: A Bittersweet Triumph

In the weeks that followed her conversation with her parents, Bella reluctantly set aside her dreams of pursuing creative writing and followed her father's directive. She diligently applied to the universities he had approved, her academic records and achievements securing her acceptance into each one.

Her family's reaction to her acceptance was one of unabashed pride and jubilation. They celebrated her achievements with a lavish gathering, and Bella found herself surrounded by well-wishers and admirers who marvelled at her academic accomplishments.

For the Livingston family, it was a moment of triumph, a confirmation of their lineage's excellence. Bella's acceptance into prestigious universities was a testament to their family legacy, and her parents basked in the glory of their daughter's success.

Yet, despite the external celebrations and accolades, Bella couldn't find the happiness she had hoped for. Each acceptance letter, each congratulatory gesture, only served as a reminder of the dreams she had set aside. The weight of her family's expectations, their social status, and their insistence on a specific path for her future pressed down on her like a heavy mantle.

As she looked at her acceptance letters spread out on her desk, Bella couldn't help but feel a sense of emptiness. It was a bittersweet triumph, a victory that had come at the cost of her own desires and aspirations. The weight of her unfulfilled dreams continued to haunt her, and she yearned for a sense of purpose and fulfilment that seemed elusive in the world her family had constructed for her.

High school graduation day arrived; a momentous occasion that was marked by a grand ceremony held in the prestigious hall of the school. The venue was adorned with flowers and decorations, and the graduating students donned their caps and gowns with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Bella's parents, Richard and Isabella, attended the ceremony, as was expected of a family of their stature. However, their presence felt more like a formality than a genuine celebration of their daughter's achievement. Throughout the event, they seemed more preoccupied with engaging in conversations and networking with other affluent families, their attention divided among business associates and social acquaintances.

As the ceremony progressed, Bella took her place among her fellow graduates, her heart aching with a sense of bittersweetness. She had worked hard to reach this milestone, yet the joy of the moment was overshadowed by the realization that her parents were more interested in their social obligations than capturing the significant moments of her life.

When the time came for Bella to receive her diploma on stage, she looked out into the audience, hoping to catch a glimpse of her parents' proud faces and the flash of a camera. However, she was met with the sight of her parents engrossed in conversation, their attention elsewhere. It was a bitter reminder of the emotional distance that had always existed between them.

As Bella descended from the stage with her diploma in hand, she couldn't help but feel a sense of emptiness. The applause from the audience was drowned out by the conflicting emotions within her. It was a moment she had longed for, but the absence of her parents' support and presence made it feel incomplete.

It was Lily, her faithful friend and confidante, who noticed Bella's melancholy and came to her side. With a warm smile, Lily hugged her tightly and whispered words of encouragement. "We did it, Bella. We graduated, and that's a significant achievement. Don't let anything or anyone take away from our moment. University and freedom. Here we come!"

Bella nodded; her eyes misty with gratitude for Lily's unwavering support.

As the graduation ceremony concluded and the graduates scattered to celebrate with their families, Bella clung to the warmth of Lily's friendship.

After the graduation ceremony, as the family returned home, Bella's father, Richard, took her aside with an air of excitement. His eyes twinkled as he spoke, and there was an unmistakable enthusiasm in his voice.

"Bella," he said, "I have a special gift for you, something to celebrate your graduation and give you a break before you embark on your university journey."

Bella was taken aback by her father's unexpected generosity. She had expected their relationship to remain tense, given the recent clash over her academic and career choices. She nodded; curiosity piqued.

"What is it, Dad?" she asked, her tone cautious.

Richard's smile broadened as he revealed the surprise. "We're going on a vacation as a family. We'll be traveling to Thasos, Greece, where Reid has a private island. He's graciously invited us to stay there for a week."

Bella's heart skipped a beat when she heard the name "Reid", and the mere mention of him sent a rush of emotions through her. Reid had always been a subject of fascination and desire for her, and the thought of spending time on his private island was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.

She couldn't help but feel conflicted. On one hand, the idea of a luxurious vacation in Greece was enticing, and it would provide a much-needed break after the stress of graduation. On the other hand, the presence of Reid—her father's best friend and the object of her long-standing crush—made her heart race and her thoughts swirl with uncertainty.

Richard continued, unaware of the turmoil in Bella's mind. "I thought this would be a great opportunity for us to spend quality time together as a family before you start your university studies. Reid assures me that Thasos is absolutely beautiful, and his private island is a paradise."

Bella forced a smile, her mind racing with thoughts of the upcoming trip.

After her father revealed the surprise vacation to Thasos, Greece, on Reid's private island, Bella retreated to her room, still processing the unexpected turn of events. She couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension about the trip.

With a sense of anticipation, Bella picked up her phone and dialled Lily's number. Her friend's voice was filled with curiosity and excitement as she answered the call.

Bella couldn't contain her own excitement as she replied, "Lily, we're going to Greece for one week! It's a vacation on Reid's private island in Thasos. Can you believe it?"

Lily's response was a delighted gasp. "Oh my gosh, Bella, that sounds amazing! You're going to have such a fantastic time. And, of course, you'll be on an island with Reid. You lucky girl!"

Bella blushed at Lily's teasing remarks. Her friend had always been aware of her crush on Reid, and she couldn't resist playfully poking fun at Bella's attraction to him.

"Lily, it's not like that," Bella protested, though a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "It's just a family vacation, and Reid happens to be my dad's best friend. Plus, the difference between us is huge; he didn’t even know I existed. I will always be his best friend’s daughter."

Lily chuckled mischievously. "Sure, Bella, whatever you say. Just make sure you enjoy every moment of this trip, even if it's with your 'dad's best friend'."

As Bella blushed at Lily's teasing remarks and tried to downplay her crush on Reid, her friend's playful teasing continued. Lily had always been more outgoing and flirtatious, while Bella had been the shy and reserved one in their friendship.

Lily leaned in conspiratorially, her voice filled with amusement. "Come on, Bella, you've got to live a little! I know you've been cooped up in that mansion of yours, surrounded by books and luxury, but it's time to let loose. Besides, you've got zero experience with men. It is time to do something about it, otherwise you will end up in an arranged marriage, or worse, you will die virgin."

Bella's cheeks turned an even deeper shade of crimson at Lily's blunt observation. It was true that her sheltered upbringing and introverted nature had left her with limited romantic experience. She had always been the quiet one, the observer, while Lily had been the more outgoing and adventurous of the two.

She stammered in response, "Well, that's not entirely true, Lily. I mean, I've had crushes and... and stuff."

Lily burst into laughter, not unkindly, but with a genuine sense of mirth. "Crushes and 'stuff'? Bella, you're going to have to teach me your ways. But seriously, enjoy this trip. Who knows what might happen? It could be the adventure of a lifetime!"

After her light-hearted conversation with Lily, Bella prepared for bed. She changed into her night gown and settled under the covers, ready to call it a night. However, as she reached over to set her phone on the nightstand, she couldn't resist the urge to open it one more time.

With a sigh of frustration at her own curiosity, Bella unlocked her mobile and navigated to a news website. She knew exactly what she was searching for—an article or photo of Reid Carter, her father's best friend and the source of her long-standing crush.

It didn't take long for her to find a recent photo of Reid in a press article. He looked as handsome and enigmatic as ever, with a captivating cold smile that seemed to hide a multitude of secrets. Bella's heart skipped a beat as she gazed at the image, her frustration giving way to a mixture of longing and admiration.

But as she continued to stare at the photo, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration. The man in the image seemed so distant, so unattainable. He was a billionaire, a ruthless business man, a close friend of her father, and someone who existed in a world far removed from her own.

With a huff of annoyance at herself for indulging in such thoughts, Bella closed the article and set her phone aside. She knew that her infatuation with Reid was a fruitless endeavour, a fantasy that would never become a reality. With a sigh, she turned off the lamp on her nightstand and settled into her bed, determined to put her wayward thoughts aside and get a good night's sleep.

: A Journey to Greece

In the coming days, preparations for the trip to Thasos, Greece, were set into motion. Bella's family, despite their considerable wealth and social standing, did not possess the extravagances that Reid Carter had at his disposal—a private jet and a secluded island in the Mediterranean.

As the departure date neared, the Livingston family made their way to the private airfield where Reid's plane was stationed. The sight of the sleek and luxurious aircraft was a testament to the opulence that Bella's father's best friend enjoyed.

Bella watched as the ground crew prepared the plane for departure, her thoughts a whirlwind of anticipation and uncertainty. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the extravagance of the private jet, even as she grappled with the complexities of the trip.

Her mother, Isabella, was dressed elegantly, as always, and her father, Richard, exuded an air of authority and success. They were well-prepared for the journey, with luggage and personal items neatly organized.

As they boarded the private jet, Bella couldn't help but reflect on the stark contrast between her family's lifestyle and that of Reid Carter. While they were undoubtedly wealthy, they lacked the opulent luxuries that their friend enjoyed—a testament to the disparity in their respective fortunes. Let's not forget that Reid is in the Top Forbes100.

The plane's interior was plush and comfortable, with leather seats and all the amenities one could expect from a private jet. Bella settled into her seat, her mind buzzing with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. She knew that the week ahead on Reid's private island would be a unique experience, one that would challenge her in unexpected ways.

As the plane taxied down the runway and took off into the clear blue sky, Bella looked out of the window at the world below. Thasos, Greece, awaited her—a place of beauty, adventure, and the presence of a man who had always been both a source of fascination and a mystery to her.

After nearly nine hours of flight, the private jet carrying the Livingston family touched down in Greece, a country known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. As they disembarked from the plane, Bella was immediately struck by the breathtaking view that greeted her.

The airport in Greece was surrounded by picturesque mountains, and the clear, azure sky stretched out as far as the eye could see. The warm Mediterranean breeze carried with it the scents of the sea and the promise of adventure.

Bella stepped off the plane and took a deep breath, the freshness of the air invigorating her senses. She marvelled at the natural beauty that surrounded them, a stark contrast to the bustling city life of New York she was accustomed to.

Their journey to the island was far from over, though. From the airport, the Livingston family was transported to a nearby harbor, where a private boat awaited them. The boat would be their means of reaching Reid's secluded island paradise.

The boat ride was a journey unto itself. As they cruised across the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Bella was captivated by the mesmerizing shades of blue that extended in every direction. The sea breeze played with her hair, and the gentle rocking of the boat was soothing, a stark contrast to the hurried pace of their everyday lives.

The island loomed closer with each passing minute; an emerald gem set in the vast expanse of the sea. It was a place of natural beauty, a haven of tranquillity that promised respite from the demands of the world.

As they approached the private island, Bella couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.

Upon their arrival at Reid Carter's private island, the Livingston family was greeted by none other than Reid himself. He stood at the dock, exuding an air of confidence and authority that had always been a part of his presence. Dressed in relaxed, casual attire instead of his usual sharp suits, Reid was a vision that left Bella momentarily flustered.

Reid's imposing and intimidating aura had always been a part of his allure, but now, in the more relaxed clothes of a casual shirt and khaki pants, he seemed even more approachable, yet no less captivating. His tall and athletic figure, sun-kissed skin, and rugged charm were on full display. Bella couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth to her cheeks as her heart skipped a beat at the sight of him.

With a welcoming smile, Reid approached the Livingston family, his presence filling the air with an aura of sophistication and charisma. He greeted Bella's parents warmly, exchanging pleasantries and expressing his delight at their visit.

Then, his eyes turned to Bella, and for a moment, their gazes locked. At that instant, Bella felt a mixture of emotions—nervousness, admiration, and a sudden awareness of her own feelings. She had seen Reid in formal settings before, but seeing him in this more relaxed and natural state left her breathless.

"Bella" Reid said with a warm and rare smile as he extended his hand to her. "It's a pleasure to have you here. I hope you'll find your time on the island enjoyable. Congratulations on your graduation and your great results. I heard good news from your father."

Bella took his hand, her own fingers trembling slightly at the contact. She managed a small, polite smile and replied, "Thank you, Mr. Carter. I'm looking forward to the experience."

‘Non-sense, call me Reid’ he told her, in a relaxed manner.

Reid's presence continued to have an undeniable effect on Bella, leaving her flustered and feeling more self-conscious than usual. As the staff assisted with their luggage and ushered them to their accommodations, Bella couldn't help but steal a few more glances at Reid.

As they arrived at the entrance of the luxurious villa on Reid Carter's private island, Reid turned to the Livingston family with a warm and welcoming smile. The grandeur of the villa was matched only by the natural beauty of their surroundings, creating an idyllic atmosphere that seemed almost surreal.

"Welcome to my humble abode," Reid said, his voice carrying a hint of playfulness as he gestured toward the elegant villa. "Make yourselves at home. You'll find everything you need here to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable."

Bella's parents expressed their gratitude, appreciating the hospitality and the opportunity to experience the island firsthand. Their faces lit up with genuine smiles, and they seemed eager to relax and unwind in the luxurious surroundings.

"I hope you'll consider this place your home for the duration of your stay. If there's anything you'd like or need, don't hesitate to let the staff know."

Reid continued, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll let you freshen up and settle in. We'll reconvene for dinner later this evening, to say around 7pm? It would be my pleasure to host you and catch up properly."

The invitation to dine with Reid left Bella feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation. She had admired him from afar for so long, and now she would have the chance to get to know him better in a more relaxed setting.

With a final nod and a polite thank you, Bella and her family were shown to their accommodation.

Bella was led to a stunning room in Reid Carter's villa, and the moment she stepped inside, she couldn't help but be awed by its elegance and charm. The room was adorned with tasteful decorations, boasting a breathtaking view of the azure sea just beyond the windows. The warm Mediterranean breeze wafted through, carrying with it the scent of the sea, creating a tranquil ambiance that was nothing short of idyllic.

The furnishings were luxurious, with a plush king-sized bed dressed in crisp white linens, and a sitting area that overlooked a private terrace with an inviting view of the sea. The room was bathed in soft, natural light, giving it an ethereal quality that made Bella feel like she had stepped into a dream.

Unable to contain her excitement, Bella pulled out her phone and sent a text message to Lily, eager to share her arrival.

‘Hey, Lily! I had just arrived at Reid's private island. The place is amazing, and the villa is gorgeous.’

It didn't take long for Lily to respond, her message filled with playful teasing and curiosity.

‘ Wow, Bella! You must be thrilled. Tell me, how is it to be under the same roof as Mr. Hot? ?’

Bella chuckled at Lily's remark. Her friend never missed an opportunity to tease her about her long-standing crush on Reid, and this trip had given her plenty of ammunition.

‘ It's... well, it's something. Let's just say he's even more attractive in person. ?’

Lily's response was a series of enthusiastic emojis, conveying her excitement for Bella and the adventures that lay ahead.

‘?? You better keep me updated, girl! Have an amazing time and remember, if you get the chance, seize the moment! ?’

Bella couldn't help but smile at her friend's words. It was time to take that shower as it was already 6.15pm and she had to be ready in less than 1 hour.

: First evening in Greece

The Livingston family gathered in the opulent dining room of Reid Carter's villa for their first dinner on the private island. The room was adorned with intricate chandeliers, fine china, and crystal glassware, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance.

Reid, as the host, led the way, his charismatic presence commanding attention as they took their seats at the ornate dining table. The table was beautifully set, with candlelight casting a soft, romantic glow over the room.

As the first course was served, conversation flowed effortlessly. Richard Livingston and Reid Carter delved into discussions about their respective businesses, exchanging insights and ideas. It was clear that their friendship was built on mutual respect and shared interests.

Bella's mother, Isabella, seized an opportune moment during the conversation to broach a more personal topic. She leaned in slightly, her gaze focused on Reid, and asked with a knowing smile, "Reid, my dear friend, I can't help but wonder when we'll be hearing wedding bells. Any plans for a future Mrs. Carter?"

Reid's expression, for just a fraction of a second, shifted into a frown—a subtle, fleeting change in his demeanour that didn't escape Bella's notice. It was a rare glimpse into a side of Reid that she had seldom seen: vulnerability and guardedness.

He paused for a moment, his eyes seemingly distant, before replying in a measured tone, "Isabella, you know how dedicated I am to my work and my business ventures. At this time, I have no plans to involve a woman in my life."

Isabella nodded in understanding; her smile unwavering. "Well, Reid, you've always been a man who knows what he wants. But sometimes, life has a way of surprising us. You never know what the future holds."

Reid's response had been polite, yet it carried a cold undertone of detachment. Bella couldn't help but wonder about the reasons behind his reluctance and cold attitude towards the subject. It was a side of him she had rarely glimpsed, and it left her with a sense of curiosity and a desire to unravel the enigma that was Reid Carter.

Amidst the elegant ambiance of the dining room, as the dinner conversation flowed, Reid turned his attention toward Bella with genuine interest. His deep, enigmatic eyes fixed on her, he asked, "Bella, I'm curious about your plans for the future. Have you decided on your trajectory of studies and where you'll be continuing your education?"

Bella felt a mixture of surprise and flattery at the direct question from Reid. She knew that her academic and career choices had been a topic of discussion in her family, but it was different to have Reid inquire about it personally.

Before Bella could respond, her father, Richard, beamed with pride and interjected, "Reid, I'm delighted to say that Bella has received acceptance letters from all the top universities in their business management programs. She's quite an accomplished student, and we're in the process of deciding which one would be the best fit for her."

Reid nodded appreciatively at the news, acknowledging Bella's academic achievements. "That's impressive, Isabella. You have a bright future ahead of you, no doubt."

Bella couldn't help but feel a subtle pang of sadness deep within her. She understood that her father's intentions were rooted in his desire to see her succeed in a field he deemed practical and lucrative, but it was a choice that had been made without her input.

Her dreams of pursuing creative writing had always held a special place in her heart, a secret passion she had nurtured in the shadows. The weight of her family's expectations and their desire for her to follow in their business-oriented footsteps had left her feeling confined, as though her own aspirations were secondary to their ambitions.

At that moment, Bella couldn't help but wonder what Reid's reaction would be if she were to reveal her true desires—to pursue a path in creative writing, one that felt authentically her own. The thought of sharing her dreams with him, someone who had always fascinated and inspired her, was both thrilling and terrifying.

But she couldn't allow her vulnerability to show. As her family continued to discuss her future, Bella maintained the facade of the dutiful and perfect daughter. She forced a smile and nodded, offering words of gratitude and assurance, all the while concealing the inner turmoil she felt.

After the evening's elegant dinner and discussions about her future had come to a close, Bella retreated to her beautifully appointed room in Reid's villa. The luxurious surroundings, coupled with the evening’s conversation left her feeling restless despite the fatigue that tugged at her.

Lying in bed, she tossed and turned, the thoughts of her family's expectations and her own dreams swirling in her mind. The weight of her father's pride in her achievements was both a source of comfort and a burden, and she couldn't shake the sense of unease that had settled within her.

As the minutes turned into hours and sleep eluded her, Bella decided to take matters into her own hands. She slipped out of bed and quietly made her way to the terrace that overlooked the moonlit sea. The gentle breeze rustled the curtains as she stepped outside, the cool night air providing a welcome contrast to the warmth of her thoughts.

The moonlight gently illuminated the path as Bella quietly left the terrace and ventured down the hallway of Reid Carter's luxurious villa. Her steps were soft, and she moved with a sense of purpose as she made her way toward the kitchen.

As she entered the spacious, well-appointed kitchen, the warm, welcoming ambiance immediately enveloped her. Soft, indirect lighting bathed the room in a soft glow, casting a comforting aura over the space. The scent of the ocean air wafted through the open windows, mingling with the subtle aroma of fresh flowers that adorned the countertop.

Bella opened the refrigerator and surveyed its contents. Her eyes settled on a platter of freshly baked pastries, a tempting array of sweet treats that beckoned to her. The sight of the delicate pastries, filled with cream and dusted with powdered sugar, was irresistible.

She selected one of the pastries and placed it on a porcelain plate, the delicate china gleaming under the soft light. Next, she poured herself a glass of cold milk, craving the simple comfort of the familiar taste.

With her sweet treat and glass of milk in hand, Bella retreated to a cozy corner of the kitchen, where a small table and chairs provided a perfect setting for solitude. She settled into one of the chairs, the pastry flaky and delicious, the milk soothing her senses.

As she savoured the sweetness of the pastry, Bella allowed herself a moment of respite. The quiet of the night and the comfort of the kitchen offered solace, allowing her thoughts to wander and her worries to momentarily recede.

However, her peaceful interlude was interrupted when she noticed a subtle shift in the room's ambiance. The faint sound of footsteps, barely audible, drew her attention away from her pastry. Her heart skipped a beat when she realized that someone else had entered the kitchen.

In the dimly lit kitchen, Bella's eyes widened as she watched the figure move with an effortless grace, almost ethereal in the soft glow of the moonlight. Her breath caught in her throat when she recognized the familiar silhouette—it was Reid, dressed only in a pair of trousers, his muscular torso exposed.

Time seemed to stand still as Bella's gaze froze on Reid's physique. The contours of his well-defined muscles, the play of moonlight on his tanned skin, and the way his body moved with a natural grace left her in a state of awestruck admiration. Reid's attractiveness was undeniable, and the sight of him sent her senses into overdrive.

Bella couldn't tear her eyes away as she observed Reid's every movement—the casual way he opened the refrigerator, the effortless way he reached for a chilled bottle of water, and the way his body moved with confidence and ease. Her heart raced, and her thoughts became a whirlwind of emotions she struggled to contain.

In that fleeting moment, as Reid stood in the moonlit kitchen, he was an embodiment of charisma and allure, a presence that left Bella feeling both captivated and vulnerable. It was a sight she had never expected to witness, not even in her wildest dreams, and it stirred something within her, igniting a desire and curiosity that she couldn't deny.

Her long-standing crush on Reid had been a constant presence in her life, shaping her perception of romantic relationships. For years, she had admired Reid from a distance, captivated by his charisma, success, and sophistication. In her mind, he had set the standard for what she found attractive and desirable in a partner.

As a result, Bella had become somewhat immune to the advances of boys her own age. While her peers experimented with dating and teenage romance, she found herself unable to reciprocate their interest. In her eyes, the boys at school seemed immature and inexperienced compared to the enigmatic Reid.

The crush she harboured had cast a shadow over her romantic prospects, making it difficult for her to envision herself with someone her age. His image had become synonymous with her ideals of a partner. For Bella, the world of teenage romance paled in comparison to the allure of the older, more sophisticated man who had captured her heart. She couldn't fathom herself dating someone her age when her heart was so firmly set on Reid. This unrequited crush had become a significant barrier to forming connections with her peers, leaving her feeling somewhat isolated in matters of the heart.

As Reid closed the refrigerator door and turned to leave the moonlit kitchen, he moved with the same effortless grace that had initially drawn Bella's attention. His bare torso was bathed in the soft, silvery glow of the moonlight, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the darkness that surrounded him.

Reid's eyes, accustomed to the dimness of the kitchen, took a moment to adjust to the moonlit scene. And then, as if guided by an unseen force, his gaze settled on Bella. Their eyes met, and time seemed to stand still for a fleeting moment.

Bella's heart raced, her cheeks flushed, and her eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and desire. Reid's own expression, while difficult to decipher in the dim light, held a hint of intrigue, as if he had been caught off guard by the unexpected encounter.

Reid's voice, calm and concerned, broke the silence in the dimly lit kitchen.

"Isabella, are you okay? It's quite late to be up."

Bella, her heart still racing from their unexpected encounter, looked up at him with a mixture of surprise and vulnerability.

"I... I can't sleep."

Reid's brows furrowed slightly, his concern deepening as he took a step closer.

"All ok?"

Bella hesitated for a moment, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. She had never imagined having such a candid conversation with Reid, especially not in the middle of the night, shirtless in the moonlit kitchen.

Bella: "It's just... a lot of things. Family expectations, decisions about my future... It's all been weighing on me."

Reid regarded her with a thoughtful expression, his dark eyes holding a depth of understanding that surprised her.

Reid: "I see. It's natural to have doubts and questions about the future. Maybe a change of scenery can help clear your mind."

Bella offered a small, appreciative smile, grateful for his understanding and the unexpected connection they were sharing. She had never imagined she would ever have a conversation with him in the middle of the night.

Bella: "Thank you, Reid. I appreciate that."

Reid nodded, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer before he turned to leave the kitchen. As he disappeared into the shadows, Bella couldn't help but hear in her ears her heartbeats and feel her hands sweaty, her face burning from the interaction.

She has always been infatuated with him, and Lily told her that this would pass, that it was just a stage, but her reactions today left her more confused than ever.