impressed.

Paige glares at Ice, narrowing her eyes with the perfect deadpan. “Isuneh, I swear to god,” she says, her voice dripping with that exaggerated, fake-threat energy that only Paige can pull off.

Ice throws her hands up in mock surrender, a grin stretching across her face. “Okay, okay, no need to get all scary on me,” she teases, laughing. “But y’all are always all smiley and shit. It’s cute. I just don’t need you two traumatizing us. The hotel staff is probably thinking all kinds of wild stuff.”

Paige rolls her eyes but can’t fully hide the smile creeping onto her face. “We’ll try, Ice, but you know—sometimes you gotta make things fun,” she says, her tone playful but with that little too chill vibe.

Ice snorts, shaking her head in mock disbelief. “Fun, huh?” she says, clearly not buying it.

Paige leans back against the wall, acting like she’s about to drop some serious info. “Oh, we did it on that bed, though,” she says, giving a nonchalant nod toward the bed Ice is currently lounging on, looking way too comfortable.

Ice’s face goes from carefree to straight-up horror in less than a second. She jumps off the bed like it just spontaneously combusted. “NOPE,” she practically yells, backing away from the bed like it might actually bite her. Her eyes are wide, and she’s nearly tripping over herself in her rush to get as far from it as possible.

Paige, now fully leaning into the drama, smirks and places her hands on her hips. “Thanks for the bed, Ice,” she says sweetly, but the sarcasm’s heavy in her voice.

Ice groans, grabbing a pillow and throwing it at Paige with an exaggerated, theatrical pout. “Y’all are ridiculous. Just… just go wash your damn clothes,” she says, rolling her eyes so hard you can practically hear them spin.

Nika, finally done with the banter, chimes in, looking around the room as if she’s over it all. “Seriously, though, the hot steam massage? Too fire. Had to leave a tip even though it was free. It was that good,” she says, her tone like she’s just imparted some deep wisdom.

Aubrey lets out an overly dramatic groan from the corner, sounding like she’s ready to explode. “Guys, can someone PLEASE help me with the Netflix login? I’m this close to throwing this remote through the TV,” she says, holding up the remote like it’s her worst enemy.

Paige raises an eyebrow, amused by how worked up Aubrey is. “I got you,” she says, stepping over and swiping the remote from Aubrey’s hands, taking control like a pro. She taps the remote, bringing up the login screen, and pauses for a second, her fingers hovering over the keyboard with the same mischievous glint she always has.

“You know it’s Azzi,” she says, dragging out the words for maximum drama. With a grin, she types in the password: “Azzi<3Paige8785.”

Aubrey's eyes light up, and she lets out a satisfied sigh as the screen loads. “Yoo, thanks, you really are a lifesaver, huh,” she says, looking at Paige like she just performed some kind of magic.

“I know,” Paige says, flashing a wide grin at Aubrey. She tosses the remote onto the nearest bed and flops down on it dramatically, like she just won the Olympics. (Which in fact, she did, multiple times)

━ The group was lounging around the room, the low hum of their chatter filling the space. Nika had her legs sprawled out on the carpet, flipping through a fashion magazine like she was planning world domination with every turn of the page. Ice was on one of the beds, glued to her phone, scrolling through TikTok with the kind of focus most people reserve for finals week. Aubrey was perched on the edge of the bed, grumbling under her breath as she fought with the TV remote, trying to get Netflix working.

"So, beach plans, y’all?" Nika broke the silence with a playful grin, clearly in the mood for something fun. "Sunset vibes, campfire, grilled meat. I’m down."

Paige’s ears perked up like a dog hearing a snack wrapper. "Wait, are we doing s’mores? I’m so down for some s’mores."

Nika barely looked up from her magazine, the deadpan stare she shot Paige making it clear this was not a serious question. "Dude, we’re in Argentina. I don’t think they’re out here eating like average Americans, alright?"

Paige dramatically flopped back onto the couch, hands over her face like she’d been personally attacked. "Thanks for the enthusiasm, Nika. You’re a real mood booster."

Nika shot her a grin, eyes twinkling like she just won the lottery. "You’re welcome."

Just as Paige was about to respond, the door creaked open, and Azzi walked in, followed by Caroline. Everyone greeted Caroline with their usual warm energy, but Paige’s attention immediately snapped to Azzi. She looked even more radiant than usual, the fresh shower she’d just taken making her skin glow in the soft light of the room. Paige’s heart gave a little flip.

Azzi was effortlessly glowing in a white tank top and loose shorts, walking toward Paige with that mischievous glint in her eyes that made Paige’s breath hitch. Before Paige could even process, Azzi dropped onto her lap like it was the most natural thing in the world.

"Hey, baby," Azzi murmured, her voice low and comfortable as she settled in, making Paige’s heart skip a beat.

Paige, still slightly in awe, leaned in, taking in the fresh scent of her skin. "You smell good, ma," she said softly, brushing a damp strand of Azzi’s hair from her face like it was the most intimate thing in the world.

Azzi smirked, teasing her as always. "You smell like fish," she said, wrinkling her nose like Paige had just insulted her.

Paige burst into laughter, the sound light and carefree. "Nice, babe. Real nice," she said, grinning before pressing a soft, wet kiss to Azzi’s neck. The contact made Azzi shiver, and she let out a low hum of appreciation.

Nika, not one to pass up an opportunity to mess with them, rolled her eyes from across the room. "Get a room, Romeo and Juliet," she sighed dramatically, clearly fed up with their constant back-and-forth teasing.

Paige and Azzi exchanged a soft look, their gazes filled with the kind of affection that made it clear this wasn’t just playful banter. "We might just take you up on that offer," Paige shot back with a grin, her tone mischievous.

Aubrey, glancing at the clock, interrupted the moment. "Okay, y’all, we’ve got like 30 minutes before we need to head to the beach. Let’s wrap it up, yeah?"

Paige stretched her arms over her head with a yawn, trying to shake off the lingering warmth Azzi’s touch had left on her skin. "Alright, I’mma shower and then we can head out." She grabbed her towel, already picturing the soft sand between her toes and Azzi’s teasing smile in her mind.

The group continued to chat about the evening ahead, but Caroline, noticing Azzi’s distracted expression, slid onto the couch next to her. "Girl, you really down bad," Caroline said with a sly grin, nudging Azzi lightly.

Azzi raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying the playful teasing but not backing down. "What do you mean, Car?"

Caroline leaned in close, her voice dropping just enough so the others wouldn’t hear. "Dude, you’re literally wearing black panties under white shorts," she said, shaking her head with a knowing grin. "You’re really out here letting Paige see all that, huh?"

Azzi’s lips curled into a smirk, but she wasn’t fazed. "So? I just like them," she shrugged casually, but there was that tiny blush creeping up her neck that Caroline definitely noticed.

Caroline let out a soft laugh, leaning back with a mischievous sparkle in her eye. "Okay, sure, girl. Just please, for the love of all things sacred, keep it down tonight, okay? We don’t need to be traumatized by your chemistry," she teased, her eyes lighting up with amusement.

Azzi didn’t respond right away. Instead, she bit her bottom lip, already lost in thoughts of Paige’s hands on her skin, the warmth of her touch. Her mind wandered, a soft smile playing at her lips as she got lost in the daydream.

"Azzi," Caroline said, snapping her out of her daze, her voice playful. "You good?"

Azzi blinked, coming back to the present and meeting Caroline’s eyes with a mischievous glint. "Yeah, I’m good. Don’t worry about me," she said, already plotting her next move.

━ Paige stepped out of the bathroom, her hair still damp, the faint smell of her shower soap lingering in the air. She pulled on a loose white shirt that hugged her body just enough to show off the soft curve of her shoulders, paired with floral shorts that screamed summer vibes. The silver necklace around her neck caught the light as she moved, giving off a subtle shimmer that made her look effortlessly put together. Azzi, who had been leaning against the bed scrolling through her phone, couldn’t help but pause, her eyes tracking Paige’s every movement.

Azzi’s gaze lingered a little too long, tracing the outline of Paige’s body, from the way the shirt clung to her waist to the curve of her thighs. She didn’t even try to hide the fact that she was staring. Paige caught the look, her lips curling into a smirk.

“You good, ma?” Paige teased, eyebrows arched as she casually plopped down next to Azzi on the bed, making sure their knees brushed just enough to make Azzi’s breath hitch.

Azzi snapped out of her trance, the faintest blush creeping onto her cheeks. “Yeah… yeah, just… you look good,” she said, voice soft but laced with that familiar warmth that always made Paige’s heart do a little flip.

Paige chuckled, her voice playful. “You act like you’ve never seen me before, babe.”

Azzi leaned her head against Paige’s shoulder, her breath slow and content as she sighed. “It’s just… you look different,” she admitted, her voice quieter now, almost reverent. “Like, somehow even more... stunning than usual.”

Paige’s chest swelled with that warm, fluttery feeling she only got when Azzi looked at her like that—like she was the only thing that mattered in the world. “Thanks, ma. I try,” Paige replied, nudging her playfully.

Azzi’s smile widened, but she straightened up, clearing her throat. “Ready to go to the beach?” she asked, trying to shift the mood back to normal. She adjusted her posture, shoulders squaring as she made the effort to focus on something else.

Paige nodded, grinning. “Yeah, let’s go. Sunset’s waiting for us.” ━

As they stood and made their way toward the door, the others were already gathering to head out. Caroline passed by Paige, a sly grin spreading across her face. “You better not fuck this up, P,” Caroline said lightly, though there was a definite warning edge to her tone.

Paige laughed, completely oblivious. “What, like the time I forgot to pack sunscreen?” she shot back, flashing a grin. She waved her hand dismissively, acting like it was nothing. “I got this. No worries.”

Azzi rolled her eyes playfully as Caroline walked ahead, but there was a subtle look exchanged between her and Paige that no one else could quite catch.

They were the last two to leave the room, walking down the hallway, the sound of their footsteps echoing softly in the quiet space. The elevator doors slid open just as they arrived, and Nika, already inside, shot Paige a mock-warning look. “Don’t you dare press any buttons, P,” she said, eyebrow raised, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “We’re not risking another near-death experience.”

The whole group burst out laughing, but Paige—of course—pretended to be offended, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. “What? I can’t have a little fun? You guys are no fun.”

She reached for the buttons, fingers hovering over the panel, but Azzi quickly swatted her hand away, her eyes narrowing playfully. “Stop it, Paige,” she muttered, though the smile tugging at the corners of her lips betrayed her.

Paige sighed dramatically, holding her hands up in mock surrender. “Fine, fine,” she said, winking at Nika, who was standing with her arms crossed, eyes still locked on Paige, making sure she didn’t pull any stunts.

The elevator dinged and arrived at the lobby floor. The doors slid open, revealing an older couple waiting to step in. They gave the group a polite, warm smile, and for a split second, Nika couldn’t help herself.

“Wow, that’s the first time an older person hasn’t given me a side-eye,” Nika commented, voice dripping with playful disbelief. The others burst into laughter, the tension in the air lightening instantly.

Paige wrapped her arm around Azzi’s waist, pulling her closer, a sense of ease settling over them. Azzi, without thinking, slipped her hand into the back pocket of Paige’s shorts, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. They were practically inseparable, not just physically but in the way their personalities fit so perfectly together.

“Don’t let go, alright?” Paige whispered, lips brushing Azzi’s ear, sending a shiver down her spine. The heat of Paige’s breath against her skin made her heart race. “I’m not leaving you alone for a second tonight.”

Azzi tilted her head back to meet Paige’s gaze, her lips curling into a soft smile. “Promise,” she whispered back, her fingers tightening just a little in the back pocket of Paige’s shorts.

The elevator doors closed with a soft chime, and they headed toward the beach, the air buzzing with their laughter and easy conversation. As they stepped outside, the sun’s warmth still lingered in the air, casting everything in a golden glow. Despite the teasing, the playful banter, and the jokes, there was something undeniable in the way they were together—like they were two pieces of the same puzzle, effortlessly fitting together.

“So,” Nika said, glancing over at the group, “who’s making the first move on the campfire tonight? Because if it’s Paige, we’re probably gonna end up with charcoal instead of a roast.”

Paige grinned mischievously. “I’m excellent with fires. You’ll see.”

But as they walked toward the beach, the sound of the waves in the distance and the excitement of the night ahead, nothing else mattered. Not the teasing, not the jokes. All that mattered was the moment, and the fact that they were together—laughing, teasing, and perfectly in sync. ━ The group finally made it down to the beach, the golden sun spilling over everything, making the sand look like something out of a tropical postcard. The air smelled like salt, sunscreen, and the faint hint of the ocean breeze. The moment they stepped onto the beach, they spotted Aaliyah, already lounging like she owned the place, sunglasses sitting pretty on her nose, and casually eating a mango like it was her full-time job.

"Y'all took forever," Aaliyah said with a dramatic eye-roll, biting into the mango with exaggerated flair. "Could've grown a whole mango tree by now."

Paige, not missing a beat, plopped down next to her with a dramatic sigh. "Why do you look like you just retired in Miami?" she asked, fanning herself.

Aaliyah grinned, unbothered. "I'm manifesting, babe. One day, I’ll be living this life. Just wait."

Meanwhile, on the other side of the beach, Coach was standing there, arms crossed, sunglasses on, looking like he was auditioning for a role in Witness Protection Program: Beach Edition. His whole vibe screamed, "I’m just here to observe and not get involved."

Nika leaned toward Ice, whispering, “Look at him. He really thinks he’s incognito or something.”

The group cracked up as they dropped their bags, laid out towels, kicked off sandals, and adjusted to beach life. Paige and Azzi made their way toward the water, finding a chill spot where the waves gently crashed against the shore. As they sat down, the sand shifted beneath them, and their legs brushed together. It was like the world had slowed down a bit, everything feeling kinda perfect.

Azzi crossed her legs and glanced out at the ocean, her fingers absentmindedly drawing shapes in the sand. Paige leaned back, palms flat on the sand, head tilted up toward the sun, letting it soak into her skin.

Azzi let out a quiet sigh, breaking the peaceful silence. "Lowkey, I feel like I could just stay here forever," she said, her voice soft but carrying that kind of wistful longing.

Paige turned her head, studying her for a second before smirking. “So you’re saying we should just ditch the team and start a new life as beach bums?”

Azzi snorted. “You wouldn’t last a week.”

“Excuse me,” Paige said, placing a hand over her heart. “I would thrive. I’d be that one surfer girl who doesn’t actually surf but wears the aesthetic.”

Azzi rolled her eyes just as—thunk!—a loud thump interrupted them.

“All right, y’all! Who wants some watermelon?” Nika yelled, pulling out a whole watermelon and flopping it onto the towel like it was a WWE smackdown.

Heads turned.

Silence.

Then, chaos.

“Where did you get a whole watermelon?” Ayanna asked, eyebrows raised.

Nika smirked and pulled a kitchen knife out of her duffel bag.

The group recoiled.

“YO—where did you get that?” Caroline demanded, leaning back like Nika was about to perform a magic trick.

"Don't ask questions," Nika said, completely unfazed. "Do you want a piece or not?"

Everyone immediately nodded because watermelon was watermelon, even if it came with mild criminal activity. Nika got to work slicing, while Ice sat beside her, watching with concern.

“This is how we die,” Ice mumbled.

As slices got passed around, Paige leaned back and clapped her hands together. "Alright, so who’s starting the campfire?"

Ice took a thoughtful bite of watermelon, chewed dramatically, then went, “Well, we could blow on it. Y’know, like the people back then did it.”

There was a pause.

A long pause.

Then a collective explosion of laughter.

“You mean cavemen?!” Ayanna wheezed.

“The people back then,” Ice repeated, unfazed. “We gotta embrace the struggle.”

Nika wiped tears from her eyes. “I can’t believe you just said that with a straight face.”

Paige, holding her stomach from laughing, pointed at Ice. “I respect the commitment, though.”

Azzi shook her head, reaching over to steal a piece of Paige’s watermelon. “You are so unserious.”

“I’m full of wisdom,” Ice declared. “Now, watch me create fire from pure vibes.”

As the sun dipped lower, the team sat there, eating stolen watermelon, attempting to start a fire with sheer willpower, and making memories that were going to be brought up for years.

━ Paige let out a deep laugh, shaking her head. “Bro, you cannot be serious.”

Ice shrugged, still holding onto their prehistoric vision. “We had to try.”

“No. We didn’t,” Paige said, standing up and dusting the sand off her shorts. “Y’all keep the caveman dream alive—I’m gonna go get some actual firepower.”

With that, she made her way toward a small beachfront bar, the air filled with the sound of waves and the faint, sultry notes of tango music floating from inside. The place had a cozy, rustic vibe—dim lights, wooden stools, a bartender who looked like he’d seen it all. Paige pulled out her phone and showed him a picture of matches because, let’s be real, she definitely did not know how to say “matches” in Spanish.

The bartender squinted at the screen, then nodded like, Oh, I gotchu. He handed her a small box.

“Gracias, boss,” Paige said, sliding him a fist bump, which he accepted with a look of amused confusion.

She jogged back to the group, shaking the box in her hand. “Guess who just saved us from an actual survival episode?”

The team turned their heads, expressions ranging from disbelief to straight-up awe.

“No way,” Caroline said, eyeing the box like it was an ancient artifact.

“You got them? Just like that?” Nika asked.

Paige smirked. “Some of us have social skills.”

Nika rolled her eyes. “Relax, you asked for matches, not the nuclear codes.”

Ignoring her, Paige struck a match and lit up the campfire, tossing in some dry wood. The flames flickered to life, glowing warm against their faces, crackling softly as they curled around the logs.

Azzi, watching the whole thing unfold, found herself hyper-focused—not on the fire, but on Paige. The way her muscles subtly flexed when she handled the wood, the effortless way she moved, the casual confidence in her stance.

Paige sat back down next to her, looking satisfied with herself. “There. No cave tactics required.”

Azzi, without thinking, leaned into her, resting her head against Paige’s chest. Paige blinked for a second, caught off guard, then wrapped an arm around Azzi’s waist, pulling her closer.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, streaking the sky in deep oranges and purples, the team fell into conversation—one of those effortless, talk-about-everything-and-nothing at the same time types. The warmth of the fire, the salty ocean breeze, the laughter—it all felt unreal, like something out of a coming-of-age movie.

Azzi, half-mumbling, half-laughing, brought up the moment.

“Remember that night when we, um…” She hesitated, her lips twitching into a smirk. “Met that stray cat?”

A split second of silence. Then—

“NAH. NO. NO WAY.” Nika practically lunged forward, eyes wide with scandal.

Paige sighed dramatically. “Azzi, I trusted you.”

Azzi was grinning. “I had to tell them.”

“Wait, wait, wait,” Caroline gasped, barely breathing from laughing. “A cat? DURING?”

Paige groaned. “Why does this sound like I was in some Disney princess fever dream?”

“That’s actually insane,” Ayanna said, shaking her head. “Y’all were like, mid-love story, and a random cat just appeared?”

“I swear on everything, it was watching us,” Azzi added. “Like, deadass just sitting there, judging.”

“I mean,” Nika said, wiping tears from laughing, “cats do be haters.”

They were still recovering from the story when Nika, in a completely unrelated move, pulled out a Sharpie from somewhere.

The team should have been suspicious.

Instead, they were distracted—because Aubrey had passed out mid-convo, lying back on her towel, completely knocked out from the long day.

And Nika? Oh, Nika saw an opportunity.

Moving like a seasoned criminal, she leaned in and—

One stroke.

Two strokes.

A full mustache now lived on Aubrey’s upper lip.

When she stirred slightly, Nika froze mid-doodle like a cartoon character caught in the act.

Then Aubrey turned her head, still asleep.

Everyone lost it.

Paige was rolling on the sand, clutching her stomach. Ice had to walk away to avoid choking on laughter. Caroline had actual tears in her eyes.

Aubrey, still peacefully snoozing, had no idea she was now the proud owner of a villainous, curly mustache.

“I—” Azzi gasped between wheezes. “I can’t breathe.”

Nika wiped imaginary dust off her hands. “Hang it in the Louvre”

And that was how the night went—chaos, laughter, inside jokes that would last forever. ━

As the night rolled on, the realization hit them all at once—

“Wait.” Ice sat up suddenly, eyes wide. “Weren’t we supposed to, like… grill something?”

A long pause. A collective brain lag.

“Oh shit.” Paige smacked her forehead. “The fish.”

Instant chaos.

Phones were pulled out, Google searches were launched. Nika typed in how to say fish in Spanish like she was hacking into the Matrix.

“Alright, alright,” she read aloud. “It’s pez.”

“Pez,” Paige repeated, testing it out. “Pez. Pez. Pez.”

“You sound like a broken record,” Azzi deadpanned.

“Pez,” Paige said one more time just to be annoying.

Aaliyah, still lounging like she was the queen of this whole operation, waved lazily at Paige. “Yo, while you’re at it, I can’t eat fish. Can you, like, grab me some vegetables or something?”

Paige squinted. “Vegetables?”

“Yeah. Y’know. Green stuff?”

“...Damn, you want me to just start foraging?”

“Love ya, thanks, bye,” Aaliyah said sweetly, rolling onto her side like she had no worries.

Paige shook her head but got up anyway, dusting off her shorts. “Alright. Operation Pez and Plants. I got this.”

She strutted back to the bar, confidence at an all-time high.

The moment she reached the counter, she leaned in, cool as hell. “Hey. We ordered pez. Is the pez waiting for us?”

The staff just… stared.

Like she had just asked them if they were in possession of a mythical sea creature.

One of them raised an eyebrow. “...Pez?”

“Sí,” Paige nodded, feeling very authentic. “The pez.”

A beat of silence. Then one of the waiters slowly pointed at a tray sitting on a nearby table.

“Oh, sick.” Paige grabbed it, feeling victorious. Before she turned away, she hesitated. “Hey, uh… y’all got, like… a tomato or something?”

The waiter exchanged a glance with his coworker, then reached under the counter and handed her a whole-ass tomato.

Paige blinked. “Damn. Just like that?”

The guy shrugged. “Sí.”

“Alright then. Love the energy.” Paige gave them a salute and turned—only to see Azzi already standing there, hands tucked behind her back, watching with amusement.

“You good?” Azzi asked, smirking.

“Oh, thriving,” Paige said, handing her the tray. “Got the pez. Got the tomato. Livin’ the dream.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but took the tray from her, and together, they started heading back.

As they walked, Paige’s eyes naturally drifted downward—just for a split second.

And that’s when she noticed it.

Azzi’s black panties, barely peeking above the waistband of her shorts.

Oh.

Paige immediately bit back a grin, her brain short-circuiting for a good two seconds.

She let out a small laugh to herself.

Azzi, side-eyeing her, caught it. “What’s so funny?”

Paige, still grinning like an idiot, shrugged. “Nothing. Just enjoying this day.” She nodded toward the beach, the bonfire, their teammates acting like absolute fools. “With you. And those idiots.”

Azzi stared at her for a moment, then softened. Without thinking too much about it, she leaned in and kissed Paige’s cheek.

Paige—who had not been expecting that—froze for half a second before her grin turned even dumber.

By the time they made it back to the group, they set the trays down, and everyone crowded around, looking at the fish like it was an unsolved mystery.

“So, uh…” Nika rubbed her hands together. “How do we start?”

A deep silence fell over the group.

Ice poked at the fish with a stick. “Do we, like… season it?”

Paige clapped a hand on Ice’s shoulder. “Buddy. That is an excellent question.”

Ice clapped her hands together like she was about to deliver a TED Talk. “Alright, listen up, children. I watched a tutorial, so I know exactly how to do this.”

The group side-eyed her so hard.

“Okay, but, like… from where?” Ayanna asked suspiciously. “Was it an actual cooking channel, or did you just watch some dude in his backyard with an iPhone 6?”

Ice crossed her arms. “It was Gordon Ramsay, first of all—”

“Cap,” Nika interrupted. “Gordon Ramsay is not out here teaching people how to grill fish over a bonfire.”

“Okay, fine, it was some random uncle on YouTube, but that’s besides the point.” Ice huffed. “Just trust the process.”

Surprisingly, the process actually worked.

They seasoned the fish, tossed the vegetables on the grill, and within minutes, the warm air filled with the mouthwatering smell of grilled food—spices blending together, the slight charred crisp of the fish skin, the sweetness of caramelizing onions.

“Yo… we might actually be onto something,” Paige admitted, leaning back with a proud nod.

“Yeah, yeah,” Nika waved her off. “Anyway, hear me out—” She held up a slice of watermelon. “What if we grill this?”

Immediate uproar.

“Bro, no.”

“Why would you even say that?”

“We are not about to grill watermelon like it’s a damn steak.”

Nika threw up her hands. “Okay, damn, y’all are acting like I committed a crime.”

“You did.” Azzi deadpanned.

“Okay, but—” Nika was really about to start defending it when Aubrey, who had been completely silent this whole time, suddenly woke up from her nap, looked around, and mumbled, “Grilled watermelon actually kinda slaps.”

Everyone turned to her like she had just admitted to tax fraud.

“See?!” Nika pointed triumphantly. “I knew I wasn’t crazy.”

“No, no,” Paige shook her head. “She’s delirious. She just woke up, you can’t trust anything she says right now.”

Aubrey blinked. “Huh?”

“Exactly,” Paige said.

Nika sighed dramatically and flopped back onto her towel. “Y’all are not visionaries.”

Meanwhile, the fish was cooking perfectly, the veggies were slightly charred but still fresh, and everything was falling into place.

As the team sat around the fire, breathing in the smell of their hard-earned meal, there was a quiet moment of satisfaction—like, damn. ━

As the last bits of food disappeared and everyone settled into their post-meal habits, the beach vibes were immaculate.

Nika was down by the shore, feet in the water like she was filming a perfume commercial. Ice was completely knocked out, starfished on her towel. Aaliyah had her nose buried in a book like they weren’t on a team vacation, and Aubrey—well, she was still very much asleep, mustache and all.

Azzi and Paige, meanwhile, were in their own little world. Azzi sat comfortably in Paige’s lap, her arms draped lazily around Paige’s shoulders while Paige held onto her waist to make sure she didn’t tumble backward like a Jenga piece.

Paige leaned in slightly. “You tryna get some ice cream?”

Azzi perked up. “Oh, bet.”

“I heard they got Olaf-themed ones.”

Azzi’s eyes lit up like she just heard breaking news. “Wait, really?!”

Paige let out a snort. “Nah, I’m playin’.”

Azzi narrowed her eyes. “That’s not funny.”

“It was a little funny.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

Azzi just huffed dramatically and got up. Paige grinned, standing with her. “C’mon, let’s go. They’re all knocked out, and Nika is… well, Nika.”

They wandered over to a small street vendor selling popsicles. Paige grabbed an orange one, while Azzi picked out a strawberry. But—because Paige knew Azzi—she also got her an apple-flavored one, just in case.

“Why’d you get two?” Azzi raised a brow.

Paige shrugged. “’Cause I know you. You’re gonna take, like, three licks of that strawberry one and suddenly decide apple is superior.”

Azzi scoffed but didn’t deny it.

As they made their way back, Ice had somehow woken up, groggy but immediately clocking the popsicles.

“Yo, lemme get a bite.”

Paige held out her orange one. “Go for it.”

Ice took one bite, then made the most disgusted face. “Eugh.”

Paige stared at her. “Really?”

Ice shrugged. “Tasted too orange.”

“It’s literally an orange popsicle, what did you—never mind.” Paige waved her off.

Ice stood up, dusting the sand off her legs. “Yeah, I’m gonna head back. I don’t want the shower line to be insane later.” She grabbed her bag, then pointed at Aubrey’s diabolical-sleeping form. “Tell Nika she stole my socks.”

Paige saluted. “Aye aye, captain.”

Azzi smirked. “You think Aubrey’s ever gonna wake up?”

Paige looked at her, then at Aubrey, still blissfully unaware of the fake mustache on her face.

“Honestly? I hope not.”

Azzi stretched before nudging Aubrey’s arm. “Yo, Sleeping Beauty, time to wake up.”

Aubrey groaned dramatically, like she had just been asked to run suicides in practice. She blinked a few times, then checked her phone, squinting at the screen like it had personally offended her. With a slow nod, she dragged herself up to her feet.

Meanwhile, Nika was making her way back toward them, looking way too energized for someone who had just spent half the night causing chaos. “Damn, we leaving already?” she pouted. “It was just starting to get interesting.”

The entire group just stared at her.

Nika cracked a grin. “Okay, okay, I’m fucking with y’all.”

Aaliyah, already packed and fully in responsible adult mode, waved at them. “Y’all are slow, I’m going back,” she called before heading toward the hotel.

Aubrey looked around. “Wait… where are my sunglasses?”

Cue Paige, sitting there with zero remorse, spinning Aubrey’s sunglasses between her fingers.

Aubrey frowned. “Dude.”

Paige smirked and handed them back. “My bad, my bad. You just make it too easy.”

Aubrey sighed but took them. Then Paige, for no reason, burst out laughing.

Aubrey blinked. “What?”

“Nothing, nothing,” Paige wheezed.

Azzi shook her head, biting her lip to keep from laughing too.

Aubrey was so damn clueless about the fact that Nika’s Sharpie masterpiece was still living rent-free on her face.

Aubrey just shrugged. “Y’all are weird. Goodnight.” She waved and headed to the hotel, sunglasses crooked as hell on her face.

Nika clapped her hands together and started rambling in Croatian—something about finally finding whatever the hell she had been looking for all night. Paige and Azzi just stood there, nodding along, completely desensitized to the chaos at this point.

Finally, Nika grinned, slung an arm around both of them, and squeezed. “Alright, goodnight, you losers.”

Paige smirked. “Love you too, twin.”

Azzi shook her head, but she was smiling. “Goodnight, Nika.”

━ They sit there for a while, the night air warm but crisp, the distant chatter from the bar blending with the sound of waves. Azzi’s head rests against Paige’s shoulder, her body warm against her. Paige absentmindedly twirls the popsicle stick between her fingers, and just as she’s about to make some dumb joke about it being a weapon of mass destruction, Azzi turns to look at her.

Without warning, Azzi shoves Paige onto the sand.

Paige blinks up at her, eyebrows shooting up. “Bro, what was that for?”

Azzi smirks, straddling her waist. “For this.”

And before Paige can even process that, Azzi leans down and starts pressing soft, deliberate kisses along her neck, her collarbone, the sharp line of her jaw—each one slow and warm, leaving a trail of heat behind. Paige’s breath hitches when Azzi’s lips brush lower, just barely over her chest before she stops.

Azzi stays there, hands resting lightly against Paige’s chest, her fingers spreading out like she’s grounding herself. Paige is just staring at her, her blue eyes so stupidly soft, even in the dim light. She looks so calm, so completely at peace, and Azzi takes a second to just admire her.

Then, faintly in the background, music starts drifting over from the bar.

“Do I Wanna Know”—except it’s Hozier’s cover, the one that somehow sounds even more like a love confession than the original.

Paige grins. “Hey, Az.”

Azzi hums, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the fabric of Paige’s shirt.

Paige tilts her head toward the bar. “Our song is on.”

Azzi blinks. “Our song?”

Paige smirks. “Yeah, duh. You know, the one we slow danced to in the kitchen that one time before you almost burned the dorms down.”

Azzi rolls her eyes. “You told me to turn up the heat—”

“Not literally, babe.” Paige’s grin softens, and she gives Azzi a knowing look.

Azzi’s about to ask how Paige even managed to pull this off when it clicks. She narrows her eyes. “Paige.”

Paige shrugs, looking way too pleased with herself. “I called in a favor.”

Azzi just stares at her before shaking her head, a slow smile spreading across her lips. “You’re ridiculous.”

Paige just grins harder. “You love it.”

Azzi doesn’t even argue—just leans down, cups Paige’s face, and kisses her.

Paige’s hands rest on Azzi’s waist, her thumbs absentmindedly brushing over the fabric of her shorts. The ocean breeze is warm, and the soft hum of the bar’s music lingers in the air. Azzi’s lips are still curled into that stupid, lovesick smile, and Paige swears it’s her new favorite thing.

“I love your smile,” Paige murmurs, tilting her head as she watches Azzi like she’s the only thing that matters.

Azzi grins, pressing her forehead against Paige’s. “I love your smile.”

Paige smirks. “I love your eyes.”

Azzi’s nose scrunches up. “I love your eyes.”

Paige raises an eyebrow. “I love your silly little mind.”

Azzi laughs, poking Paige’s cheek. “I love your silly little mind.”

Paige leans in slightly, voice dropping playfully. “I miss shots all the time.”

Azzi gasps, pulling back dramatically. “Do you really?”

Paige bursts out laughing, her grip tightening around Azzi’s waist. “No, babe, I’m a bucket.” And before Azzi can roll her eyes, Paige closes the gap, kissing her slow and easy, like she has all the time in the world.

They stay like that for a few moments—Azzi’s fingers curling into Paige’s hoodie, Paige’s hands firm on Azzi’s waist—until Paige pulls back just enough to murmur, “Alright, we gotta sleep.”

Azzi groans, resting her forehead against Paige’s chest. “Ugh, why? We could just stay here forever. Be beach people. Collect shells. Live off coconuts.”

Paige snorts. “Babe, we’d last maybe two days before you start missing your hair products and I start complaining about sand in places sand should not be.”

Azzi sighs dramatically. “Fine.” Then she tugs at Paige’s hand, pulling her up.

As they start walking back, Azzi glances at the still-glowing campfire and nudges Paige. “Uh, shouldn’t we put that out?”

Paige glances over her shoulder. “I mean… I don’t think sand can catch on fire?”

Azzi blinks. “If we end up on the news tomorrow, this is on you.”

Paige grins. “As long as they get my good side in the mugshot.”

Azzi shakes her head, laughing as she laces their fingers together. They walk back to the hotel, the cool sand between their toes, the sound of waves crashing in the distance. The night air is thick with the scent of salt and smoke, and Paige swears she’s never felt more at home.

━ As they step into the elevator, the air is thick with exhaustion, but it’s the good kind—the type that makes their limbs heavy but their hearts full. The doors close with a soft chime, and the quiet settles in. Not awkward, not tense. Just theirs. Paige leans back against the elevator wall, running a hand through her hair as Azzi leans into her side, resting her head against Paige’s shoulder. Neither of them says anything, and they don’t need to.

When the elevator dings, they step into the hallway, their footsteps light against the plush carpet. Paige fumbles with the keycard, nearly swiping it upside down. Azzi watches with an amused smirk.

"You got it, genius?"

"Shut up," Paige mutters, finally unlocking the door.

Inside, chaos. The room is dimly lit, but even in the soft glow of the nightstand lamp, it’s clear that their friends are in shambles.

Nika is sprawled out on one of the beds, phone still clutched in her hand, snoring loud enough to shake the walls. Aubrey is half on the couch, one leg dangling off like she lost a battle with gravity mid-sleep. Aaliyah is the only one who actually looks peaceful, wrapped up like a burrito, sleeping as if she’s in a coma.

Paige nudges Azzi and whispers, “Yo, why does Aaliyah look like she’s getting the best sleep of her life while Nika sounds like she’s inhaling a whole thunderstorm?”

Azzi stifles a laugh. “And why is Aubrey built like one of those ragdoll physics glitches in a video game?”

They exchange a look before shaking their heads, quietly closing the door behind them, careful not to wake the wreckage of their friend group.

Bathroom time.

They move in sync, like a routine they’ve done a hundred times before. Paige grabs her toothbrush, Azzi grabs hers, and they start brushing in front of the mirror. The bathroom light is soft, casting a warm glow over their faces, both a little sun-kissed from the day.

Azzi finishes first, rinses her mouth, and then reaches for the soap on the counter. And of course, in a move so obvious it’s almost criminal, she pushes her ass—her azzi—back against Paige’s hip in a way that is definitely not accidental.

Paige chokes on her toothpaste.

"Are you trying to kill me, woman?" Paige splutters, nearly dropping her toothbrush into the sink.

Azzi hums innocently, doesn’t say a word. She just lifts her arms and, with the slowest, most deliberate movements, starts undoing the knot on her crop-top.

Paige freezes. Oh. Oh, we’re doing this tonight?

Azzi lets the fabric slip off her shoulders, down her arms, before it pools at her feet, leaving her in just her underwear—the black ones, the ones Paige has definitely noticed before—and a delicate bra with lace detailing.

Paige is going through it.

Her brain short-circuits, her mouth suddenly dry despite the fact that she just brushed her teeth. She gulps, gripping the counter like it might anchor her back to reality.

Azzi bites her lip, tilts her head, and finally looks at Paige. “You good?”

Paige nods way too fast. “Mhm. Yep. Totally fine.”

Azzi smirks, stepping closer. “Those shorts look good on you,” she says, low and teasing, like she knows exactly what she’s doing.

Paige manages a crooked grin, still gripping the counter for dear life.

And somewhere in the back of her mind, she thanks their coach for telling her that these shorts have some kind of effect on women.

Because damn.

━ Paige tugs on a plain white t-shirt, the fabric soft and a little oversized, hanging loose over her frame. She pulls on a pair of worn-in sweatpants, the kind that have survived countless practices and late-night hangouts, then runs a hand through her messy bun before rinsing her face. The cold water jolts her slightly, a small reset after the heat of the day (and, well, Azzi).

When she steps out of the bathroom, Azzi is already curled up in bed, the sheets half-draped over her body, her hair splayed across the pillow like some kind of art. Paige slips under the covers without hesitation, shifting closer until she can press her lips to the soft skin of Azzi’s back.

One.

Then another, lower this time.

And another.

Her fingers trace absentminded patterns along Azzi’s thigh, but before she can get too far, Azzi lets out a breathy laugh and grabs Paige’s wandering hand.

"Baby, we really can’t. They’re literally a foot away from us."

Paige exhales dramatically, resting her forehead against Azzi’s shoulder. "Okay, okay, but hear me out—what if I put tape over your mouth?"

Azzi turns her head so fast, giving Paige the most are you serious look of all time.

"You're actually insane," she mutters before leaning in to kiss her, slow and deliberate, making sure Paige really understands that the answer is no.

Paige sighs, but she’s smiling, wrapping an arm around Azzi’s waist and pulling her closer. She lets her fingers graze Azzi’s ribs just to be annoying.

Azzi yelps, swatting Paige’s hand away. "Stoppp."

Paige holds up her hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. No funny business. Just sleep."

Azzi eyes her skeptically, but Paige just nudges her. "Turn around."

Azzi does, rolling so they’re face-to-face, inches apart in the dim light.

"Goodnight, Az," Paige murmurs.

Azzi hums. "Goodnight, Paigey."

A beat of quiet. Then, softer: "I love you. So much."

Paige grins. "I love you more."

Azzi groans. "Stop."

Paige laughs but doesn’t push it. Instead, she just pulls Azzi in closer, feeling the way Azzi naturally fits against her, how easily she curls into Paige’s chest, like it’s home.

As Azzi's breaths grow slower, Paige carefully reaches for her phone. She types out a quick text to Azzi’s parents:

Paige: we’re going to sleep now, love you guys

She sets her phone down, glancing at Azzi, taking in the peaceful rise and fall of her shoulders.

"Goodnight, beautiful," she whispers, pressing a soft kiss to Azzi’s forehead.

As she turns off the lamp, the room settles into stillness, filled with warmth, love, and the quiet comfort of knowing they’re exactly where they’re supposed to be.

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