Whispers of the Shadows

Unforeseen Encounters

- At airport back to California -

(Lilys POV)

I've been friends with Sam and Colby since we were 15. I met Sam from a science project and we've kept in contact ever since. When me and Sam were hanging out he asked if Colby could join us and I said yes.

I will admit, I had a massive crush on him from 12-14. But I don't anymore, kind of. We are best friends and I don't think he would think of me anymore than that.

Anyways. Me, Sam, and Colby walk through the airport, carrying our luggage.

Three excited fans spot Sam and Colby and approach with anticipation. One girl has Very blond hair, another has a very red shirt, the last girl has a XPLR hoodie on, and shorter than the other three.

"Oh my gosh, it's Sam and Colby! Can we take a picture?" asked the girl with the blonde hair

"Of course! Let's snap a quick photo together," Said Sam.

The girl with the XPLR hoodie keeps looking at me, "Wait, who's she?" she asked

"This is Lily," Said Colby putting his hand on my shoulder quickly, "She may or may not be in the next video," He added chuckling in the end.

Sam and Colby take the pictures with the fans I stand out of frame.

"Do you wanna be in the picture?" The girl with the red shirt said quietly but still able to hear her.

"Sure," I say.

Colby, unaware, happens to glance at me with a subtle look of admiration.

The fans all say bye and walk away chuckling and whispering while looking at the pictures that have just been taken.

"I'll be back i'm gonna get some stuff for the plane ride," Sam says walking off.

Me and Colby nod and walk to a bench to sit.

"Lily, it's been incredible having you on this journey with us. You bring a fresh perspective to our investigations." Colby says as we set our stuff down.

"Thanks Colby," I say smiling softly.

While we talk, I notice the fans discreetly taking photos of me and Colby.

"Hey Colby i'll be right back i'm gonna use the bathroom," I say standing up leaving before he could say anything.

As i'm walking to the bathroom I see the girls who took a picture with us whispering to each other while looking at me. I ignore them by looking at my phone opening instagram.

Walking into the bathroom I scroll and see a post of me, Colby, Sam, and the 3 fans and in the picture Colby is looking at me captioned "Caught a candid moment between Colby and Lily! 😍 is there something more going on between them? What do you think? Share your thoughts below! 👩‍❤️‍👨#ColbyAndLily"

"Oh shit.."

I use the bathroom, wash my hands and walk out to meet back with Colby.

"Colby have you checked Instagram.." I say

"Yea I just did."

Meanwhile, Sam returns with his food and water, unaware of the brewing online buzz.

"Alright, let's grab our things and head to the gate," Sam says happily.

We gather our belongings, maintaining our smiles and composure as the fans continue to observe and capture the moments.

Colby glances at his phone, his expression changing as he reads the comments and sees the speculation surrounding the photo. His brows furrow slightly, a mix of surprise and concern evident on his face.

"Lily, it looks like that picture is causing quite a stir," Colby says, his voice tinged with worry.

I nod, feeling a knot forming in my stomach. The unexpected attention and assumptions about our relationship make me uneasy.

"But you know it's just a photo, right? They're reading too much into it," Colby adds, trying to reassure me.

"Yeah, I know," I reply, trying to sound nonchalant while secretly hoping he's right.

As we make our way to the gate, the atmosphere feels slightly different. I notice more lingering glances from curious onlookers, and whispers seem to follow us. It's as if the speculation has spread beyond social media and seeped into our reality.

Sam, still unaware of the online buzz, continues to chat excitedly about the upcoming plans, oblivious to the tension building among us. Colby and I exchange glances, silently acknowledging the need to address the situation.

"Colby, maybe we should clarify things," I suggest, my voice barely above a whisper.

He nods. "Hey, everyone, can I have your attention for a moment?" Colby calls out, his voice carrying across the bustling airport.

What the hell?

"Colby what are you doing I didn't mean like this?"

The surrounding chatter dies down, and curious gazes turn toward us. I take a deep breath.

"Listen, we just wanted to address the recent speculations about the photo you may have seen on social media," Colby begins, his voice calm but firm. "Lily and I are really good friends, and that's all there is to it. We appreciate your support, but please understand that assumptions can easily get blown out of proportion."

I stand beside Colby, my heart pounding with a mix of relief and nervousness. The fans, initially surprised by our announcement, gradually start to understand. The tension dissipates, replaced by a sense of understanding and acceptance.

With that clarification, we proceed to the gate, ready to board the plane and continue our adventures. The weight of the rumors still lingers, but we are determined not to let it overshadow the bond we share as friends and the exciting journey ahead.

As we approach the gate, the anticipation and excitement for our flight begin to overshadow the lingering tension. The fans, now aware of the truth, approach us with a mixture of relief and genuine admiration.

Sam, still oblivious to the recent developments, playfully bumps into Colby's shoulder. "What did I miss, guys?"

"Just some social media drama" I say.

Sam raises an eyebrow, curious but not pushing further. "Well, as long as everything's good now. Let's get ready to board and continue making amazing memories."

With renewed enthusiasm, we line up at the gate, ready to embark on our next adventure. As we wait, some fans come up to us to express their excitement, snap pictures, and share words of encouragement.

Finally, it's time to board the plane. We find our seats and settle in, each lost in our own thoughts. Colby leans over, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

"You know, Lily, this trip may have had its fair share of surprises, but I'm grateful for every moment, including this one," he says, his voice sincere.

I smile, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "Me too, Colby. It's been an adventure, to say the least."

As the plane takes off and we leave the airport behind, we're filled with anticipation for what lies ahead.