ᴇᴄʜᴏᴇꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴜꜱ

The Great Cuddle Conspiracy

Aysh's POV

The night of the movie was still fresh in Aysh's mind, and she couldn't help but grin as she scrolled through the group chat, reviewing the chaotic events that had unfolded. It was time to plan the next big move.

She tossed her phone aside and turned to Nya, who was doodling in her sketchbook. "Okay, mission success last night! They're definitely feeling something."

Nya looked up, a playful smirk on her face. "You think? I thought Izuko was going to burst into flames from all the blushing!"

"Exactly! That's our cue!" Aysh declared, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "We need to keep pushing them together. I say we organize another outing—maybe a picnic? We can set up some romantic vibes."

Nya raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure we're not overdoing it? They might actually run for the hills if we keep it up."

"Nah, it'll be fine!" Aysh reassured her, bouncing in her seat. "We're just helping them see what's right in front of them! Plus, with some food involved, who can resist?"

In the Group Chat...

Aysh: "Guys, how about a picnic this weekend? Just us and the beautiful outdoors!"

Jenna: "I'm in! I'll bring the snacks!"

Hannah: "Count me in too! I have some games we can play."

Riy: "Sounds fun! Can I bring my puppy? He's a great icebreaker."

Nya: "Perfect! And who knows, maybe Izuko and Sarah will finally make a move."

Later that Week...

The day of the picnic arrived, and the sun shone brightly as the group gathered at the local park. Colorful blankets were spread out under the trees, and the sound of laughter filled the air. Izuko arrived with Sarah by her side, both looking slightly nervous but excited.

"This looks amazing!" Izuko exclaimed, scanning the area.

"Yeah, it really does," Sarah replied, her eyes twinkling. "I can't believe they pulled this off."

Aysh spotted them and immediately rushed over. "Izuko! Sarah! You made it!" she said, beaming. "Come on, join us!"

As they settled onto the blanket, the group started to unpack the food, a colorful array of sandwiches, fruits, and snacks.

"So, what's the plan?" Izuko asked, glancing around.

"Games first! Then we eat!" Hannah declared, bouncing on her toes. "We've got charades, a scavenger hunt, and more."

"Sounds fun! I'm in," Sarah said, nudging Izuko playfully. "You ready to lose?"

Izuko rolled her eyes but couldn't help but laugh. "Oh, please. You're going down!"

As the Games Began...

The first game was charades, and soon, laughter erupted as everyone attempted to act out different movies. When it was Sarah's turn, she chose a romantic film, grinning mischievously as she exaggerated every movement.

"Come on, it's an easy one!" Aysh laughed, trying to guess.

"A walk to remember?" Jenna shouted, and everyone giggled.

"Nope! Think more dramatic!" Sarah continued to act, throwing in some overly dramatic facial expressions that had everyone roaring with laughter.

Finally, Izuko took a turn. She chose a comedy, trying to mimic the lead character's awkwardness.

"What's this? Awkwardness or a dance-off?" Sarah teased, unable to hold back her laughter.

Izuko playfully narrowed her eyes, feeling her shyness bubble up again. "Hey, it's called artistic expression!"

After several rounds, they all settled down, breathless from laughing. The sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the park.

As They Ate...

"Okay, time to get serious," Nya announced, grabbing a sandwich. "Sarah, I need your help with this class project. Izuko, you're in on it too!"

"Wait, what project?" Izuko asked, confused.

"The project of making you two confess your feelings!" Aysh chimed in, and everyone burst into laughter.

"Seriously?" Sarah laughed, leaning closer to Izuko. "I think they might need a little more time."

Izuko felt her cheeks heat up, trying to hide her flustered expression behind her sandwich. "I—I'm fine just being friends, right?" she stuttered, not quite believing her own words.

"Friends? That's a great start!" Nya teased, smirking.

"But... what if we were more?" Sarah's voice was low, almost teasing, but Izuko caught the hint of sincerity.

"What do you mean?" Izuko asked, her heart racing.

"You know, just... more than friends," Sarah said, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Aysh jumped in, her eyes gleaming. "This picnic is all about love! You both should totally give it a shot!"

Izuko's heart raced, and her shyness hit a new peak. "Okay, but let's focus on food first!"

As the laughter continued, Izuko caught Sarah's gaze, feeling the tension between them shift into something thrilling. Maybe Aysh was right; maybe it was time to stop hiding...