Beneath the Surface

Chapter 13

The night had the kind of energy that promised something unforgettable from the start. Lizzie couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement as she stood in front of her mirror, smoothing down the fabric of her mini dress. It was simple but cute, hugging her figure in all the right places. She smiled, turning slightly to check her reflection again. The anticipation was already buzzing through her veins.

Behind her, Y/N leaned against the doorway, her arms crossed and a faint smirk playing on her lips. Lizzie caught Y/N's reflection in the mirror and felt her heart skip a beat. Y/N looked effortlessly cool in her fitted black jeans and dark shirt, the casual yet confident style making her look hotter than usual. There was something about the way Y/N carried herself tonight—like she owned every room she walked into—and it sent a thrill through Lizzie.

"You look amazing," Lizzie said, her voice soft as she turned around to face Y/N.

Y/N's smirk deepened, her eyes scanning Lizzie from head to toe with clear appreciation. "So do you. That dress..."

Lizzie's cheeks flushed at the way Y/N was looking at her, the heat between them building already. She crossed the room in a few steps, wrapping her arms around Y/N's waist and pulling her close. For a moment, they just stood there, holding each other, and Lizzie felt the comfort of Y/N's steady presence wash over her.

"Ready?" Y/N asked, her voice low and soft against Lizzie's ear.

Lizzie nodded, her excitement bubbling over. "Let's go."

As they made their way outside, Lizzie couldn't help the giddy feeling rising inside her. Tonight was going to be fun—she could feel it. The black Escalade sat waiting at the curb, its sleek, tinted windows giving it an air of mystery and luxury. Mia and Jess were already inside, chatting away and laughing as the driver opened the door for them.

Lizzie slid in next to Y/N, settling comfortably against her as Mia greeted them with her usual enthusiasm. "Finally! We were starting to think you guys were gonna skip the party for a private night in," Mia teased, winking at Lizzie.

Jess snickered beside her, already holding a drink. "Yeah, it wouldn't have surprised me."

Lizzie rolled her eyes playfully but couldn't hide her smile. "Shut up. We're here now, aren't we?"

The energy inside the car was infectious, and soon Lizzie found herself laughing along with her friends as the driver navigated the city streets. The anticipation of the party, the music playing softly through the car's speakers, and the warm presence of Y/N beside her made everything feel electric.

By the time they pulled up to Jake's house, the party was already in full swing. Music pulsed from inside, the beat vibrating through the air, and groups of people spilled out onto the lawn, drinks in hand and laughter echoing into the night.

Lizzie felt a surge of excitement as she stepped out of the car, glancing at Y/N, who stood tall and calm next to her, surveying the scene with her usual quiet confidence. Y/N's hand found Lizzie's, their fingers interlocking as they made their way toward the house.

"This is going to be fun," Mia declared, leading the way inside.

Jess followed, already bouncing to the rhythm of the music. "I just want to dance."

Lizzie glanced up at Y/N, smiling. "What about you?"

Y/N's lips curled into a small smile. "I'm here for whatever you want."

That was enough to send Lizzie's heart into overdrive. She squeezed Y/N's hand as they entered the house, the pulse of the music surrounding them. The living room was packed with people dancing, talking, and laughing, the dim lights casting an intimate glow over the scene. It was one of those parties that felt like it could go on forever, where the night seemed endless and full of possibilities.