Can't Seem To Hide It

A Heartbeat

Chapter 39:

The team had settled into a new rhythm after the intense and passionate night Paige and Azzi had shared. As days turned into weeks, the dynamic within the group continued to evolve, with each member adjusting to the new layers of their relationships.

One crisp autumn evening, the team gathered for a team-building event at a local park. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the field as they prepared for a casual game of tag and a picnic. Spirits were high, and the playful banter was in full swing.

Azzi and Paige were particularly close that evening, their interactions marked by playful touches and knowing glances. They seemed to be in their own world, which didn't go unnoticed by the rest of the team.

As the group settled down for the picnic, Kk, Aubrey, and Ice huddled together, discussing the recent developments.

"So, are we going to talk about how Paige and Azzi are basically glued to each other?" Ice asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and amusement.

Aubrey grinned. "I think it's pretty clear they're head over heels for each other. But it's fun to watch them be so lovey-dovey."

Kk nodded, looking thoughtful. "Yeah, but have you noticed how Paige always seems to be on edge whenever Azzi is with Nathan or anyone else? She's really protective."

Ice and Aubrey exchanged knowing looks. "It's definitely more than just playful jealousy," Aubrey said. "Paige's intensity comes from a place of deep care."

Meanwhile, Paige and Azzi were sitting on a blanket, their heads close as they whispered and laughed together. Paige's hand was resting casually on Azzi's leg, her thumb gently brushing against her skin.

"You know," Azzi said softly, "I've been thinking a lot about us lately. About how we've been... us."

Paige looked at her, her eyes softening. "Yeah? What's been on your mind?"

Azzi took a deep breath, searching for the right words. "I just... I want us to be open with each other. I want to make sure we're both on the same page."

Paige smiled, squeezing Azzi's leg gently. "We are. I mean, we might not always say it out loud, but I know how much we mean to each other."

Azzi nodded, her gaze intense. "I know that. But sometimes, I think we should be more explicit about our feelings. It's important, don't you think?"

Paige's smile widened, and she leaned in to kiss Azzi softly. "You're right. We should be more open. I guess I just get caught up in the moment and forget to talk about it."

Their conversation was interrupted by Kk, Aubrey, and Ice, who had approached the blanket with plates of food.

"Are you two having a deep conversation or just making out over there?" Kk teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Paige and Azzi laughed, their cheeks flushed. "A bit of both," Azzi replied, still holding Paige's hand.

"Girl boo yeah sure" kk said 

Ice raised an eyebrow playfully. "Well, just remember, the rest of us are here, too. We might not be as smitten, but we're still part of the team."

The picnic continued with laughter, games, and shared stories. The team's bond grew stronger as they enjoyed each other's company, with Paige and Azzi's relationship adding a new layer of warmth and affection to the group dynamic.

As the evening wore on, the sun dipped below the horizon, and the sky turned a deep shade of twilight. The team gathered around a bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. The flames crackled, casting a cozy glow on their faces.

Paige and Azzi sat close together, wrapped in a shared blanket. Paige's arm was draped around Azzi's shoulders, and Azzi rested her head on Paige's chest, her fingers intertwined with Paige's.

Aubrey, sitting across from them, couldn't help but smile at the sight. "You two are really something else," she said, her tone affectionate.

Paige grinned, looking down at Azzi. "We're just figuring things out as we go."

Azzi looked up at Paige, her eyes full of love. "And I wouldn't have it any other way."

The night ended with the team feeling more connected than ever. The conversations, the games, and the shared experiences had brought them closer together, solidifying their friendships and deepening their relationships.

As they packed up and headed back to the dorm, the team reflected on the evening's events. Paige and Azzi's open conversation about their feelings had set a new tone for their relationship—one of honesty, affection, and mutual understanding