#net full stack developer

[firstbitsolutions]

Which is better full stack development or testing?

Full Stack Development vs Software Testing: Which Career Path is Right for You?

In today’s rapidly evolving IT industry, choosing the right career path can be challenging. Two popular options are Full Stack Development and Software Testing. Both of these fields offer unique opportunities and cater to different skill sets, making it essential to assess which one aligns better with your interests, goals, and long-term career aspirations.

At FirstBit Solutions, we take pride in offering a premium quality of teaching, with expert-led courses designed to provide real-world skills. Our goal is to help you know, no matter which path you choose. Whether you’re interested in development or testing, our 100% unlimited placement call guarantee ensures ample job opportunities. In this answer, we’ll explore both career paths to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Full Stack Development

What is Full Stack Development?

Full Stack Development involves working on both the front-end (client-side) and back-end (server-side) of web applications. Full stack developers handle everything from designing the user interface (UI) to managing databases and server logic. They are versatile professionals who can oversee a project from start to finish.

Key Skills Required for Full Stack Development

To become a full stack developer, you need a diverse set of skills, including:

Front-End Technologies: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are the fundamental building blocks of web development. Additionally, proficiency in front-end frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js is crucial for creating dynamic and responsive web interfaces.

Back-End Technologies: Understanding back-end programming languages like Node.js, Python, Ruby, Java, or PHP is essential for server-side development. Additionally, knowledge of frameworks like Express.js, Django, or Spring can help streamline development processes.

Databases: Full stack developers must know how to work with both SQL (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) and NoSQL (e.g., MongoDB) databases.

Version Control and Collaboration: Proficiency in tools like Git, GitHub, and agile methodologies is important for working in a collaborative environment.

Job Opportunities in Full Stack Development

Full stack developers are in high demand due to their versatility. Companies often prefer professionals who can handle both front-end and back-end tasks, making them valuable assets in any development team. Full stack developers can work in:

Web Development

Mobile App Development

Enterprise Solutions

Startup Ecosystems

The flexibility to work on multiple layers of development opens doors to various career opportunities. Moreover, the continuous rise of startups and digital transformation initiatives has further fueled the demand for full stack developers.

Benefits of Choosing Full Stack Development

High Demand: The need for full stack developers is constantly increasing across industries, making it a lucrative career choice.

Versatility: You can switch between front-end and back-end tasks, giving you a holistic understanding of how applications work.

Creativity: If you enjoy creating visually appealing interfaces while also solving complex back-end problems, full stack development allows you to engage both creative and logical thinking.

Salary: Full stack developers typically enjoy competitive salaries due to their wide skill set and ability to handle various tasks.

Understanding Software Testing

What is Software Testing?

Software Testing is the process of evaluating and verifying that a software product or application is free of defects, meets specified requirements, and functions as expected. Testers ensure the quality and reliability of software by conducting both manual and automated tests.

Key Skills Required for Software Testing

To succeed in software testing, you need to develop the following skills:

Manual Testing: Knowledge of testing techniques, understanding different testing types (unit, integration, system, UAT, etc.), and the ability to write test cases are fundamental for manual testing.

Automated Testing: Proficiency in tools like Selenium, JUnit, TestNG, or Cucumber is essential for automating repetitive test scenarios and improving efficiency.

Attention to Detail: Testers must have a keen eye for identifying potential issues, bugs, and vulnerabilities in software systems.

Scripting Knowledge: Basic programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript are necessary to write and maintain test scripts for automated testing.

Job Opportunities in Software Testing

As the demand for high-quality software increases, so does the need for skilled software testers. Companies are investing heavily in testing to ensure that their products perform optimally in the competitive market. Software testers can work in:

Manual Testing

Automated Testing

Quality Assurance (QA) Engineering

Test Automation Development

With the rise of Agile and DevOps methodologies, the role of testers has become even more critical. Continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines rely on automated testing to deliver reliable software faster.

Benefits of Choosing Software Testing

Job Security: With software quality being paramount, skilled testers are in high demand, and the need for testing professionals will only continue to grow.

Quality Assurance: If you have a knack for perfection and enjoy ensuring that software works flawlessly, testing could be a satisfying career.

Automated Testing Growth: The shift toward automation opens up new opportunities for testers to specialize in test automation tools and frameworks, which are essential for faster releases.

Flexibility: Testing provides opportunities to work across different domains and industries, as almost every software product requires thorough testing.

Full Stack Development vs Software Testing: A Comparative Analysis

Let’s break down the major factors that could influence your decision:

Factors

Full Stack Development

Software Testing

Skills

Proficiency in front-end and back-end technologies, databases

Manual and automated testing, attention to detail, scripting

Creativity

High – involves creating and designing both UI and logic

Moderate – focuses on improving software through testing and validation

Job Roles

Web Developer, Full Stack Engineer, Mobile App Developer

QA Engineer, Test Automation Engineer, Software Tester

Career Growth

Opportunities to transition into senior roles like CTO or Solution Architect

Growth towards roles in automation and quality management

Salary

Competitive with wide-ranging opportunities

Competitive, with automation testers in higher demand

Demand

High demand due to increasing digitalization and web-based applications

Consistently high, especially in Agile/DevOps environments

Learning Curve

Steep – requires mastering multiple languages and technologies

Moderate – requires a focus on testing tools, techniques, and automation

Why Choose FirstBit Solutions for Full Stack Development or Software Testing?

At FirstBit Solutions, we provide comprehensive training in both full stack development and software testing. Our experienced faculty ensures that you gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge in the field of your choice. Our 100% unlimited placement call guarantee ensures that you have ample opportunities to land your dream job, no matter which course you pursue. Here’s why FirstBit is your ideal training partner:

Expert Trainers: Learn from industry veterans with years of experience in development and testing.

Real-World Projects: Work on real-world projects that simulate industry scenarios, providing you with the practical experience needed to excel.

Job Assistance: Our robust placement support ensures you have access to job openings with top companies.

Flexible Learning: Choose from online and offline batch options to fit your schedule.

Conclusion: Which Career Path is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between full stack development and software testing comes down to your personal interests, skills, and career aspirations. If you’re someone who enjoys building applications from the ground up, full stack development might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you take satisfaction in ensuring that software is of the highest quality, software testing could be your calling.

At FirstBit Solutions, we provide top-notch training in both fields, allowing you to pursue your passion and build a successful career in the IT industry. With our industry-aligned curriculum, expert guidance, and 100% placement call guarantee, your future is in good hands.

So, what are you waiting for? Choose the course that excites you and start your journey toward a rewarding career today!

[sensationsoftwaresolutions]

Hire Full Stack Developers for Seamless Solutions | Sensation Solutions

Looking to hire full stack developers for your business? Sensation Solutions offers top-notch full stack developers with expertise in front-end and back-end technologies. Our skilled developers deliver seamless solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal functionality, performance, and user experience. With Sensation Solutions, you can build robust web applications, scalable mobile apps, and innovative software solutions. Get in touch today and hire our dedicated full stack developers to enhance your development projects and drive your business forward.

[gnstech-blog]

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Are you dreaming of a rewarding career in IT but worried about expensive course fees? GNS Technologies in Pune has a game-changing solution for aspiring professionals: Pay After Placement courses in Network Engineering, System Engineering, and Full Stack .NET Development.

Why Choose GNS Technologies?

At GNS Technologies, we believe that financial constraints should never be a roadblock to quality education. Our Pay After Placement model ensures you receive expert training first—and pay only after you get placed.

Whether you want to become a Network Engineer, System Engineer, or a Full Stack .NET Developer, our industry-focused training programs are designed to prepare you for real-world success.

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Gain practical experience in full-stack .NET development with our expert trainers. https://www.qisacademy.com/course/net-core-full-stack-development

[techentry]

.NET Full Stack Development AI + IoT Integrated Course | TechEntry

Join the best DotNet Full Stack Development AI and IoT Integrated Course in 2025. Learn DotNet Core, become a Full Stack Developer, and build advanced web applications with TechEntry.

Why Settle for Just Full Stack Development? Become an AI Full Stack Engineer!

Advance your skills with our AI-driven Full Stack . NET Development course, where you'll seamlessly integrate cutting-edge machine learning technologies with the .NET framework to build sophisticated, data-centric web applications.

Kickstart Your Development Journey!

Frontend Development

React: Build Dynamic, Modern Web Experiences:

What is Web?

Markup with HTML & JSX

Flexbox, Grid & Responsiveness

Bootstrap Layouts & Components

Frontend UI Framework

Core JavaScript & Object Orientation

Async JS promises, async/await

DOM & Events

Event Bubbling & Delegation

Ajax, Axios & fetch API

Functional React Components

Props & State Management

Dynamic Component Styling

Functions as Props

Hooks in React: useState, useEffect

Material UI

Custom Hooks

Supplement: Redux & Redux Toolkit

Version Control: Git & Github

Angular: Master a Full-Featured Framework:

What is Web?

Markup with HTML & Angular Templates

Flexbox, Grid & Responsiveness

Angular Material Layouts & Components

Core JavaScript & TypeScript

Asynchronous Programming Promises, Observables, and RxJS

DOM Manipulation & Events

Event Binding & Event Bubbling

HTTP Client, Ajax, Axios & Fetch API

Angular Components

Input & Output Property Binding

Dynamic Component Styling

Services & Dependency Injection

Angular Directives (Structural & Attribute)

Routing & Navigation

Reactive Forms & Template-driven Forms

State Management with NgRx

Custom Pipes & Directives

Version Control: Git & GitHub

Backend

.NET

Introduction to C#

What is C#?

Setting Up a C# Development Environment

Basic Syntax and Data Types in C#

Control Structures: If Statements, Loops

Methods and Parameters

Object-Oriented Programming Concepts

Classes and Objects

Inheritance and Polymorphism

Interfaces and Abstract Classes

Exception Handling in C#

Working with Collections: Arrays, Lists, Dictionaries

Introduction to .NET

Overview of .NET Framework and .NET Core

Differences Between .NET Framework and .NET Core

Understanding Networking and HTTP Basics

REST API Overview

ASP.NET Core Development

Creating a Basic ASP.NET Core Web API Project

Project Structure and Configuration in ASP.NET Core

Routing and URL Patterns in ASP.NET Core

Handling HTTP Requests and Responses

Model Binding and Validation

JSON Serialization and Deserialization

Using Razor Views for HTML Rendering

API Development with ASP.NET Core

CRUD API Creation and RESTful Services

Entity Framework Core Overview

CRUD Operations with Entity Framework Core

Database Connection Setup in ASP.NET Core

Querying and Data Handling with LINQ

User Authentication and Security

Advanced API Concepts

Pagination, Filtering, and Sorting

Caching Techniques for Performance Improvement

Rate Limiting and Security Practices

Logging and Exception Handling in ASP.NET Core

Deployment and Best Practices

Deployment of ASP.NET Core Applications

Best Practices for .NET Development

User Authentication Basics in ASP.NET Core

Implementing JSON Web Tokens (JWT) for Security

Role-Based Access Control in ASP.NET Core

Database

MongoDB (NoSQL)

Introduction to NoSQL and MongoDB

Understanding Collections and Documents

Basic CRUD Operations in MongoDB

MongoDB Query Language (MQL) Basics

Inserting, Finding, Updating, and Deleting Documents

Using Filters and Projections in Queries

Understanding Data Types in MongoDB

Indexing Basics in MongoDB

Setting Up a Simple MongoDB Database (e.g., MongoDB Atlas)

Connecting to MongoDB from a Simple Application

Basic Data Entry and Querying with MongoDB Compass

Data Modeling in MongoDB: Embedding vs. Referencing

Overview of Aggregation Framework in MongoDB

SQL

Introduction to SQL (Structured Query Language)

Basic CRUD Operations: Create, Read, Update, Delete

Understanding Tables, Rows, and Columns

Primary Keys and Unique Constraints

Simple SQL Queries: SELECT, WHERE, and ORDER BY

Filtering Data with Conditions

Using Aggregate Functions: COUNT, SUM, AVG

Grouping Data with GROUP BY

Basic Joins: Combining Tables (INNER JOIN)

Data Types in SQL (e.g., INT, VARCHAR, DATE)

Setting Up a Simple SQL Database (e.g., SQLite or MySQL)

Connecting to a SQL Database from a Simple Application

Basic Data Entry and Querying with a GUI Tool

Data Validation Basics

Overview of Transactions and ACID Properties

AI and IoT

AI & IoT Development with .NET

Introduction to AI Concepts

Getting Started with .NET for AI

Machine Learning Essentials with ML.NET

Introduction to Deep Learning

Practical AI Project Ideas

Introduction to IoT Fundamentals

Building IoT Solutions with .NET

IoT Communication Protocols

Building IoT Applications and Dashboards

IoT Security Basics

You're Ready to Become an IT Professional

Master the Skills and Launch Your Career: Upon mastering Frontend, Backend, Database, AI, and IoT, you’ll be fully equipped to launch your IT career confidently.

TechEntry Highlights

In-Office Experience: Engage in a collaborative in-office environment (on-site) for hands-on learning and networking.

Learn from Software Engineers: Gain insights from experienced engineers actively working in the industry today.

Career Guidance: Receive tailored advice on career paths and job opportunities in tech.

Industry Trends: Explore the latest software development trends to stay ahead in your field.

1-on-1 Mentorship: Access personalized mentorship for project feedback and ongoing professional development.

Hands-On Projects: Work on real-world projects to apply your skills and build your portfolio.

What You Gain:

A deep understanding of Front-end React.js and Back-end .NET.

Practical skills in AI tools and IoT integration.

The confidence to work on real-time solutions and prepare for high-paying jobs.

The skills that are in demand across the tech industry, ensuring you're not just employable but sought-after.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.) What is C#, what are its main features, and why is it a good choice for software development?

A: Ans: C# is a versatile and powerful programming language developed by Microsoft. It's widely used for web, desktop, and game development, offering numerous career opportunities in software development.

Q: Why should I learn Angular?

A: Angular is a powerful framework for building dynamic, single-page web applications. Learning Angular can enhance your ability to create scalable and maintainable web applications and is highly valued in the job market.

Q: What is .NET?

A: .NET is a comprehensive software development framework created by Microsoft. It supports the development and running of applications on Windows, macOS, and Linux. With .NET, you can build web, mobile, desktop, gaming, and IoT applications.

Q: What are the prerequisites for learning Angular?

A: A basic understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is recommended before learning Angular.

Q: What are the benefits of learning .NET?

A: Learning .NET offers several benefits, including cross-platform development, a large community and support, a robust framework, and seamless integration with other Microsoft services and technologies.

Q: What is React?

A: React is a JavaScript library developed by Facebook for building user interfaces, particularly for single-page applications where you need a dynamic and interactive user experience. It allows developers to create large web applications that can change data without reloading the page.

Q: Is C# suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, C# is an excellent language for beginners due to its simplicity and readability. It has a rich set of libraries and tools that make development easier, and it's well-documented, which helps new learners quickly grasp the concepts.

Q: Why use React?

A: React offers reusable components, fast performance through virtual DOM, one-way data flow, and a large community, making it ideal for developing dynamic user interfaces.

Q: What kind of projects can I create with C# and .NET?

A: With C# and .NET, you can create a wide range of projects, such as web applications, mobile apps (using Xamarin), desktop applications (Windows Forms, WPF), games (using Unity), cloud-based applications, and IoT solutions.

Q: What is JSX?

A: JSX is a syntax extension of JavaScript used to create React elements, which are rendered to the React DOM. React components are written in JSX, and JavaScript expressions within JSX are embedded using curly braces {}.

For more, visit our website:

https://techentry.in/courses/dotnet-fullstack-developer-course

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Top .NET Development Company | Custom .NET Solutions for Enterprises

Looking for a .NET development company? We provide full-stack .NET app development services using Microsoft’s .NET technology. From custom .NET solutions to enterprise-level ASP.NET applications, we deliver scalable and innovative software to meet your business needs. Visit now to know more.

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When hiring a dedicated ASP.NET developer, it’s essential to assess their skills effectively. Look into their experience with ASP.NET and related technologies, test their problem-solving abilities, and evaluate their understanding of best practices and design patterns. Don’t forget to check their past projects and references. Communication skills are also key. Get the right developer for your project and drive success! 🚀💻

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Tech Active Guide: Nurturing Connectivity with Remote Team Building

Explore virtual team building and remote work, uncovering benefits, challenges, and strategic initiatives for fostering collaboration. Visit us to know more.

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Elevating Web Experiences: Advanced Techniques for Combining React with C#

In the ever-evolving landscape of web development, the combination of React and C# emerges as a powerful duo, offering a comprehensive solution for building high-performance and scalable web applications. React, renowned for its efficiency in building dynamic user interfaces, pairs seamlessly with the robust backend capabilities of C#. This synergy unlocks new potentials in web development,…

[scholarhat01]

Unleashing the Power of Full Stack .NET Development in 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of software development, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. In 2023, the demand for Full Stack .NET Developers is higher than ever. In this blog post, we'll explore the myriad benefits of Full Stack .NET Development and how it can shape your career for the better. Whether you're an experienced developer or someone just starting in the field, this comprehensive guide will show you why Full Stack .NET Development is the path to success.

What is Full Stack .NET Development?

Before we dive into the benefits, let's clarify what Full Stack .NET Development is. Full Stack .NET Development encompasses both the front-end and back-end development of web applications using Microsoft's .NET framework. It involves working with technologies like C#, ASP.NET, and various front-end libraries like React or Angular. Full Stack .NET Developers are proficient in building every aspect of a web application, making them highly versatile.

High Demand for Full Stack .NET Developers

The demand for Full Stack .NET Developers has been on the rise for several years, and in 2023, it's showing no signs of slowing down. Companies are seeking professionals who can handle the entire development cycle, from creating user interfaces to managing databases and servers. As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation, Full Stack .NET Developers are invaluable for building scalable, efficient, and secure web applications.

Versatility in Development

One of the key benefits of Full Stack .NET Development is the versatility it offers. Full Stack .NET Developers can seamlessly transition between front-end and back-end tasks. They can design user-friendly interfaces and write efficient server-side code. This versatility streamlines development teams, as Full Stack .NET Developers can take on various roles, reducing the need for multiple specialists.

Improved Collaboration

Full Stack .NET Developers can bridge the gap between front-end and back-end teams. This leads to more effective communication and collaboration within the development process. A Full Stack .NET Developer's ability to understand and work on both ends of a project ensures that the entire team is on the same page, resulting in faster development cycles and higher-quality applications.

Cost-Effective Solutions

In 2023, companies are continually looking for ways to optimize their development processes. Full Stack .NET Developers can be a cost-effective solution, as they are self-sufficient and capable of handling a wide range of tasks. This means businesses can reduce their reliance on specialized developers, resulting in cost savings and increased productivity.

In-Demand Skill Set

If you're considering a career in software development, Full Stack .NET Development should be at the top of your list. The skills required for Full Stack .NET Development are highly sought after by employers. With a Full-Stack .NET Developer Certification for experienced professionals, you'll be equipped with the expertise that's in demand across various industries.

Career Advancement

Full Stack .NET Development opens the door to exciting career opportunities. With the skills and knowledge acquired through certification and practical experience, you can take on leadership roles, project management positions, or even launch your startup. This career path offers a wealth of options and room for growth.

Staying Current with Technology

The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and Full Stack .NET Development ensures that you're well-prepared for these changes. Full Stack .NET Developers are adaptable and can quickly learn and implement new technologies as they emerge. This agility keeps your skills relevant and in-demand.

The Path to Full Stack .NET Certification

If you're an experienced developer looking to embrace Full Stack .NET Development, pursuing a Full-Stack .NET Developer Certification is the way to go. This certification will validate your skills and boost your employability. It provides a structured path to becoming proficient in Full Stack .NET Development, covering everything from front-end technologies to back-end frameworks.

In conclusion, Full Stack .NET Development in 2023 offers a world of opportunities. The demand for skilled professionals is higher than ever, and the versatility and career advancement potential make it an attractive choice. Whether you're an experienced developer looking to expand your skill set or a newcomer to the field, Full Stack .NET Development and a Full-Stack .NET Developer Certification can set you on a path to a successful and fulfilling career in the ever-evolving world of software development. Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of this dynamic and exciting industry!

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Microsoft .Net Full Stack Developer Training

From the information listed above, it’s quite clear that .NET Full Stack Development genuinely holds a lot of importance. As the demand is huge and the grant is low, stepping in this direction will help you do better in this domain.

[womenhoops]

AAU GAME p II

It was game day—and for the first time ever, Azzi was facing Paige in an official matchup.

They’d known each other for years—two, to be exact—but this was their first time squaring off in AAU. Different states, different teams, but the same competitive fire.

Not that Azzi was nervous or anything. Okay, maybe a little. Winning mattered—not just for the scoreboard, but for the bragging rights. So when she spotted Paige during warm-ups, she flashed a quick, confident smile and locked in.

At least, she tried to stay locked in—until the tip-off, when Paige casually strolled over to her side, leaned in, and whispered 

“You look so pretty, Azz. Can’t wait to beat you on the court.” 

Azzi’s eyes rolled so hard she nearly saw the back of her skull, and her stomach did a full somersault. But she wasn’t about to let Paige get in her head. So she hip-checked her, smirked, and shot back: 

“Good luck losing, P.”

The moment the whistle blew, it was war.

Azzi and Paige went at each other like they’d been waiting their whole lives for this—every drive, every shot, every defensive stop charged with something electric. The problem? Azzi’s team couldn’t keep up. Every perfect pass was fumbled. Every set play collapsed. By halftime, she’d already dropped 20 points—and they were still down 15.

Paige noticed.

She wanted to win—badly—but watching Azzi fight so hard, alone, made something twist in her chest. Azzi was having the kind of night players dreamed of, yet the score kept slipping further away.

Paige tightened her defense, face-guarding Azzi as they traded blows.

"Your shooting form is so perfect, Az," Paige teased, sticking to her like a shadow. "Let’s see if you can make it count."

Azzi, breathing hard, shot back, "Keep talking, P. I’ll still drop 40 on you." But she knew that the game was slipping away from her finger tips. 

Their banter was playful, but the tension was real. The crowd buzzed, mesmerized as they went bucket-for-bucket—Paige with the advantage of a stacked team, Azzi with nothing but sheer will. 

The crowd roared as Azzi pulled up from deep - nothing but net. 

Again. And Again. And Again. 

The gymnasium buzzed with electricity as she single-handedly kept her team within striking distance against Paige's powerhouse squad. Every time Azzi scored, the cheers grew louder, the energy more palpable. She wasn't just playing basketball - she was putting on a show, a masterclass in determination against impossible odds.

Paige wiped sweat from her brow, watching as Jason - that obnoxious guy from yesterday who needed to develop a sudden interest in Antarctic exploration - led a new chant: "A-Z-Z-I! Best game! Cutest dimples!" The entire gym picked it up, their voices bouncing off the rafters.

"Seriously?" Paige muttered under her breath, stealing a glance at Azzi, who was trying (and failing) to hide her grin as she backpedaled on defense. That dimpled smile only fueled Paige's competitive fire hotter.

Then came the play that changed everything.

Third quarter. Two minutes left. Paige's team up 28. The game should have been over, but Azzi kept coming, kept fighting. She split the defense with a vicious crossover, driving hard to the basket when-

CRACK.

Paige's teammate - Sarah, a senior with a mean streak and obvious jealousy issues (to be fair, Paige was never her biggest fan, she was not the best player and was definitely selfish which made no sense to a team sport like basketball)  - stepped in late and threw a dirty hip-check that sent Azzi airborne. 

Time seemed to stop as Azzi's body crashed to the hardwood, the sickening thud echoing through the suddenly silent gym.

Paige saw red.

In three long strides, she was in Sarah's face, shoving her backward. "What the actual hell was that?" Paige's voice shook with barely contained rage. "We don't play dirty!"

Sarah smirked, wiping her hands on her shorts. "Someone had to slow her down. She's making us look bad."

"We're up twenty-eight!" Paige's hands balled into fists at her sides. "You're just jealous because-"

"Because what?" Sarah challenged, stepping closer. "Because this whole tournament's in love with her? Including that little boy over there?" She jerked her chin toward Jason, who was looking worried from the stands… 

That girl - that jealous, 18-year-old senior - had just deliberately hurt her best friend. Her Azzi. The one who FaceTimed her every night until they both fell asleep mid-sentence. The one whose dimples appeared even when she was trying to be serious. The one who'd sobbed into Paige's shoulder when Olaf melted in Frozen, whispering "But he was just trying to help Anna" between hiccuping breaths.

And now she was on the ground, clutching her side in pain.

Paige's world narrowed to a single point of white-hot rage. The sounds of the gym faded - the shocked gasps, the concerned murmurs, even the referee's whistle disappeared. All she could see was Sarah's smug face and Azzi's pained expression. Her hands trembled with barely restrained fury as she took another threatening step forward, muscles coiled like a spring-

"Paige."

That voice—Azzi's voice, strained but achingly familiar—sliced through Paige's red haze like dawn breaking through a storm. It had always been her anchor, this connection that transcended distance and circumstance. When they were states apart and Paige's late-night frustration texts came through in all caps. When that careless turnover during the U17 championships nearly cost them everything, and Azzi's quiet "We got this, P" steadied her trembling hands. When narrow-minded whispers about Azzi's skin tone curled through Argentinian gyms like poison smoke, and Paige felt her fists clench until Azzi's fingers laced through hers—wordless, unshakable.

Just one word. Just her name. But it was enough to make the world start turning again.

Azzi was still on the ground, clutching her ribs, but her eyes were locked on Paige. Not the trainers rushing over. Not her own teammates. Paige.

The blonde exhaled sharply, the fight draining from her shoulders as she turned away from Sarah and dropped to one knee beside Azzi. 

"You okay?" The words came out rougher than she intended.

Azzi winced as she tried to sit up. "Oh now you care?" Despite the pain, that trademark smirk played at her lips.

"Shut up," Paige shot back, but there was no heat in it. She slipped an arm behind Azzi's shoulders to help her up. "Can you stand or not?"

Behind them, Sarah's venomous whisper cut through the murmuring crowd: "Unbelievable. Queen Paige bending the rules for her little crush.”

Paige didn't bother turning. Her response came low and dangerous, each word measured like a knife thrust: "It's called sportsmanship. Look it up sometime." Then, barely audible but razor-sharp, she added: "And that's my best friend, you bitch."

Her fingers lingered on Azzi's elbow - a fleeting touch that said everything her words couldn't. The warmth of contact, the unspoken check-in, the silent promise that this wasn't over.

The arena erupted as Azzi waved off the trainer with that stubborn set to her jaw Paige knew so well. When she tested her weight, rolling her ankle with careful precision, that trademark grin flashed - bright enough to make Paige's chest tighten.

"Might wanna leash your attack dog," Azzi teased, eyes glinting with challenge, "before I return the favor."

Paige snorted, the sound equal parts exasperation and reluctant admiration. "Please. Like you'd fight dirty." But her gaze betrayed her, scanning every microexpression on Azzi's face for signs of real pain - the slight tightening around her eyes, the barely-there hitch in her breathing that no one else would notice.

The gym fell into that charged silence unique to crucial free throws. Paige remained rooted, watching with singular focus as Azzi's routine unfolded - two precise dribbles, that steadying exhale Paige had watched her practice a thousand times, then-

Swish.

The explosion of sound was deafening. Jason and his cronies leapt up like puppets on strings, their obnoxious cheers grating on Paige's nerves. (She hated how his eyes tracked Azzi's every move, hated how he reduced her best friend to "hot" when Azzi was so much more - and if that realization made Paige's stomach twist, well, that was nobody's business.)

But all that noise faded to static as Paige watched Azzi's face transform - the way her eyes lit up with that pure, unfiltered joy that made the scoreboard irrelevant, the pain meaningless, the whole world narrow to this moment.

The whistle's shrill note brought them back. As they retreated on defense, Paige caught Azzi's eye across the court and mouthed two familiar words - their words: "Show off."

And when Azzi grinned back - that full, dimpled smile that had been Paige's favorite since they were fourteen - it felt like winning something far more important than a game.

By the fourth quarter, both Azzi and Paige were benched—each on their own team’s sidelines, but their eyes kept finding each other across the court. Paige couldn’t help but watch in awe. Even down by 32, Azzi was still leading. Leaning forward on the bench, calling out plays, clapping for teammates who—let’s be real—probably shouldn’t have been playing competitive basketball. But that was Azzi. Relentless, even in a lost cause.

And when one of her drawn-up plays actually worked, her smile lit up the entire gym. Paige had seen that grin a thousand times—during late-night snack runs where Paige sad she would drive azzi to get her favorite type of ice cream, when they’d FaceTimed each other after stupid fights—but it still hit her the same way every time. 

Like sunlight breaking through clouds.

When the final buzzer sounded, Paige’s team won by 29. But as the players lined up for post-game handshakes, Azzi tugged Paige closer by the jersey, her lips brushing Paige’s ear.

"You won," she whispered, breath warm against Paige’s skin. "But I still dropped more points than you."

Paige’s stomach did a backflip. She should’ve fired back with some cocky remark, should’ve rolled her eyes and called Azzi a sore loser. But instead, she just smiled—genuine, unguarded, proud. Because damn it, Azzi had been unreal tonight.

Then Sarah ruined the moment. Again. 

When Azzi extended her fist for the customary bump, Sarah pretended not to see, walking right past her with a dismissive scoff.  And, Paige’s blood went from warm to boiling in half a second.

Before Azzi could even react, Paige grabbed Sarah’s wrist, yanking her back hard enough to make her stumble. 

"What the hell is your problem?" Paige hissed, voice low and dangerous.

Sarah jerked her arm free, glaring. "You’re really picking her over your own team?"

"I’m picking respect over whatever petty bullshit you’re on," Paige shot back. "Apologize. Now."

The gym had gone eerily quiet. Even the refs were watching.

Sarah’s jaw tightened, but under Paige’s furious stare, she finally muttered, "Whatever. Sorry, I guess."

Azzi, still standing there, just arched a brow. "Wow. That was almost convincing."

Paige bit back a laugh.

As Sarah stormed off, Paige felt Azzi's shoulder bump against hers, their fingers brushing in that silent language only they understood. The contact lasted barely a second, but it carried volumes - admiration, solidarity, something warmer than either would name.

Then came the Fudd family, cutting through the dispersing crowd like sunshine breaking through storm clouds. "My two favorite warriors!" Azzi's mom beamed, already raising her phone. "We need pictures - this was historic!"

Azzi groaned but didn't resist as her parents pulled them together. "Mom, we just got our butts kicked-"

"Nonsense!" Her father interjected, throwing an arm around both girls. His coaching instincts surfaced as he addressed Paige: "You played lights out, kid, but..." He tapped his temple knowingly. "Third quarter? Should've forced left more often. Right side was overplaying you all night."

Paige felt her cheeks flush - not from criticism, but from how effortlessly he included her in his basketball wisdom. The way he analyzed her game with the same attentive care he gave Azzi.

"You're absolutely right, Coach," she admitted, rubbing her neck. "I got too comfortable with the cross-court passes."

Azzi's dad grinned, squeezing them tighter. "Ah, but when you two matched up?" He whistled. "Best basketball I've seen all season. Even if someone-" he pinched Azzi's cheek, "-needs to work on her help defense."

"Dad!" Azzi swatted his hand away, but her protest dissolved into laughter when Paige joined in teasing her.

As camera flashes popped around them, Paige caught herself leaning into this moment - into the easy way Azzi's parents folded her into their family orbit. The way Mrs. Fudd fixed Paige's sweaty ponytail without asking, the way Coach Fudd's advice carried both challenge and belief.

Azzi met her eyes over their posed smiles, and in that glance Paige saw understanding. This family wasn't just becoming important to her. They were becoming hers.

"Mom, where are we eating? We’re starving."

Azzi’s voice was half-whine, half-laugh as she tugged at her jersey, still damp with sweat from the game.

Miss Fudd smiled sweetly at Paige—a smile that carried just a little too much knowing amusement—then turned to Azzi.

"Well," she said, tapping her chin, "Paige actually asked me earlier if she could take you out tonight. Just the two of you."

Azzi’s head whipped toward Paige so fast her braids smacked her own cheek. "You—what?"

Paige’s face burned. She hadn’t expected Mrs. Fudd to just announce it like that. She’d imagined pulling Azzi aside later, playing it cool—Hey, there’s this place I found, you wanna check it out?—not having it laid bare in front of her entire family.

“I mean, yeah,” Paige muttered, suddenly very interested in retying her shoelaces. “If you want. No big deal.” She kept her voice casual, but the words came out too fast. “Just thought since it’s our last night, and I’m flying back to Minnesota after lunch tomorrow, and we don’t have a game—”

Azzi’s eyes narrowed, stoping Paige’s resembling to remember that Paige had asked her parents permission. "You asked my mom? Like, formally?"

"I was being polite," Paige shot back, defensive. "Unlike some people who just show up at my house unannounced and eat all my cereal."

Azzi opened her mouth to retaliate, but her mom cut in, laughter in her voice. "It’s settled, then. You two go have fun. But, Azzi—" She held up a warning finger. "Phone on. Loud. And back by eleven."

"Mom, we’re not twelve," Azzi groaned.

"And yet," her dad chimed in without looking up from his clipboard, "somehow, you still forget to text when you're running late."

Paige bit back a grin. Then she leaned in, her lips brushing the shell of Azzi's ear as she whispered: "Go get ready, princess. I'll meet you in an hour at our hotel lobby."

The reaction was instant—Azzi’s breath hitched, her neck flushing pink where Paige’s words had touched skin. (Totally normal best friend behavior, she told herself.)

"Bold of you to assume I'm saying yes," she muttered, but the way her fingers twitched against her gym bag strap betrayed her.

Paige smirked, stepping back. “You will. And wear something white.” A pause, just long enough to make Azzi’s pulse jump. “So we can match.”

And of course—Azzi did.

——

Paige had changed four times before settling on dark jeans and a crisp white button-down, sleeves rolled to her elbows. Casual but put-together—the perfect balance between I didn’t try too hard and I absolutely did, but I’ll deny it if you call me out.

(Which Azzi always did.)

Meanwhile, Azzi stood frozen in her bathroom, clutching a tube of mascara like it might bite her. Since when do you care this much? She’d swiped on a little makeup—just enough to make her eyes pop, just subtle enough to play it off as habit. The sweater was fine. The jeans were fine. Everything’s fine.

The elevator dinged, and there she was—soft blue sweater clinging to her shoulders, and white jeans that should’ve been illegal, hair still damp and curling at the ends where it brushed her collarbones. Paige’s throat went dry.

"You’re late," Paige said, checking her watch with exaggerated annoyance.

Azzi rolled her eyes, but the corner of her mouth tugged up. "By two minutes. And you’re staring."

"Am not."

"You literally haven’t blinked since the doors opened." Azzi stepped closer, tilting her head. Was the mascara too much? Did she notice? "What, do I have something on my face?"

Yes. Your face. Which is the problem. 

Paige swallowed hard. "Shut up and let’s go. We’re gonna miss our reservation."

Azzi grinned. "Oh, so it’s a reservation now? Not just ‘grabbing food’ like you said?"

"I hate you."

"You love me."

Paige’s chest tightened. Yeah. That’s the issue.

The walk to the place was quick, and in silence. Both teenagers immerse in their own thoughts. Paige had scouted this place carefully—a small Italian spot with dim lighting, great pasta, and, most importantly, atmosphere. Quiet enough to talk, but not so fancy they’d feel awkward. Just… intimate.

Not a date. Best friends can have intimate dinners.

The second they walked in, Azzi’s eyebrows shot up. "Ohhh. This kind of dinner."

Paige’s stomach dropped. "What’s that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing." Azzi smirked, trailing a finger over the white tablecloth. "Just… candles? Fancy napkins? You reserved this, didn’t you?"

Paige had. She’d also requested the corner booth and may or may not have Googled best date spots in the city before remembering—not a date.

"Shut up," she muttered, sliding into the seat. "I just didn’t wanna end up at some chain place with your dad’s playbook spread over the table."

Azzi laughed, leaning forward. "You planned this. Admit it."

Paige’s pulse spiked. Azzi was too close, her grin too knowing. "Yeah, well," she deflected, "someone had to. You’d have dragged me to the first smoothie place you saw."

"Damn right." Azzi picked up the menu, then paused. "P… there’s nothing here you’d eat. No fries. No plain chicken tenders. Just… vegetables." She squinted. "Did you pick this place for me?"

Paige’s ears burned. "No. I just… wanted to try something new."

Azzi’s expression softened. "You hate new."

"I don’t hate it."

"You once cried over a menu because they ‘changed the fries.’"

"That was one time—"

Azzi reached across the table, her fingers brushing Paige’s wrist. "Hey." Her voice was quieter now, teasing but tender. "You could’ve just said you wanted to take me somewhere nice."

Paige’s breath caught. Because it’s you. Because I’d sit through a hundred vegetable plates if it meant watching you smile like this. Instead, she shrugged. "Figured you deserved a break from my culinary crimes."

Azzi squeezed her hand. "You’re ridiculous."

Their conversation flowed as easily as it always did—like they were picking up right where they’d left off, like no time had passed at all. Dinner was… perfect. And they’d missed each other so much - being best friends in different states was not for the weak. 

They argued over breadsticks (Paige dunked hers in ranch; which the brunette called it a "culinary crime"). They debated the best NBA players which was not a big discussion given that Azzi had very limites knowledge on the matter (Paige fought hard for Luka; Azzi, predictably, Steph). 

They laughed so hard at one point that the couple next to them shot them dirty looks, and Azzi had to press her napkin to her mouth to stifle a snort. And the blonde found that the most cute thing ever, but she would deny that with her life. 

But then, as the waiter cleared their plates, Azzi grew quiet. She traced the rim of her glass, her voice softer when she finally spoke.

"You didn’t have to do this, you know."

Paige frowned. "Do what, Az?”

"All of it." Azzi gestured between them. "The dinner, the… whatever this is. We could have done something casual. Your company Is more than enough, P.”

Paige’s chest tightened. 

"I didn’t want to," she said instead.

Azzi looked up, holding her gaze. "Why not?"

The air between them crackled. Paige’s mouth went dry. She was not quite sure of the “why”. 

But before she could answer, Azzi’s phone buzzed loudly on the table.

MOM: 30 minutes, Azzi. Don’t make me come find you.

The spell broke. Azzi groaned, flopping back in her seat. "Ugh, kill me."

Paige exhaled, equal parts relieved and frustrated.  "

C’mon, I will ask for the check, and we can still make it on time. Don’t worry princess.“ 

When the check came, Azzi immediately reached for her wallet. "Split it?"

The blonde snatched the bill before the younger girl’s fingers could graze it. "Nope."

Azzi rolled her eyes. "Come on, P. I ate half your breadsticks. Least I can do is—"

"I invited you," Paige said firmly, sliding her card into the leather folder before Azzi could protest. "My treat."

Azzi opened her mouth to argue—then stopped.

There was something in the way Paige said it. Not just stubborn, but certain. Like it mattered to her. Like this—taking care of Azzi, even in this small way—was something she wanted to do.

A strange warmth fluttered in Azzi’s chest.

Oh.

She’d always teased Paige for being competitive, but this wasn’t that. This was… intentional. The way Paige had picked the restaurant knowing Azzi would love it. The way she’d insisted on walking her back. The way she was looking at her now—chin tilted, eyes soft—like Azzi was something precious.

You do this a lot, don’t you?

The realization hit her like a delayed pass, right to the ribs.

Paige always took care of her.

The extra Gatorade in her bag when Azzi forgot hers. The way she’d text "You good?" after a tough loss. The time she’d had sent a care package all the way from Minessota because Azzi had mentioned feeling sick during a FaceTime. All these little things, piling up.

And Azzi—oblivious, glitchy Azzi—had never let herself think about why it made her stomach swoop.

So, she decided to be a little bold:  "You never answered my question," Azzi said lightly.

"What question?"

"Mean Streets," Azzi teased, bumping her shoulder. "You still owe me that movie night."

Paige’s pulse jumped. You have no idea what you do to me. "Yeah, well. Maybe next time we’re in the same hotel."

Azzi grinned. “How about you sneak into my room tonight given that I have no roommate? "

Paige's fingers twitched against her jeans. Just a movie. Just friends. But her throat had gone dry as desert asphalt in July. "Your mom would literally murder me if she caught me sneaking in after curfew."

Azzi's eyes glittered under the hotel's exterior lights, mischief written in the curve of her smile. "Since when do you care about rules?" She stepped closer, the toe of her sneaker bumping Paige's. "Come on. We've stayed up later at tournaments. And it's not like—" Her voice dropped, suddenly shy, "—it's not like we'd be doing anything wrong."

That's the problem, Paige thought wildly. I might lose control if you keep looking at me like that.

The confession nearly slipped out right there between the parked cars and humming streetlights. Instead, she cleared her throat. "What time's lights out?"

"Eleven." Azzi rocked back on her heels, suddenly nervous. "But you don't have to—"

"I'll be there at 10:45." The words left Paige's mouth before her brain caught up. "I can bring the snacks: Sour Patch Kids and those weird peanut butter crackers you like too.”

Azzi's resulting smile could've powered the entire hotel. 

"Deal." 

She turned toward the entrance, then glanced back over her shoulder, damp brunette curls catching the light. "Don't chicken out,  you already know my room number.”

And to be fair, Paige had actually memorized it the second azzi told her. 

10:42 PM - Third Floor Hallway

Paige counted doors with her heartbeat thundering in her ears. 1124...1126... The ice machine down the hall rattled like her nerves. This was stupid. This shouldn't feel so monumental. They'd shared beds before—crammed together in the Fudds' cabin last summer, limbs tangled during movie nights in Minnesota. 

But those times had been easy. Safe.

They were also never actually alone. 

Never after Azzi had looked at her like that over breadsticks.

She raised her hand to knock—then froze. 

She was freaking out because she knew what this meant. It was painfully clear she had a crush on her best friend. But did Azzi feel the same? What would that even mean for them? For their friendship? ? And then there was Jason—the guy Azzi had shut down, but still. He was a boy, and that somehow made it different.

She remembered their conversation last night—Azzi confessing she’d never kissed anyone, Paige admitting her own experiences weren’t as wild as people assumed. The way Azzi’s eyes had lingered when she’d said, "you already know my room number."

Before she could second-guess herself any longer, Paige knocked.

The door swung open almost immediately—like Azzi had been waiting on the other side.

And there she was: damp curls framing her face, oversized hoodie slipping off one shoulder, pajama shorts that Paige was pretty sure were hers (stolen in Minnesota, no doubt).

"You gonna stand out here all night?" Azzi smirked. "Or are you coming in?"

Paige’s throat went dry. "Was working up to it."

"Scared, Bueckers?"

"Of you? Please." 

The door clicked shut behind them, sealing them in the warm, vanilla-scented dark.