Hidden Flames

Chapter 15

[Thompson House]

Juliette stood in front of her closet, sifting through hangers and piles of clothes. She wanted to look perfect. After much deliberation, she decided on a black, body-hugging dress with a sweetheart neckline and intricate lace details. It was classy but also flirty, just what she needed for a night out.

She slipped into the dress and examined herself in the mirror. It hugged her curves in all the right places, and she paired it with black heels that gave her just the right amount of height. For her hair, she chose loose waves, letting them cascade down her shoulders. A touch of smoky eye makeup and a bold red lip completed the look. Satisfied, she grabbed her keys and headed out the door.

[Club]

When Juliette arrived at the club, the neon lights were already casting a vibrant glow over the entrance. She spotted the girls waiting for her, looking as fabulous as ever. Noa, in particular, stood out in a sleek dress that highlighted her athletic figure. As Juliette walked up to them, she noticed Noa's eyes travel down her body, her gaze lingering a bit longer than usual.

"You look amazing, Juliette" Imogen said, pulling her into a hug

"Thanks" Juliette replied, smiling at her

She turned to Noa, who was still watching her intently. Noa didn't say anything, but the look in her eyes made Juliette's cheeks flush. She quickly looked away, feeling the heat rise to her face.

"Ready to dance?" Tabby asked, excitement in her voice

"Absolutely" Juliette said, eager to get inside and start the night

They made their way into the club, the music already pulsing through the air. The dance floor was packed, but they managed to find a spot where they could all dance together. The beat was infectious, and soon they were all moving to the rhythm.

Noa danced close to Juliette, her movements fluid and confident. The proximity made Juliette's heart race, and she could feel the tension between them growing with every beat. Noa's hand brushed against hers as they danced, sending a jolt of electricity through her. Juliette tried to focus on the music, but it was hard to ignore the way her body responded to Noa's presence.

"Having fun?" Noa shouted over the music, her lips close to Juliette's ear

"Yeah" Juliette replied, her voice a bit breathless, "You?"

"Definitely" Noa said, her eyes locking onto Juliette's

They continued to dance, the space between them narrowing with each song. At one point, Noa placed her hands on Juliette's hips, guiding her movements in sync with hers. It was intoxicating, and Juliette found herself leaning into Noa's touch. The club lights flickered, casting shadows that seemed to dance along with them.

Juliette couldn't help but steal glances at Noa, admiring the way she moved, the way she smiled. It was like the rest of the world had faded away, leaving just the two of them in their own little bubble. Her heart pounded, a mix of excitement and nerves.

When the song ended, they paused to catch their breath. Noa's hands still rested on Juliette's hips, and she looked at her with a softness in her eyes that made Juliette's stomach flutter.

"You're really something, Juliette" Noa said

Juliette blushed again, unsure of how to respond, "So are you, Noa"

"Do you like me being this close?" Noa whispered

Juliette swallowed hard, "I, uh, I..." Juliette stated

Noa smirked as she leaned in closer to Juliette's ear, the slight alcohol smell lingers on her breath, "I can feel your heartbeat. I know the answer already, baby" She whispered