Can't Seem To Hide It

The Farewell

Chapter 32:

The time had come for Jalen Suggs to return to his regular routine. After a week filled with catching up and rekindling old friendships, the day of his departure arrived. The farewell was bittersweet, with the team and Paige reflecting on the meaningful moments they had shared.

As Jalen packed his belongings in his hotel room, Paige found herself feeling a mixture of nostalgia and melancholy. She had enjoyed reconnecting with him, but she also knew it was time for him to go. Their conversations and the time they spent together had been a pleasant reminder of their shared history, but it was also a reminder of how much had changed.

Azzi, always perceptive of Paige's emotions, noticed her subdued mood. She approached Paige in the hotel lobby, where Jalen was preparing to leave.

"Hey," Azzi said gently. "You seem a bit down. Are you okay?"

Paige forced a smile, nodding. "Yeah, just a little nostalgic, I guess. It's been great catching up with Jalen, but it's weird to think that he's heading back home."

Azzi took Paige's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I understand. It's hard to say goodbye, especially when it's someone who's meant a lot to you. But remember, it's not the end. You've got a lot of great things ahead of you, and so does he."

Jalen, who had finished his packing, approached them with a smile. "Hey, you two. I just wanted to thank you both for making this week so special. It's been amazing reconnecting with everyone and catching up."

Paige gave him a warm hug. "Thank you for coming. It really meant a lot to me. I hope everything goes well for you."

Jalen smiled, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and affection. "I appreciate that. It's been great to see you again, Paige. And nice to meet you, Azzi. You've got a wonderful person here."

Azzi smiled back, her tone warm but tinged with a hint of sadness. "It was nice meeting you too, Jalen. Safe travels, and take care."

As they exchanged final goodbyes, Paige felt a pang of sadness but also a sense of closure. Jalen's visit had been a meaningful experience, one that reminded her of the importance of old friendships and the passage of time.

After Jalen left for the airport, Paige and Azzi returned to their room. The quiet of their space felt different without the buzz of the recent events.

Azzi noticed Paige's reflective mood and decided to lighten the atmosphere. "How about we do something fun today? We could go for a walk, have a nice dinner, or maybe just relax and watch a movie. Whatever you feel up to."

Paige looked at Azzi with a grateful smile. "That sounds perfect. I could use some time to unwind and enjoy some quiet time with you."

They spent the rest of the day together, enjoying each other's company and focusing on their relationship. As they walked hand in hand through a nearby park, they talked about their future and the adventures they wanted to share.

The day ended with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, where they reminisced about the past week and planned their next steps. Paige felt a renewed sense of appreciation for the present and the future, knowing that she had Azzi by her side.

As they returned to their room that evening, Paige reflected on the week's events and the impact they had on her. Jalen's visit had been a reminder of the connections that shaped her, but it also reinforced the strength of her current relationships and the journey she was on with Azzi.

In the quiet of the night, Paige and Azzi lay in bed together, their thoughts calm and content. Paige snuggled close to Azzi, feeling a deep sense of love and connection.

"I'm really glad we have each other," Paige said softly. "Thank you for being so supportive and understanding."

Azzi kissed the top of Paige's head, her voice tender. "I'm glad we have each other too. No matter what comes our way, we'll face it together. And I'm excited for everything that lies ahead."

They drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's arms, their hearts full of love and anticipation for the future. Jalen's departure marked the end of one chapter, but for Paige and Azzi, it was the beginning of new and exciting adventures together.

The week had been a testament to the importance of friendships, both old and new, and it had strengthened the bond between Paige and Azzi. As they faced the future, they did so with a renewed sense of commitment and optimism, ready to embrace whatever came next with love and determination.