Chapter 52

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Stass's POV.

July 4, 2019 - 9pm

The fireworks had finished, the last explosions of red and gold fading into the night sky, leaving behind a soft hum of excited voices and distant chatter of the remaining guests. I felt a warmth spread through me, not just from the buzz of the party, but from Kyler's words earlier. The weight of the conversation we'd just had lingered in the air, but for now, there was something else: the subtle, undeniable pull between us that neither of us could fully ignore.

KYLIE: Kylie clapped her hands, signaling that it was time to move inside. "Alright, party animals! We're having a sleepover, whether you like it or not!" She announced, already heading towards the door with an exaggerated, over-the-top wave. "So, no one's leaving. We've got snacks, movies, and absolutely no excuse to not stay here until we pass out."

Luckily, it was only the close friends left: Vic, Carter, Kyler, Sofia Richie, Ariel, Jesus, Justine, and me. Safe to say, Kyler's a bit of an outsider, but he means the world to all of us.

I caught Kyler's eye, the spark in his expression sending a thrill down my spine

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I caught Kyler's eye, the spark in his expression sending a thrill down my spine. He shot me a sly grin as if daring me to challenge Kylie's invitation, but I knew better than to back out. Besides, as much as I loved a good excuse to hang out with the group, the thought of possibly being alone with Kyler for the whole night? That idea was much too tempting to pass up.

 Besides, as much as I loved a good excuse to hang out with the group, the thought of possibly being alone with Kyler for the whole night? That idea was much too tempting to pass up

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STASS: "Sure, why not?" I shrugged, trying to keep my tone casual, even though the playful energy between us was practically electric.

We all trailed into the living room, freshened up, the expansive space flooded with warm, golden light. Kylie had already made herself comfortable, throwing pillows onto the floor and rearranging blankets like she was preparing for a sleepover from a rom-com. Carter and Vic were lounging on the couch, and they immediately started huddling in to choose what movie to watch. I plopped down next to Kylie, but my eyes kept drifting back to Kyler, who was in a casual conversation with Justine and Sofia just a few feet away.

After catching my eye, sending me a cute little smirk, he ended the conversation with them casually, walking over to sit down next to me, a little too close, though he acted like he didn't notice.

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