𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬

02

Laughing and having fun through the night, the game of beach volleyball isn't very competitive, but the boys are beating us pretty badly. I take the time to learn the girls' names: Miranda, with her curly red hair and freckles; Casey, who has a bright smile and short blonde hair; and Kendall, with her athletic build and determined expression. The girls warm up to Dixi and me first, which makes the game even more enjoyable as we all get to know each other better.

However, Lena, our designated captain, remains distant and reserved. She seems almost annoyed with our presence, which creates a bit of awkwardness amidst the fun. Her striking black hair and captivating green eyes, combined with her chiseled features, make her seem even more enigmatic under the soft beach lights, I'm jealous.

On the other side of the net, I observe the team filled with tall, athletic boys, each one exuding a distinct charm. Among them, the dirty blonde, hazel-eyed boy, no man, now known as Teddy stands out prominently. His presence is captivating, and I find myself drawn to him like a moth to a flame. His hazel eyes, shimmering under the moonlight, hold a certain depth that is both mesmerizing and mystifying. They catch the light in such a way that they seem to glow, creating an almost ethereal aura around him.

Teddy doesn't even play volleyball; he's a basketball player, and it shows in his towering height and the way he effortlessly moves. His smile is nothing short of breathtaking, a panty-dropping grin that he has flashed my way once or twice, causing my heart to skip a beat each time. His confidence is palpable, and his every move is executed with a grace that is both powerful and effortless.

The other boys on the team are undoubtedly attractive, with their well-built physiques and striking features. They play with a competitive spirit and camaraderie that is admirable. Yet, none of them capture my attention quite like Teddy. His magnetic presence, combined with those shining hazel eyes and that irresistible smile, sets him apart in a league of his own.

Quinn, the boy with black hair and those mesmerizing green python eyes, has been goofing around with Teddy all night. It's clear they're best friends. I can definitely see that Quinn and Lena are twins, with their strikingly similar appearance. Those black hair and green python eyes really set them apart and make their connection unmistakable.

Teddy also is playful around with the other boys, Trixy and Jaxsy.
Teddy's tan skin gives him a sun-kissed look, making him stand out even more. His right dimple adds a charming touch to his smile, making it nearly impossible not to smile back. Whether he's goofing around with Trixy and Jaxsy or just hanging out, that dimple and his captivating hazel eyes draw everyone's attention.

My eyes finally draw away from Teddy when I hear the voices of Summer and Kimberly sitting by the pool, drunkenly cheering for Dixi and me. Before I can giggle, I feel a pound to my head, sending me flying back onto the sand. I close my eyes on impact and hear gasps, and Dixi runs up to me. I open my eyes to hear a deep, velvety voice say, "Shit, are you okay?" I look up to see Teddy's worried hazel eyes looking back at me while he leans down, staring into my eyes. His voice, rich and smooth, carries a mix of concern and tenderness that makes my heart skip a beat.

I blush, my wide eyes taken aback by the hit and the intoxicating scent of his cologne. I croak out, "It'll bruise, but I'll live," sending a smile to him while staring right into his hazel specks. His eyes sparkle with a mix of relief and amusement as he sends me a heartthrob grin. The sheer charm of his smile makes my heart race, and I feel a wave of dizziness, nearly causing me to pass out.

"It's a good thing you're tough," Teddy says with a chuckle, his hazel eyes filled with a mixture of concern and amusement. "Let's get you sorted out." He flashes a reassuring smile and pulls me off the sand, entangling our fingers together in a tight knot as he leads the way inside the beach house. I nod and glance over my shoulder at Dixi, who sends me a playful wink and a kissy face. I roll my eyes and hide my smile, feeling a mix of embarrassment and excitement.

As we walk inside, the sound of laughter and cheers from the ongoing volleyball game fades behind us. Lena, standing by the net, scoffs and gives me a look of pure disdain, as if I'm nothing but trash. The cool breeze from the open windows brushes against my skin, contrasting with the warmth of Teddy's hand holding mine.

᯾

After Teddy gives me ice and a kiss on the cheek, a warm blush spreads across my face, and my heart skips a beat. My mind racing with thoughts of his hazel eyes, his cologne, and that charming smile that made my knees weak. Teddy leaves me to my worried friends, who notice the dark purple bruise forming on my head, but all I can think about is him.

Miranda and a few of the other girls check up on me, their concern evident, but they soon leave to soak in more of the party. Sitting on the counter in the kitchen, I can't help but replay the moment in my head. Kimberly looks at me and sighs, "You so had such a main character moment, Alina." The other girls nod in agreement. "Looks like she already claimed him. I'm going to need his fine ass best friend Quinn," Dixi says amusingly, "Help a girl out?" She looks at me curiously. We all giggle, the warmth of Teddy's kiss still lingering on my cheek.

We glance at the stove and realize it's already 2 a.m. "Shit, we need to leave!" Kimberly exclaims. "We have a nail appointment in the morning!" We all agree, hurriedly grabbing our things and making our way out, my thoughts still lingering on that brief, magical moment with Teddy.

᯾

I jolt awake to Summer shaking me, "Wake up, we have a nail appointment in 20 minutes!" she practically yells in my ear. Groaning, I sit up straight on my bed, feeling the remnants of sleep clinging to me. My body protests as I stretch, my muscles still heavy with the weight of last night's excitement. I quickly throw on a pair of jean shorts and a kale crop top, the familiar fabric bringing a small comfort. Slipping on my Birkenstocks, I shuffle to the bathroom, my mind still foggy.

As I brush my teeth, the cold water jolts me awake, and I start to feel a bit more human. I rinse my mouth and look at my reflection, my eyes still puffy from sleep. I splash some cold water on my face, the chill helping to wake me up further. Prepping my skin, I apply my favorite moisturizer, the soothing scent calming my nerves. I take a deep breath, trying to shake off the grogginess. Quickly applying concealer to the aching, big purplish-blue bruise sitting right atop my forehead.

I walk downstairs to see all the girls waiting for me, their excitement palpable. Dixi is leaning against the doorframe, her joyful grin already in place. She's wearing her signature oversized sunglasses and a baby blue sundress that perfectly complements her breezy personality. Kimberly, on the other hand, is checking her phone, probably coordinating our appointment. Her sleek ponytail, curly hair demanding to break free from the scrunchie. Her stylish outfit give off an air of effortless chic.

Summer is pacing back and forth, her energy infectious. She's dressed in a vibrant floral romper that matches her bubbly personality. Her hair is pulled back into a messy bun, and she's already talking a mile a minute about the new nail designs she wants to try. As soon as they see me, Dixi gives a little cheer, "Finally! Let's go!" Kimberly looks up with a smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Summer grabs my arm, pulling me towards the door. We all rush out, piling into the pink Jeep. The air is filled with laughter and chatter as we head off to the nearby nail salon. The anticipation of a fun day ahead starts to replace my earlier grogginess, and I can't help but smile.

᯾

The nail tech is meticulously working on my pedicure, and all I can think about is Teddy, freaking whatever-his-last-name-is. His hazel eyes, the way his cologne lingers, and that charming smile are all consuming my thoughts. The girls are busy picking out their colors, debating between bright neons and soft pastels. Dixi finally settles on a bold coral, Kimberly goes for a chic lavender, and Summer, true to her name, picks a vibrant turquoise. Meanwhile, I opted for plain white gel polish, hoping the simplicity will help clear my mind.