Arrogant Billionaire: Love vs Hate

Chap. 27

"In the quiet moments when our eyes meet, it's as if the whole world fades away, leaving only the two of us, lost in the enchanting symphony of our hearts."

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Andy's POV

As promised by our guide, the much-anticipated evening bonfire was finally arranged, filling the campsite with an enchanting ambiance. The crackling flames danced and swayed, casting a warm glow that illuminated the faces of eager campers gathered around. Laughter and chatter filled the air.

I found myself nestled among my friends, lost in my own world. I tried to be present in the moment, but my thoughts kept drifting back to the intense moment shared with Mark in the cave. Every time I reminisced about that moment, my heart would race uncontrollably.

I was not able to face him after that intimate encounter. He made numerous attempts to approach me, but I instinctively changed my direction, avoiding any close interactions. I didn't know how to process my emotions around him. I was overwhelmed with shyness. I tried my best to keep myself occupied and engaged with my friends, but my traitorous thoughts had different plans.

"Come on, spill the beans! You've been in your own little world ever since you came out of that cave earlier. There must be someone on your mind."Clara nudged me, with a playful smile.

Gracy chimed in, "I know that look. It's the 'I'm trying to act casual, but my mind is totally somewhere else' look."

"Oh, come on, it's nothing," I replied, trying to brush off their questions. "I'm just enjoying the bonfire and the dancing."

Their knowing glances told me that my attempt to deny their claims was futile. I felt a sense of relief that Liam and Frederick were engrossed in their discussion about football games with the guys beside them. Otherwise, they would have undoubtedly joined Clara and Gracy in their teasing contest.

"Seriously girl, do you think I would buy that lie?" Gracy asked, giving me a suspicious look. Clara nodded in agreement.

I laughed nervously, attempting to downplay my emotions. "You two are reading too much into it. There's no one on my mind, I promise."

Clara raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure about that, or should I call Matt?"

"Oh well that rhymed," Gracy chuckled. I rolled my eyes.

They both let go of my lie with a playful tone. I couldn't help but feel guilty for not being completely honest with them. Despite their lighthearted response, the weight of keeping my feelings hidden was starting to burden me. I yearned to confide in them and tell them everything, but my fear of the potential consequences held me back. The possibility that scared me the most was, Clara blaming herself for everything after knowing the complete truth. Taking a deep breath, I refocused my attention on my friends once more, determined to push aside my inner turmoil.

As we huddled together, secretly planning Frederick's upcoming birthday surprise, he couldn't help but try to listen in on our conversation. However, Liam playfully held him aside with one hand, preventing him from catching any hints of our preparations.

"Hey, what are you secretly planning? Let me listen too." Frederick's playful plea to be included in our secret planning was hard to resist, especially when he accompanied it with puppy dog eyes.

"You traitors, are you planning my murder? If so, let Andy be my killer. I'll happily die in the hands of my dream girl" he said dramatically, wiping fake tears. His dramatic flair was met with laughter from the group, and I couldn't help but roll my eyes, amused by his antics.