Daylight - Paige Bueckers

365 +

June 21st, 2024

Paige's POV:

One year.

A full year since Alex and I stopped dancing around what we felt for each other and finally made it official. One year of laughter, of late-night talks, of waking up next to her and knowing-without a doubt-that I was exactly where I wanted to be. I didn't think I could love her more than I did back then, but now? Now, it's like my heart has expanded in ways I never thought possible.

So, for our anniversary, I had to go big.

And what's bigger than Gampel Pavilion?

Technically, we weren't allowed to do this. Actually, we were definitely not allowed to do this. But I had connections, and let's be real, no one was going to tell me no. I pulled some strings, made some calls, and now, Gampel was ours for the night.

Alex had no idea.

But before the big reveal, I had to secure some help. Which led me to bribing my friends with promises of free food, future favors, and, in Aubrey's case, the last hoodie of mine she'd been trying to steal for months.

"This is ridiculous," Aubrey grumbled, arms crossed as she eyed the aprons I was making them wear. "We're literally your friends, not hired staff."

"You're my amazing friends who love me very much and are willing to serve one meal in the name of true love," I countered, flashing a grin.

Naomi narrowed her eyes. "You did get takeout from our favorite place, right?"

"Obviously."

Cassie sighed dramatically. "Fine. But if Alex asks for anything unreasonable, I'm charging a tip."

"She's not tipping you," I said, rolling my eyes.

"Then she can Venmo me," Cassie shot back.

I looked to Aubrey, who was smirking. "And you? Are you in?"

She held out her hand. "Hoodie first."

I groaned but handed it over, knowing she wouldn't budge otherwise. She inspected it, nodded in satisfaction, and then slung it over her shoulder. "Alright, I'll be the best damn waiter you've ever seen."

With my team secured, the plan was officially in motion.

I told Alex to dress nice but comfortable and that I'd pick her up at 7. When I pulled up to her house, she was waiting outside, standing on the porch in a sleek black dress that hugged her body perfectly, her dark curls falling naturally over her shoulders. She was breathtaking. I almost forgot how to breathe when I saw her.

"Damn," I said, stepping out of the car. "I should've told you to dress ugly so I wouldn't get distracted all night."

Alex smirked, walking down the steps toward me. "If this is your way of saying I look good, I'll allow it."

I opened the car door for her, because obviously, I'm the best girlfriend ever. "You look way beyond good."

She slid in, eyeing me curiously. "Are you going to tell me where we're going now?"

"Nope."