Thunderstruck- Chapter 4
A/N: Okay guys back from the depths of grad school and strep throat hell…. Chapter starts where 3 left off (so if you wanna pre-game this by refreshing your memory I highly suggest that) and then there’s a bit of a jump to account for the gap between the end of the W season and Thanksgiving. Trying something new with times on texts bc there are lowkey a lot of them in this chapter. Also sorry didn’t edit so ignore any typos
WC: 11.1K
Content Warning: sexual content 18+ MDNI, language, I think that’s it
"You're so fucking beautiful," Paige murmurs as she watches Azzi walk through her bedroom door.
Azzi stepped closer, her hands sliding up Paige's arms, leaving goosebumps in their wake. "Stop talking and touch me."
That was all the permission Paige needed. She pulled Azzi against her, kissing her deeply as her hands found the hem of Azzi's top. She broke the kiss just long enough to pull it over Azzi's head, tossing it somewhere behind them. Azzi was wearing a white lace bra underneath, and Paige's breath caught in her throat.
"Fuck," she breathed, her hands tracing the delicate lace, feeling Azzi's warmth through the thin fabric. "You wore this for me?"
"I wore it hoping you'd take it off me," Azzi said, her voice low and teasing, but there was a vulnerability in her eyes that made Paige's heart skip a beat.
Paige groaned, her fingers finding the clasp at the back. "You're gonna be the death of me, Az, I swear to god." Her hands were shaking slightly as she worked the clasp, most definitely not from inexperience, but from the pure adrenaline coursing through her veins at the thought of making Azzi come undone.
She unhooked the bralette and let it fall, and then her hands were on Azzi's bare caramel skin, cupping her breasts, thumbs brushing over her nipples. Azzi's head fell back with a soft moan, and Paige took advantage, pressing kisses down her throat, across her collarbone, lower and lower. She could feel Azzi's pulse racing under her lips, could taste the salt of her skin with a slight sweetness from her lotion.
"Paige," Azzi breathed, her hands tangling in Paige's hair, holding her close.
Paige walked them backward toward the bed, her mouth never leaving Azzi's skin. When the back of Azzi's knees hit the mattress, Paige gently pushed her down, following her onto the bed. She settled between Azzi's thighs, her hands sliding up Azzi's sides as she kissed her way down her sternum, between her breasts, across her stomach. Every inch of skin she was re-discovered felt like it was the first time all over again. She’d never get tired of this. Of her.
"You taste so good," Paige murmured against Azzi's skin, her lips trailing lower. "I could do this all night."
"Please don't," Azzi said, her hips lifting slightly, seeking friction. "I need you now."
Paige smiled against Azzi's stomach, pressing a kiss just above the waistband of her jeans and just below her silver naval piercing. "Patience, baby. Remember?" She was trying to sound confident, in control, but inside she was trembling.
"I hate you," Azzi said, but there was no heat in it, just desperate need.
"No you don't," Paige said, popping the button on Azzi's pants. She pulled down the zipper slowly, torturously, watching Azzi's face the whole time, memorizing every expression. "You love this. You love it when I make you wait."
Azzi's breath hitched. "Paige."
"Tell me what you want," Paige said, hooking her fingers in the waistband of Azzi's pants and underwear. "Use your words." She needed to hear it, needed to know that Azzi wanted this as much as she did.
"I want you to fuck me," Azzi said, her voice shaking slightly. "I want your mouth on me. I want your fingers inside me. I want, fuck, Paige, please."
Paige pulled the pants and underwear down together in one smooth motion, tossing them on the floor below. She took a moment just to look at Azzi, spread out on her bed, completely bare, looking at her with such trust and desire that it made Paige's chest tight.
"You're perfect," Paige said softly, and she meant it in every possible way.
Azzi reached for her. "Come here."
Paige went, kissing Azzi deeply as she settled between her thighs again. Azzi's hands found the hem of Paige's shirt, tugging at it impatiently.
"Off," Azzi said against Paige's lips. "I want to feel you. All of you. Close to me."
Paige sat back just long enough to pull her shirt over her head, pulling off her sports bra and adding it to the makeshift laundry pile below. When she settled back down, the feeling of their bare skin pressed together made them both gasp. It was electric.
"God," Azzi breathed, her hands sliding down Paige's back, nails dragging lightly. "You feel so good."
Paige kissed her again, deep and slow, pouring everything she was feeling into it. Her hand slid down Azzi's body, tracing the curve of her hip, the inside of her thigh. When her fingers finally made contact, Azzi broke the kiss with a sharp intake of breath.
"Fuck, I love how wet you get for me," Paige murmured, her fingers sliding through Azzi's wetness. "All for me, right baby?"
"Yeah, P, fuck" Azzi whimpered, her hips rolling against Paige's hand.
Paige teased Azzi's clit slowly, the way she’s learned to do the last few weeks.
"Inside," Azzi breathed. "Please, Paige."
Paige slid two fingers inside her, and Azzi's back arched off the bed, a low moan escaping her lips. Paige started moving slowly, curling her fingers up towards Azzi’s cervix. Azzi had now moved her own hand to her clit, which usually Paige would take offense to but the sight was so beautiful she didn’t care. She could feel Azzi's walls clenching around her fingers, could feel how close she already was to releasing.
"Like this?" Paige asked, her voice low, though she already knew the answer from the way Azzi was responding.
"Yes," Azzi gasped. "Yes, just like that. Don't stop. Please don't stop."
If nothing else, Paige had learned she loved listening to Azzi and thus, she had absolutely no intention of stopping. Azzi’s free hand clutched at Paige’s sheets as she let her moans tumble out of her.
"Fuck, baby," Azzi moaned, her voice cracking. "God damnit, Paige, I'm—"
"I know, baby," Paige murmured against her skin. "You gonna cum on my fingers, Princess? I can feel it. You're so close. Let go for me baby."
She increased the pressure slightly, her fingers moving faster, and Azzi shattered. Her whole body tensed, her back arching, her thighs trembling as she came hard around Paige's fingers.
Paige worked her through it, and Azzi could feel the blonde’s smirk between her legs as she came down.
"Holy shit," Azzi breathed when she could speak again, her chest still heaving. "That was–"
"We're not done," Paige said, that wicked smile on her face. Azzi was still trembling, but she wanted more. And Paige wanted to give Azzi everything.
She looked up at Azzi, meeting her eyes, asking permission one more time even though she already had it.
"Can I?" Paige asked, her voice soft.
"Please," Azzi said, her voice already breathless again. "Please, Paige."
Paige lowered her head, her tongue making first contact, and Azzi's hands immediately flew to Paige's hair. Paige was already addicted to the taste of her, to the sounds she made, to the way her thighs trembled and squeezed against her temples.
"Fuck," Azzi breathed, her fingers tightening in Paige's hair. "Your mouth, P. God, your mouth is so–.”
Paige hummed against her, the slight vibration making Azzi's hips buck into the blonde’s face. She slid her fingers back inside, her tongue lapping at Azzi's clit, and Azzi was already close again, her thighs trembling on either side of Paige's head.
"Don't fucking stop," Azzi gasped. "You’re gonna make me cum again, fuck."
Paige didn't stop. Although this time as her fingers curled inside Azzi, the pleasure crested into something different, something Azzi (and Paige) hadn't experienced before. Azzi’s legs shook around Paige’s head as her body tensed. In an instant, the tension snapped with Paige’s name on her lips and a flood of sensation left her. She squirted against Paige's mouth and hand, crying out, completely overwhelmed by the intensity of it. Paige didn't pull back, though, despite the slight surprise. Instead she was moaning against Azzi’s core and her hands had dug into meat on Azzi’s thighs keeping her steady so she could have every drop of the dancer’s juices. Azzi felt like she was flying and shattering all at once.
When Azzi's breathing had slowed slightly, Paige crawled back up her body, kissing her softly as she made her way to the brunette’s lips.
"Oh my god," Azzi whispered against Paige's wet mouth, suddenly going rigid. "I'm so sorry, I—that's never happened before and I'm so embarrassed—"
Paige pulled back just enough to look at her, her eyes dark and serious. "Azzi. Holy fuck. That was… That was the hottest thing I've ever seen in my entire life. Don’t fucking apologize."
Azzi's eyes went wide. "Really?"
"Really," Paige said, moving to kiss her forehead, her cheeks, her lips. "You have no idea. That was so fucking hot. The fact that I made you feel that good?" She shook her head, still visibly affected. "Thank you God," she looked up to the sky jokingly which got a laugh out of Azzi.
"I'm still embarrassed," Azzi admitted softly, but she was smiling now.
"Don't be," Paige said firmly, kissing her again deeply. "That was incredible. You're incredible. And now I'm gonna spend the rest of my life trying to make that happen again."
Azzi laughed, a real laugh this time, the tension breaking, but then her expression turned serious again, her eyes darkening. "Your turn."
"Lord, I am so blessed," Paige whispered as Azzi rolled her onto her back.
"I've been thinking about this all night. About getting my mouth on you. About making you feel as good as you just made me feel."
Paige's breath caught. "Az,"
"Shh," Azzi said, straddling Paige's hips. She leaned down, kissing Paige deeply as her hands slid down to the button of Paige's jeans. "Let me take care of you."
She made quick work of Paige's pants and boxers Then she was kissing her way down Paige's body, taking her time, her mouth hot against Paige's skin.
"You're so sexy, P," Azzi murmured, her hands sliding up Paige's thighs. "I love your body. I love the way you make me feel. I love," She paused, and Paige's heart skipped. "I love this. Us."
"Azzi," Paige breathed, her hips lifting slightly. "Please."
Azzi smiled against Paige's hip bone. "I love when you beg."
Then her mouth was on Paige, and Paige's whole world narrowed to the feeling of Azzi's tongue, Azzi's lips, Azzi's fingers. She was good at this, so fucking good, and Paige was already embarrassingly close.
"Fuck," Paige gasped, her hands finding Azzi's curls. "Baby, that's—mmm God—"
Azzi hummed against her, the vibration sending shockwaves through Paige's body. She slid one finger inside, curling it up into her core and getting Paige's back to arch off the bed.
"Right there," Paige moaned. "Fuck me just like that, baby."
Paige’s orgasm hit before she could even announce it.
"Hi," Azzi said, smiling as she got out from between the blonde’s legs.
"God damn," Paige breathed.
Paige’s hand, trembling, reached for Azzi’ cheek. She pulled the brunette down for another kiss, deep and slow. "You are incredible."
They lay there for a while, just kissing, hands wandering lazily over each other's bodies. Eventually, Azzi rolled onto her side, propping her head up on her hand.
"So," she said, her fingers tracing patterns on Paige's stomach. "That happened."
Paige laughed. "Mhm. Are you complaining?"
"Absolutely not," Azzi said. She leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Paige's shoulder. "That was... really good, Paige."
"Just really good?" Paige teased.
Azzi rolled her eyes. "Fine. That was mind-blowing, earth-shattering, life-changing, top tier lesbian sex. Better?"
"Much," Paige said, pulling Azzi closer. "And for the record, I agree. That was... yeah. That was something else."
They were quiet for a moment, just holding each other. Paige felt different somehow, like something fundamental had shifted. She'd had sex before, obviously, but this was different. This was Azzi. This mattered way more than any of her previous hookups.
Then Azzi spoke, her voice soft. "Can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Paige said, meaning it.
"What are we doing?" Azzi asked. "Like, I know we're... whatever this is. But what does that mean? What do you want it to be?"
Paige was quiet for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "I want this to be real," she said finally. "I want to see where it goes. I want to take you on dates and hold your hand and kiss you whenever I want. I want…" She paused, her heart racing. "I want you, Azzi."
Azzi's eyes were shining. "I want that too," she said softly. "I want all of that."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah," Azzi confirmed. She leaned in, kissing Paige softly. "I really like you, Paige. Like, a lot. And this," She gestured between them. "This feels kinda different."
"It does," Paige agreed. "I've never felt like this about anyone before."
"Me neither," Azzi admitted. She snuggled closer, her head on Paige's chest. "This is kind of scary."
"Yeah," Paige said, pressing a kiss to the top of Azzi's head. "But it's a good kind of scary, right?"
"The best kind," Azzi murmured.
________________________
Paige woke up to the smell of coffee and the sound of someone moving around in her kitchen. She stretched, wincing slightly at the pleasant soreness in her muscles, which she couldn’t identify as basketball soreness or lesbian soreness. Before limping to the kitchen she grabbed an old UConn t-shirt from her dresser.
Azzi was standing at the counter, wearing one of Paige's hoodies and nothing else, her curls piled on top of her head in a messy bun. She was humming Kehlani softly to herself as she poured coffee into two mugs.
"Morning," Paige said, leaning against the doorframe, just taking in the sight of her.
Azzi turned, her face lighting up. "Morning. Hope you don't mind… I kinda raided your closet."
"I definitely don't mind," Paige said, crossing the kitchen to wrap her arms around Azzi from behind. "You look better in my clothes than I do."
Azzi laughed, leaning back against her. "You said it, not me."
Paige laughed and pressed a kiss to Azzi's neck. "Coffee smells good."
"I figured we could both use some caffeine after last night," Azzi said, turning in Paige's arms. "You wore me out."
"Pretty sure it was mutual," Paige said, grinning.
Azzi handed her a mug, and they moved to the couch, settling in together. Paige pulled a blanket over them, and Azzi curled into her side.
"I have rehearsal later," Azzi said. "For the Thanksgiving show."
"Right," Paige said. "That’a crazy you’re in prep for something a over a month away."
"P, it’s Beyoncé. I’d be crashing out if we weren’t already preparing. I need to be locked. I'm so nervous. What if I mess up? What if I am the worst dancer that has ever shared the stage with Queen Bey? What if.."
"Slow down, Az,” Paige placed her hand on Azzi’s arms. “You won't mess up," she said. "You're an incredible dancer, Az. You're gonna kill it."
Azzi exhaled and let a small smile show before pressing a kiss to Paige's jaw. "Thanks, baby."
The pet name made Paige's heart skip. "Say that again."
"What, baby?" Azzi asked, grinning. "You like that?"
"Maybe," Paige admitted, her pale cheeks now blushing.
"Good," Azzi said. "Because I plan on saying it a lot."
They spent the morning on the couch, laughing and talking and kissing and enjoying each other's company. Eventually, Azzi had to leave for rehearsal, but not before making Paige promise to text her later.
"I will," Paige said, kissing her at the door. "Have a good practice."
Azzi giggled at Paige’s refusal to call it rehearsal. "I'll try," she said. She kissed Paige one more time, slow and sweet. "Last night was really special, Paige. Thank you."
"Thank you," Paige said softly. "For trusting me. For being here."
Azzi smiled, her eyes soft. "Nowhere else I'd rather be."
After Azzi left, Paige floated through the rest of her day. Their game against the Sky was the last one at home, but the Wings still had a road trip to New York and Connecticut to close out the season. Going back to where she went to college was quite literally the only thing pulling her through the slog of the season. Well, that and the cheerleader she’d get to come home to afterwards.
As she walked into the practice facility for rehab, Arike immediately noticed something was different.
"You're glowing, PSki," Arike said, narrowing her eyes as they trudged towards the training room. "What happened?"
"Nothing," Paige said, trying and failing to suppress her smile.
"Bullshit," Arike said. "You and Miss Azzi had a fun night, huh?"
Paige's face heated. "Maybe."
"Oh my god," Arike said, her eyes widening. "My Rook is all grown up,” she jokingly placed her hand on her heart.
"Bruh you gotta chill," Paige said, laughing. "For real tho, this girl is one of one,” she almost whispered.
Arike reached her hand out and placed it on the blonde’s shoulder. “Imma be honest, that’s the same simp shit I was on when I started talkin’ to Lala. So… don’t fumble."
"Shut up, Rik, I'm not gonna fumble. " Paige said, but she was smiling.
"So are y’all like together now or what?" Arike asked.
"I dunno," Paige admitted. "We talked about wanting to see where this goes, but we didn't put a label on it or anything like that."
"Why not?" Arike asked.
Paige shrugged. "I guess I didn't want to rush it. Don’t wanna freak her out. Wanna do it right, you know?"
"I get that," Arike said. "But P, you're clearly crazy about her. And from what I saw in the tunnel last night, she's crazy bout you too. Don't overthink it."
Paige dropped her head in her hands to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks.
"Look, all I'm sayin is when you know, you know. And it seems like you know, bro."
Paige was quiet for a moment, which was quite unusual for her. "Yeah," she said softly. "I think I do know."
"Then don't wait too long to tell her that," Arike said. "Life's too short."
"Since when are you like Gay Yoda, bruh" Paige jokes.
"That might be the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me, PSki." Arike smiled wide. “I’ve been sayin’ philosophical shit tho,” she flipped her hair dramatically. "You just never listened before."
"Whatever, bro,” Paige smiled as she bumped Arike’s shoulder and made her way to the cold tubs.
___________________________
Later that week…
Azzi (7:23 AM): good morninggg i’m heading out
Azzi (7:45 AM): just got to rehearsal and i'm already exhausted
Azzi (7:46 AM): kelcey said we're running the opening sequence like 50 times today fml
Azzi (8:12 AM): update my legs are gonna fall off
Azzi (8:13 AM): but in a good way?
Azzi (8:13 AM): is there a good way for your legs to fall off
Azzi (8:14 AM): i'm delirious ignore me
Azzi (8:15 AM): actually don't ignore me
Paige (8:17 AM): only been like 9 hours az
Azzi (8:18 AM): 9 hours too long
Azzi (8:18 AM): is that clingy? that feels clingy
Paige (8:18 AM): nah baby that's perfect
Paige (8:18 AM): i miss you too
Paige (8:19 AM): even tho you're being dramatic as hell rn
Azzi (8:19 AM): wow ok rude
Azzi (8:19 AM): i keep thinking about yesterday
Azzi (8:19 AM): before you so rudely had to leave to “pack”
Paige (8:20 AM): i’m sorryyyy i have a Nike thing so needed to get all the stuff Brittany sent
Azzi (8:20 AM): ok Miss Big Time Nike
Paige (8:20 AM): Nike money pays for our little dates sooo don’t complain
Azzi (8:20 AM): ugh. you’re right
Paige (8:20 AM): so what are you thinking about…
Azzi (8:21 AM): how you looked at me
Azzi (8:21 AM): how you touched me
Azzi (8:22 AM): how you made me feel
Paige (8:23 AM): my teammates gonna clown me for blushing on this plane
Azzi (8:24 AM): good
Azzi (8:24 AM): i like knowing i affect you like that
Paige (8:25 AM): you affect me in every way possible az
Azzi (8:26 AM): 😉
Azzi (8:26 AM): that's so sweet
Azzi (8:27 AM): okay i have to get back but i'm thinking about you
Paige (8:28 AM): think about me during the hard parts
Paige (8:28 AM): might make them easier
Azzi (8:29 AM): or harder
Azzi (8:29 AM): in a different way
Paige (8:30 AM): 😌
Azzi (8:31 AM): okay bye before i say something that makes me act up
Paige (8:31 AM): text me later?
Azzi (8:32 AM): always
Azzi (9:34 AM): break time
Azzi (9:35 AM): i miss your face
Azzi (9:35 AM): and your hands
Azzi (9:36 AM): and other things but i'm trying to be wholesome
Paige (9:37 AM): you can be unwholesome with me
Paige (9:37 AM): i don't mind 🙈
Azzi (9:38 AM): paige bueckers you're gonna get me in trouble
Azzi (9:38 AM): i'm supposed to be focusing on choreography
Paige (9:39 AM): then focus
Paige (9:39 AM): but know that i'm thinking about you
Paige (9:40 AM): thinking about how soft your skin is
Paige (9:40 AM): how you sound when i touch you
Azzi (9:41 AM): PAIGE
Azzi (9:41 AM): i'm literally in the middle of the studio
Azzi (9:42 AM): everyone can see me
Paige (9:43 AM): good
Paige (9:43 AM): let em know you're mine
Azzi (9:44 AM): 😳😳😳
Azzi (9:45 AM): oh! it’s like that huh
Azzi (9:45 AM): we need to talk about this possessive thing you have going on
Paige (9:46 AM): we can talk ab it when i get back
Paige (9:46 AM): for now just know i mean it
Azzi (9:47 AM): i like it
Azzi (9:47 AM): more than i probably should
Azzi (9:48 AM): okay reece is yelling at me but thank you for the distraction
Azzi (9:49 AM): and the butterflies
Paige (9:50 AM): anytime baby
Azzi (11:46 AM): lunch break finally
Azzi (11:47 AM): this choreo is INSANE
Azzi (11:47 AM): like i knew it would be hard but holy shit
Azzi (11:48 AM): how's new york? flight ok?
Paige (11:55 AM): cold as hell ngl
Paige (11:55 AM): flight was good tho except Rik was lowkey snoring
Azzi (11:56 AM): you should be nice to her p last time I checked she was the one that said i’m ur good luck charm…
Paige (11:57 AM): ughhh you’re right
Azzi (11:57 AM): better not be any courtside baddies there for you at Barclays
Paige (11:58 AM): azzi fudd are you.. jealous? 👀
Azzi (11:59 AM): i plead the fifth
Azzi (12:00 PM): ok i gotta get back to rehearsal but we get released at 6 so just in time to watch the game
Azzi (12:00 PM): text me after? i wanna hear all about it
Paige (12:00 PM): of course
Paige (12:00 PM): keep killin it az
Azzi (12:01 PM): i'll try
Paige (12:01 PM): i’ll miss my fav cheerleader tn
Azzi (12:01 PM): you’ll hear me cheering from dallas
Dallas ended up losing by 7 to the Liberty. In all honesty, the game went better than anybody had predicted. Paige ended with a 29 point double-double, but it wasn’t enough to combat Stewie and Sabrina.
Paige (9:47 PM): hi
Paige (9:47 PM): heading to hotel now
Paige (9:47 PM): don’t rly wanna talk ab the game but just know i missed you for sure
Paige (9:48 PM): is that weird?
Azzi (9:52 PM): not weird at all
Azzi (9:52 PM): i won’t push but just know i’m proud of you
Azzi (9:52 PM): in bed and can’t stop thinking about you
Azzi (9:53 PM): rehearsal kicked my ass today
Azzi (9:53 PM): i can barely move
Paige (9:54 PM): wish i was there to give you a massage
Azzi (9:55 PM): is that what we're calling it now?
Paige (9:55 PM): i mean i'd actually give you a massage
Paige (9:56 PM): but if it led to other things i wouldn't complain
Azzi (9:57 PM): when do you get back?
Paige (10:00 PM): we play in connecticut tomorrow night then fly back thurs morning
Azzi (10:01 PM): that's so far away
Paige (10:02 PM): it's literally two days baby
Azzi (10:02 PM): TOO LONG
Azzi (10:03 PM): i'm being dramatic again aren't i
Paige (10:03 PM): yeah but it's cute
Paige (10:04 PM): i like that you miss me
Azzi (10:05 PM): well get used to it because i'm gonna miss you a lot
Azzi (10:05 PM): wait that sounded less intense in my head
Paige (10:06 PM): nah i love it
Paige (10:06 PM): i'm gonna miss you a lot too
Paige (10:06 PM): can i call you? just got to room
Almost immediately after hitting send her phone started vibrating. Paige and Azzi stayed up another two hours (accidentally), with Azzi talking about the choreography, about how nervous she was, about how Beyoncé had actually spoken to her directly today and how she would’ve passed out and thrown up if Ariel hadn’t held her up. Eventually, Paige opened up more and told her about the game, which she usually didn’t like to do after a loss.
"God, I wish you were here," Paige said softly, lying in her hotel bed in the dark. "Me too," Azzi replied, her voice noticeably sleepy. "What would we do if I was there?" "Honestly? Prolly just this. Talking. Maybe order room service. Watch a movie." "That sounds perfect." "Yeah?"
"Yeah. I don't need to do anything fancy with you, P. I just like being around you."
Paige's chest tightened. "I like being around you too, Az. Like, a lot."
"Good," Azzi murmured. "Because you're stuck with me now."
"I can think of worse things to be stuck with."
Azzi laughed softly. "Wow, so romantic."
"Shut up, you know what I mean."
"Yeah I do," Azzi said, and Paige could hear the smile in her voice.
They talked until it was abundantly clear Azzi fell asleep, and even then Paige stayed on the line for a few more minutes, just listening to her breathe. She’d always thought it was cringe and weird when people did that, but that was before she met her. Now she fully understood.
Azzi (10:23 AM): good luck tonight baby
Azzi (10:23 AM): homecomingggg
Paige (10:45 AM): thanks az 💙
Paige (10:46 AM): gonna be weird playing at mohegan
Paige (10:46 AM): so close to uconn but not actually there
Azzi (10:47 AM): you miss it?
Paige (10:48 AM): yeah
Paige (10:48 AM): but also like, i'm exactly where i'm supposed to be rn you know?
Azzi (10:49 AM): i get that
Azzi (10:50 AM): i feel the same way about dallas
Azzi (10:50 AM): like i miss arlington and baton rouge sometimes but this feels right
Paige (10:51 AM): yeah exactly
Paige (10:52 AM): plus dallas has you so
Azzi (10:53 AM): ok rizz
Paige (10:53 AM): just being honest
Azzi (10:55 AM): ok i gotta go, we're running full out today
Azzi (10:55 AM): wish me luck
Paige (10:56 AM): you don't need luck baby you're incredible
Paige (10:56 AM): but break a leg (don’t actually tho)
The Connecticut air was just different. Paige joked with her teammates at shootaround in New York that she already felt it in her bones, but damn she actually backed it up after dropping 32 and ending the season on a (rare) Wings win. Some of her old UConn coaches and her younger teammates had come to watch, and it was times like these that made her really miss how things used to be.But even surrounded by friends and by her past, Paige found herself checking her phone constantly, waiting for Azzi to text.
Azzi (11:34 PM): literally just got home
Azzi (11:34 PM): i'm dead
Azzi (11:35 PM): like actually deceased cannot move
Azzi (11:35 PM): how was the game?
Paige (11:36 PM): it was good. saw coach and some of the girls
Paige (11:36 PM): you okay? prob exhausted
Azzi (11:37 PM): i am but in a good way
Azzi (11:38 PM): we ran the full performance three times today
Azzi (11:38 PM): and beyoncé gave me notes directly
Azzi (11:39 PM): BEYONCÉ GAVE ME NOTES PAIGE
Paige (11:39 PM): that's amazing baby!!!
Paige (11:40 PM): what did she say?
Azzi (11:41 PM): she said i have “beautiful lines” and my energy is “infectious”
Azzi (11:41 PM): i literally almost cried
Azzi (11:42 PM): actually i did cry a little bit in the bathroom after
Paige (11:43 PM): az let’s fucking GO that is so sick
Paige (11:43 PM): i'm so proud of you
Azzi (11:44 PM): thanks baby
Azzi (11:45 PM): wish you were here to celebrate with me
Paige (11:46 PM): i'll be home tmr morning
Paige (11:46 PM): i'll take you out to celebrate properly
Azzi (11:47 PM): you don't have to do that
Paige (11:47 PM): i want to
Paige (11:48 PM): lemme take you on a proper fancy date
Azzi (11:49 PM): okay
Azzi (11:49 PM): i'd like that
Paige (11:50 PM): good
Paige (11:50 PM): now get some sleep baby
Paige (11:52 PM): we can talk tomorrow
Paige (11:52 PM): i promise
Azzi (11:53 PM): okay
Azzi (11:53 PM): goodnight paige
Azzi (11:54 PM): sweet dreams
Paige (11:54 PM): goodnight az
Paige (11:55 PM): dream about me!
Azzi (11:55 PM): so humble
Paige got back to Dallas Thursday morning, exhausted but buzzing with anticipation. She'd barely dropped her bags at her apartment before she was texting Azzi.
Paige (10:35 AM): just landed
Paige (10:35 AM): when can i see you?
Azzi (10:36 AM): desperate much?
Paige (10:36 AM): for you? lowkey down bad…
Azzi (10:37 AM): i have rehearsal until 5
Azzi (10:37 AM): but i'm free after?
Paige (10:38 AM): perfect
Paige (10:38 AM): pick you up at 7?
Azzi (10:39 AM): it's a date
Paige spent the entire afternoon trying not to be nervous, which was stupid because not only had she already slept with Azzi multiple times, but before the roadtrip they literally had a conversation about the fact both wanted this to be real.
She changed outfits three times before settling on black pants and a crochet cream-colored button-up, leaving the top button undone. Definitely on the casual side but still put-together. She checked her hair in the mirror approximately thirteen times before just surrendering to the masc lesbian slick back low bun.
When she pulled up to Azzi's apartment at 7 PM sharp, Azzi was waiting outside, and Paige's breath caught. She was wearing a burgundy dress that hugged her curves perfectly, her curls loose and wild around her shoulders. She looked absolutely fucking stunning.
"Hi," Azzi said, sliding into the passenger seat with a smile that made Paige's heart race.
"Hey," Paige barely choked the word out. "God, I missed you."
"I could say the same" Azzi said, her eyes trailing over Paige appreciatively.
They went to a nice Italian restaurant in downtown Dallas. They had somehow perfected their banter to include just the right amount of ragebaiting and shameless flirting.
"So tell me more about the Beyoncé thing," Paige said between bites of pasts. "I wanna hear everything."
Azzi's face lit up. "It's insane, P. Like, if I told twelve year old me that I was sharing the stage with fucking Beyoncé… I would’ve died. Kelcey and Reece are basically on heart attack watch between breaks now.” She shook her head. "She's just on another level. The vocals, the look, the aura… God she is just everything I've ever wanted to be as a dancer."
"You're already incredible," Paige said softly.
"Thanks, baby," Azzi said, reaching across the table to take Paige's hand. "But this is like... this is the dream, you know? Dancing with Beyoncé Knowles on Thanksgiving at a Cowboys game? I never thought I'd actually get to do something like this."
"You deserve it," Paige said firmly. "You're one of the most talented dancers I've ever seen."
"You've seen like three dancers in your life," Azzi teased.
"Doesn't matter. You're still the best."
Azzi squeezed her hand. "You're sweet."
Eventually, they ended up back at Paige's apartment, curled up on the couch with a movie playing that neither of them was really watching.
"I missed this," Azzi murmured, her head on Paige's shoulder. "Just being with you."
"Me too," Paige said, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Four days felt like forever." "Right?" Azzi tilted her head up to look at Paige. "Is that crazy?" "If it is, guess they gotta lock both of us up," Paige said, leaning down to kiss her softly.
The kiss deepened quickly, and soon Azzi was straddling Paige's lap, her hands in Paige's hair, both of them breathing hard.
"Bedroom?" Azzi breathed against Paige's lips.
"I thought you’d never ask," Paige whispered, standing up with Azzi's legs wrapped around her waist.
Late October brought cooler weather and a shift in their relationship that Paige couldn't quite name with a label but could definitely feel. They were together constantly now, Paige chatting it up with the DCC girls at the practice facility after rehearsals, 24-hour (very lesbian) dates on Azzi’s off days, the whole nine.
They had made plans to spend a Tuesday night watching some movie adaptation of a book Azzi read.
Over the past few months, Paige had developed some sort of Pavlovian response every time she heard a knock at her door. She would scamper down the hall (like a dog, really) and try to open her door before Azzi even finished her third knock. This time, Paige opened it to find Azzi standing there with a bouquet of mixed asters, looking nervous and beautiful and perfect.
"Hi," Azzi said softly.
"Hi," Paige replied, staring at the flowers. "Are those... for me?"
"Yeah," Azzi said, holding them out. "Reece had to go to the florist to film something for her TikTok this week, and then I saw them and thought of you. They’re white and purple and I know you love purple so," She trailed off, blushing. "I dunno, I’ve been such a mess with all this rehearsal stuff and Reece told me to get them so I did"
Paige took the flowers with shaking hands, her eyes suddenly welling up. "No one's ever brought me flowers before," she said quietly.
Azzi's eyes widened. "Really?"
"Really," Paige confirmed, looking down at the bouquet. "I've brought flowers for other people, but no one's ever ya know,." She looked back up at Azzi, a tear sliding down her cheek. "Thank you."
"Baby," Azzi said, stepping inside and closing the door behind her. She cupped Paige's face, wiping away the tear with her thumb. "Don't cry."
"I'm not crying, bro" Paige said, even as more tears fell. "This is really sweet, Az."
"You deserve flowers," Azzi said firmly. "You deserve all the flowers and all the rom-com stuff, P. You deserve everything."
Paige set the flowers down on the kitchen table and pulled Azzi into a tight hug, burying her face in her neck. "How are you so perfect?" she mumbled.
"I'm not perfect," Azzi said, her arms wrapping around Paige.
"Perfect for me,” Paige whispered.
"Come on," Azzi said, taking Paige's hand. "Let's put these in water and then I want to show you how much I missed you today."
Paige let Azzi lead her to the kitchen, but unfortunately a pint glass was the closest thing she had to a vase at her disposal. Azzi made a mental note to get vase recommendations from Reece, but that was a later problem. Right now all she could think about was being with Paige.
Their movie night plans were a wash the second Azzi stepped through the door, so instead they spent the majority of the night in Paige’s bed (shoutout Tempur-Pedic). Azzi was gentle and attentive as always, her hands and mouth worshipping every inch of Paige's skin. And when Paige returned the favor, she poured everything she was feeling into it. She always gets clowned for saying she’s in a state of gratitude, but that’s exactly how she felt. Grateful. Terrified about the fact that she was certainly falling in love with Azzi, but grateful.
"Thank you for the flowers," Paige said softly, her fingers tracing up Azzi's stomach after they had finished. "Really. That meant a lot."
"You don’t have to thank me,” Azzi said, pressing a kiss to Paige's collarbone. "I want to do things like that for you. I want to make you feel special."
"You do," Paige assured her. "Just by being here, you do."
They were quiet for a moment, and then Azzi spoke again, her voice soft and a little uncertain. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course, baby."
"What are your plans for Thanksgiving?"
Paige thought about it. "Honestly? I don't really have any. Season’s over by then and I think my Dad and Drew have some boys’ trip planned, so I was just planning to watch the Cowboys. Maybe attempt to cook a turkey, though that would probably end in disaster."
Azzi laughed. "Please don't cook a turkey. I don't want you to burn down your apartment."
"YouTube exists for a reason bro," Paige giggled.
"Welllll, DCC has this big Thanksgiving dinner after the game. It's kind of a tradition. And everyone gets to bring a plus-one." She paused, suddenly looking nervous. "Would you want to come? With me?"
Paige's heart skipped. "You want me to come to your team Thanksgiving?"
"Yeah," Azzi said. "I mean, if you want to. No pressure. I just thought it might be nice, and it will spare the Dallas Fire Department a holiday house call."
Paige grinned. "Are you asking me to be your plus-one, Azzi Fudd?"
"I am," Azzi said, biting her lip. "Is that okay?"
"That's more than okay," Paige said, pulling Azzi down for a peck. "I'd love to come."
"Yeah?"
"Mhm. Plus, that means I get to watch you perform with Beyoncé."
Azzi's dimples were prominent as she grinned. "I'm so fucking nervous"
"You're gonna be amazing," Paige said firmly. "I know you are."
"I hope so," Azzi said, settling back down against Paige's chest. "I just don't want to mess up."
"You won't mess up," Paige said, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "You're gonna kill it like you always do. And if you get nervous just find me in the stands and picture me naked or something."
Azzi laughed softly. "Why would I do that when I can see you naked up close and personal right now.”
Paige giggled.
"This is everything I've ever wanted,” Azzi said as Paige shut her eyes. She didn’t know if she meant Paige, the performance, or both.
______________________
Two days before Thanksgiving, Paige woke up with a mission. She needed to figure out how to ask Azzi to be her girlfriend officially. To everyone but each other, they were basically already dating. But Paige wanted to make it official, wanted to be able to call Azzi her girlfriend without any uncertainty.
The problem was, she had no fucking idea how to do it. So she did what she always does in a time of peril… text Nika and KK.
Paige (9:47 AM): yo i need help
KK (9:48 AM): uh oh boogers this must be important
Paige (9:49 AM): how do i ask someone to be my girlfriend
Nika (9:50 AM): WAIT
Nika (9:50 AM): ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT THE CHEERLEADER
KK (9:51 AM): OH SHIT
KK (9:51 AM): PAIGEY IS IN LOVE
Paige (9:52 AM): i didn't say that bruh
Nika (9:52 AM): you didn't have to
Nika (9:53 AM): we are smart
Paige (9:54 AM): whatever
Paige (9:54 AM): can you guys help me or not
KK (9:55 AM): okay okay sorry we’re just excited
KK (9:55 AM): does she know you want to make it official?
Paige (9:56 AM): i mean we've talked about wanting to see where this goes
Paige (9:56 AM): and we're basically already dating
Paige (9:57 AM): but no label
Nika (9:58 AM): so ask her
Nika (9:58 AM): just be direct
Nika (9:59 AM): "hey i really like you and i want you to be my girlfriend"
Paige (10:00 AM): that feels way too simple
KK (10:01 AM): sometimes simple is good
KK (10:01 AM): you don't need some elaborate plan
KK (10:02 AM): just tell her how you feel bruh
Paige (10:03 AM): but what if she says no
Nika (10:04 AM): she's NOT gonna say no twin
KK (10:05 AM): girl boo you're overthinking this P
KK (10:05 AM): just ask her
Paige (10:06 AM): okay but WHEN
Paige (10:06 AM): like do i plan something special or just do it randomly
Nika (10:07 AM): when's the next time you're seeing her?
Paige (10:08 AM): thanksgiving
Paige (10:08 AM): she’s performing w beyoncé at the cowboys game
Paige (10:09 AM): and then she invited me to the DCC thanksgiving dinner after
KK (10:10 AM): DAYUM OK MISS GIRL
KK (10:10 AM): ask her after the performance
KK (10:11 AM): she'll be all hyped up and happy
Nika (10:12 AM): agreed
Paige (10:13 AM): you think?
Nika (10:14 AM): trust me P
Nika (10:14 AM): just tell her how you feel
Nika (10:15 AM): the worst thing that can happen is she says she needs more time
Nika (10:15 AM): but i rly don't think that's gonna happen twin
KK (10:16 AM): we believe in you
Paige (10:17 AM): thanks guys
Paige (10:17 AM): i'm still nervous as hell but thanks
Nika (10:18 AM): you should be nervous
Nika (10:18 AM): it means you care
KK (10:19 AM): nika since when are u soft
Nika (10:19 AM): shut up
Nika (10:20 AM): seriously P
Nika (10:20 AM): you deserve to be happy
KK (10:23 AM): go get your girlllll
Paige (10:24 AM): thanks for the pep talk miss u guys
Nika (10:25 AM): anytime twin
Nika (10:25 AM): now go plan what you're gonna say
KK (10:26 AM): tell us how it goes!!!
Paige (10:27 AM): i will i promise
On Thanksgiving Day, Paige got to AT&T Stadium early. She’d spent the last 2 days hyperventilating, but now that the day was here she couldn’t even think about that conversation. Or even about football. All she could think about was seeing Azzi dance on that massive stage with her literal idol.
When halftime finally arrived, Paige's heart was pounding, almost harder than it was before her National Championship game in college. The crowd roared as the opening notes of "Formation" filled the stadium. Then the DCC shuffled across the field as the lights went up.
When the spotlight hit Beyoncé, the stadium shook. But Paige had her eye on a different dancer. Azzi was front and center hitting every move perfectly. God, she was incredible.
Paige could see the joy on Azzi's face. This was Azzi in her element, doing what she was born to do, and Paige had never been more attracted to her (although at this point she had that same feeling every time she saw her).
When the medley ended, Paige found herself hooting and hollering like a lunatic. She could’ve sworn Azzi picked her out in the crowd and winked before walking off the field.
Paige made her way down towards the tunnel with 5 minutes left in the 4th quarter.
After about 15 minutes of bouncing on her toes like an excited toddler, Azzi appeared, still in her performance outfit. When she saw Paige, her entire face lit up.
"Paigey!" Azzi said, running over and throwing her arms around Paige.
"Az, you were incredible. Like, I don't even have words. That was the coolest fuckin’ thing I've ever seen I told you that you’d kill it,” Paige said, hugging her tightly.
"Come on," Azzi said after she gave Paige a quick kiss. "I need to change and then we can head to the dinner. But first..." She bit her lip. "Beyoncé wants to meet you."
Paige's eyes widened. "What?"
"Yeah," Azzi said, laughing at Paige's expression. "I told her you were here and she said she wanted to say hi. Come on."
Paige let Azzi lead her through the maze of tunnels backstage, her heart pounding. They reached a private area where Beyoncé was talking with her team, and when she saw Azzi, she smiled.
"Azzi!" Beyoncé said warmly. "You were phenomenal out there."
"Thank you so much," Azzi said, and Paige could hear the awe in her voice. "This is my... um, this is Paige."
Paige noticed the hesitation, the way Azzi didn't quite know how to label her, and it made her more determined to ask her later.
"Nice to meet you, Paige," Beyoncé said, shaking her hand. "You play for the Wings, right?"
"Yes ma'am," Paige managed, trying not to freak out that she was talking to Beyoncé. "It's an honor to meet you."
"The honor is mine," Beyoncé said graciously. Then she turned back to Azzi. "Can I talk to you for a minute? Privately?"
Azzi glanced at Paige, who nodded. "I'll wait here," Paige said.
Azzi followed Beyoncé a few feet away, and Paige tried not to eavesdrop, but she couldn't help catching bits and pieces of the conversation.
"...incredibly talented..." Beyoncé was saying. "...starting a tour in March... would love to have you..."
Paige's heart stopped. A tour? Beyoncé was asking Azzi to go on tour? Holy shit.
She watched Azzi's face, saw the shock and joy and disbelief there. Saw the way Azzi's hands were shaking as she nodded, as she said something Paige couldn't hear.
When they came back over, Azzi looked dazed.
"Everything good?" Paige asked, even though she already knew the answer.
"Yeah," Azzi said faintly. "Everything's... yeah."
They said their goodbyes and made their way back to the locker room area so Azzi could change. Paige waited outside, her mind racing.
A tour. Starting in March. That was only four months away.
What did that mean for them? Would Azzi leave Dallas? Would they try long distance? Jesus Christ this really threw a wrench in the plan.
Paige felt panic rising in her chest.
When Azzi emerged, changed into jeans and a sweater, she still looked shell-shocked.
"You okay?" Paige asked softly.
"I think so," Azzi said. "She asked me to join her tour. Starting in March. Six months, all over the world. Barcelona and London and Dubai and Buenos Aires and like…literally everywhere."
"That's amazing, Az," Paige said, and she meant it, even as her heart was breaking a little. "That's your dream."
"It is," Azzi said, and there were tears in her eyes now. "But it's also... it's complicated."
"Why?"
Azzi looked at her, really looked at her. "Because of you," she said softly. "Because I don't want to leave you. I don't know what this means for us."
Paige's chest tightened. "We don't have to figure it all out right now," she said, even though she desperately wanted to. "Let's just... let's go to dinner. Celebrate your incredible performance. We can talk about the rest later."
"Are you sure?" Azzi asked, searching Paige's face.
"I'm sure," Paige lied.
They went to the DCC Thanksgiving dinner, and Paige tried to be present, tried to enjoy meeting the rest of Azzi's teammates and eating good food and celebrating. But her mind kept drifting back to the conversation with Beyoncé (still a crazy fucking sentence) and the uncertainty of what came next.
Azzi's teammates and coaches were the pinnacle of southern charm. They were all warm and welcoming and clearly very adoring of Azzi. They asked Paige about basketball and the Wings' season, and explained how they had a secret bet going on after the content day where they met. Paige answered everything as best she could, but she felt like she was on autopilot.
At one point, Azzi pulled her aside.
"Hey," she said softly. "You've been quiet. Are you okay?"
"Yeah," Paige said. "Just tired. It's been a long day."
Azzi didn't look convinced, but she didn't push. "Okay. We can leave soon if you want."
"No, it's fine," Paige said. "This is your night. I want you to enjoy it."
But the truth was, Paige's mind was spinning. She'd been so ready to ask Azzi to be her girlfriend. But now, with the tour looming, she didn't know if it was the right time.
What if she asked and Azzi said yes, but then left for six months? What if the distance was too much?
The questions swirled in her head all night, and by the time they left the dinner, Paige had made a decision.
She wasn't going to ask. Not tonight. Not until she knew what Azzi wanted.
They drove back to Paige's apartment in relative silence, the easy comfort between them replaced by a tension that Paige hated but didn't know how to fix.
"Do you want to come up?" Paige asked when they pulled into her parking lot.
"Do you want me to?" Azzi asked, and there was something vulnerable in her voice.
"Always," Paige said honestly.
They went upstairs, and once they were inside, Azzi turned to face her.
"Okay, what's going on?" Azzi asked. "You've been weird since we left the stadium. Is this about the tour?"
Paige sighed. "Maybe. I don't know."
"Talk to me, P," Azzi said, taking her hands. "Please."
"I just..." Paige struggled to find the words. "I'm happy for you. I really am. This is an incredible opportunity and you absolutely deserve it. But I'm also scared."
"Scared of what?"
"Scared of losing you," Paige admitted. "Scared that you'll go on this tour and realize you don't need me, or that the distance will be too much, or that we'll try to make it work and it'll just fall apart."
Azzi's eyes filled with tears. "Paige..."
"I know it's selfish," Paige continued. "I know I should just be supportive and happy for you. And I am, I swear I am. But I'm also terrified because I..." She stopped, the words catching in her throat.
"Because you what?" Azzi prompted softly.
"Because I'm falling for you," Paige said, the words tumbling out. "Like, really falling for you. And the thought of you leaving, of not seeing you every day, of not being able to hold you and kiss you and just be with you... it's killing me."
Azzi was crying now, tears streaming down her face. "I'm falling for you too," she whispered. "So much that it scares me. And I don't know what to do about the tour because it's everything I've ever wanted, but so are you."
"We don't have to decide anything tonight," Azzi said finally. "The tour doesn't start until March. That's four months away. Can we just... can we just be together for now? Figure out the rest later?"
Paige nodded, pulling Azzi into a tight hug. "Yeah," she said against Azzi's hair. "Yeah, we can do that."
"I'm so proud of you, Az. You were incredible today."
"Thank you," Azzi murmured sleepily. "I'm glad you were there. Thankful for you."
"Me too," Paige said.
And as Azzi drifted off to sleep, Paige lay awake, staring at the ceiling, wondering if she'd made the biggest mistake of her life by not asking and not making this official while she still had the chance.
But the uncertainty of it all was just too overwhelming. So she held Azzi close and tried not to think about March, about tours, about the very real possibility that the best thing that had ever happened to her might be about to slip through her fingers.
Tomorrow, she told herself. They'd figure it out tomorrow. But deep down, Paige knew that some questions didn't have easy answers, and some decisions couldn't be put off forever.
The clock was ticking, and Paige had no idea how to stop it.
__________________
The next morning, Paige woke up to an empty bed. For a moment, she fully panicked. Had Azzi left? Had she already made her decision? But then she heard the sound of running water from the bathroom and let out a breath she didn't know she'd been holding.
She reached for her phone. 6:47 AM.
Nika (6:48 AM): you alive twin?
KK (6:48 AM): Nik bro you gotta remember the time difference its early asf here
Nika (6:49 AM): sorryyyyy croatia mode
KK (6:49 AM): you talk to the Queen?
Paige stared at the messages, her thumb hovering over the keyboard. She didn't know what to say, how to explain the knot of anxiety that had taken up permanent residence in her stomach.
Paige (6:50 AM): yeah it was crazy
Nika (6:50 AM): you ask Azzi to be your girl???
Paige (6:51 AM): can i call you later? it's complicated
Nika (6:51 AM): oh shit
The bathroom door opened, and Azzi emerged in one of Paige's old Hopkins t-shirts, her curls damp. She looked soft and beautiful and so completely herself that Paige's chest ached.
"Hey," Azzi said, climbing back into bed and curling into Paige's side. "You're awake."
"Couldn't sleep," Paige admitted, wrapping her arms around Azzi and breathing in the scent of her shampoo.
"Me neither," Azzi said quietly. "I've been thinking."
Paige's heart stuttered. "Yeah?"
"About everything." Azzi pulled back slightly so she could look at Paige. She looked much more serious than usual. "I don't know what to do, P. This is everything I've worked for. Dancing alongside Beyoncé? That's a career-making deal. And DCC’s usually only stay like 2-3 years max and this is year 2 for me already. Charly’s manager has already texted the two of us three times this morning."
"What are you leaning toward?" Paige asked, trying to keep her voice neutral even though her heart was hammering against her ribs.
"I don't know," Azzi said, and there was frustration in her voice. "A couple months ago, this would've been an easy yes. But now..." She trailed off, her fingers tracing absent patterns on Paige's collarbone. "Now there's you."
"Az," Paige started, but Azzi shook her head.
"Let me finish. Please." She took a breath. "I really like you, Paige. Like, really like you. You make me feel things I didn't think I was capable of feeling. And the thought of leaving, of being gone for months, of potentially losing this, it makes me feel physically sick."
"But?" Paige prompted, because she could hear it coming.
"But I also can't ask you to wait for me," Azzi said, her voice breaking slightly. "That's not fair. We've only been doing this for a few months. We're not even... I mean, we haven't even defined what this is. And I can't ask you to put your life on hold for something that might not even,"
"Don't," Paige interrupted, her voice sharper than she intended. "Don't finish that sentence."
Azzi looked at her, eyes wide and vulnerable. "Paige–"
"I know we haven't defined this," Paige said, sitting up and pulling Azzi with her so they were facing each other. "I know it's new. But don't act like this is nothing. Don't act like what we have isn't real."
"I'm not," Azzi said quickly. "P, I'm not. That's the problem. It is real. It's so real it's terrifying. And I don't know how to choose between this and my career. I don't know how to make that decision."
"You shouldn't have to choose," Paige said, even though the words felt like glass in her throat. "If this is your dream, Az, you should take it. I would never ask you to give that up for me."
"But what happens to us?" Azzi asked, and there were tears in her eyes now.
Paige didn't have an answer. She wanted to say they'd figure it out, that they'd make it work, that distance didn't matter when you felt like this about someone. But the truth was, she didn't know. She'd never done this before
"I don't know," she admitted. "But we’ll figure it out.”
Later that afternoon, after Azzi had left for a meeting with Charli’s manager (soon to be hers, too), Paige finally called Nika.
"Tell me everything twin," Nika said immediately.
"Okay, first of all," Nika said when Paige had finished, "that's insane. Beyoncé? Like, for real?"
"That is so not the point, bro."
"I know, I know. But still, P, that is insane." Nika paused. "Okay, real talk. Are you crashing out like this because you love her?"
The question caught Paige off guard. "I... we've only been doing this since like August."
"P, that’s not what I asked."
Paige closed her eyes, leaning back against her couch. Did she love Azzi? She thought about the way her heart raced every time Azzi smiled at her. She’d felt like that since they first met. It was hard to explain, but when they were together it was like all the scattered pieces of her came together when she was around Azzi. Obviously she cared if she had thought far enough ahead to make it official. Paige Bueckers historically did not do “official”. Oh fuck.
"Yeah," she said quietly. "I think I do. Or I'm falling, at least. Hard."
"Then you need to tell her that," Nika said firmly. "Before she makes any decisions about this tour, she needs to actually know how you feel."
"But what if that makes it harder for her?" Paige argued. "What if knowing how I feel makes her turn down the opportunity, and then she resents me for it later?"
"Or what if not knowing makes her think you don't care enough?" Nika countered. "What if she takes the tour thinking you're not that invested, when really you're over here falling in love with her? Paige, you can't make decisions for her. You can't protect her from hard choices by hiding how you feel. That's not fair to either of you."
Paige knew Nika was right, but God this was scary.
"What if I tell her and she leaves anyway?" she asked, her voice at a whisper Nika had never heard before.
"Then at least she'll leave knowing the truth," Nika said gently. "And at least you'll know you were honest. But P, I think she's just as scared as you are. She’s probably crashing out with her teammates about it too."
After they hung up, Paige sat in the silence of her apartment, replaying Nika's words over and over. She pulled out her phone to text Azzi.
Paige (3:47 PM): how's the meeting going?
Azzi (3:52 PM): intense
Azzi (3:52 PM): manager is VERY excited about the tour
Azzi (3:53 PM): charly is already in apparently so she's here and i’m just listening to them talk about logistics and rehearsal schedules
Paige (3:54 PM): that's good though right?
Azzi (3:55 PM): yeah
Azzi (3:55 PM): i guess
Azzi (3:56 PM): can i come over tonight? i don't want to be alone
Paige (3:56 PM): of course baby. i'll order pizza
Azzi (3:57 PM): you're the best
Azzi (3:57 PM): see you soon
When Azzi arrived that night, she looked exhausted. There were shadows under her eyes, and her shoulders were noticeably tense.
"Hey," Paige said softly, pulling her into a hug as soon as she walked through the door. "Rough day?"
"You have no idea," Azzi mumbled into Paige's shoulder. "They want an answer by the end of the week. She says if I'm going to do this, we need to start preparing now. Rehearsals, wardrobe, choreography, it's a whole thing."
They moved to the couch, Azzi curling into Paige's side like she belonged there. The pizza box sat forgotten on the kitchen island.
"What do you want to do?" Paige asked carefully.
"I want to do both," Azzi said, her voice breaking. "I want the tour and I want you and I want to not have to choose. But that's not how life works, is it?"
"Az."
"My manager thinks I'm crazy for even hesitating," Azzi continued, the words spilling out now. "She keeps saying this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And she's right, objectively. This is everything I've ever worked for. I mean it would actually be so full circle since we literally did “Crazy in Love” with the Tiger Girls. But then I think about not seeing you for months and missing all these moments we could have together, and I just..." She trailed off, wiping at her eyes.
Paige's heart was pounding. This was it. This was the moment Nika had been talking about. She needed to be honest, no matter how fucking terrifying telling the truth was.
"Can I tell you something?" Paige asked, her voice shaking slightly.
Azzi looked up at her, eyes red-rimmed but attentive. "Of course."
"I was going to ask you to be my girlfriend," Paige said. "Last night, after your performance. I had this whole corny ass speech planned about wanting to be yours and wanting you to be mine, for real."
Azzi's breath caught. "Paige–"
"Wait," Paige stopped Azzi from saying anything else before she could forget everything she needed to say. "I didn't ask because I got scared. I thought maybe it would be easier if we kept things casual or if we didn't put a label on it. But the truth is, Az, I don't want casual. I don't want to keep pretending like this is just some fun thing we're doing. Because it's not."
"What are you saying?" Azzi whispered.
"I'm saying that I meant it when I said I'm falling. Like I’m deadass falling in love with everything about you, Az," Paige said, the words tumbling out in true Paige fashion. "I know the timing is fucking terrible and we’re living up to the lesbian u-haul shit but it's true. And I think you should know that before you make any decisions about the tour. I'm not asking you to choose me over your career. But I need you to know that this is real for me. You're real for me. And if you go on that tour, I'll wait. However long it takes, I'll wait. Because you're worth it and I have faith in the fact that we can make it work."
Azzi was crying now, tears streaming down her face. "You mean that?"
"Every word," Paige said, reaching up to wipe Azzi's tears away with her thumbs. "I know we haven't been doing this long, but I've never felt like this about anyone. And I don't want to lose you, but I also don't want to be the reason you give up on your dreams. So whatever you decide, I'm here. I'm all in. I’ll be your dance WAG or whatever."
Azzi giggled. "God, Paige, I'm so fucked,” she whispered.
“Why?” Paige asked.
“I’m in love with you.”
Paige leaned in then, inches from Azzi’s mouth. “Say it again.”
Over the next few days, the confession removed some invisible barrier that had been between them. Azzi still hadn't given her manager an answer, and Paige was trying not to push, trying to give her space to make the decision on her own terms. But they were also closer than ever. T
On Wednesday night, Azzi showed up at Paige's apartment with a bag of TruFru in hand.
"You made a decision," Paige said. It wasn't a question.
Azzi nodded “I talked to my manager today. And to Beyoncé's team."
Paige's heart was in her throat. "And?"
"I asked if there was any flexibility in the schedule," Azzi said. "What kinds of breaks were built in, times when I could fly back here for a few days or meet you wherever you guys are. There’s a week-long break in April and another one at the end of July around All-Star.”
"Azzi–"
"I'm going to do it," Azzi said, and there was determination in her voice now, mixed with fear and excitement. "I'm going to be a backup dancer on Beyoncé's tour. But I'm also going to be your girlfriend, if you still want me.”
Paige crossed the distance between them in two strides, pulling Azzi into her arms. "Of course I still want that, baby.”
"It's gonna be hard," Azzi warned, her voice muffled against Paige's shoulder. "Long distance, insane schedules, time zones. It's probably gonna fucking suck."
"You living your dream isn’t gonna suck, though," Paige said.
Azzi pulled back, looking up at Paige’s ocean-blue eyes she’d fallen so in love with. "So ask me."
"What?"
"Ask me what you were going to ask me that night before everything got complicated.”
Paige's heart was racing, but she smiled, cupping Azzi's face in her hands. "Azzi Fudd, will you be my girlfriend?"
"Yes," Azzi said immediately, smiling as the words left her mouth.
"We're really doing this," Paige said, almost in disbelief.
"Yes ma’am," Azzi confirmed.
“Alexa, play XO by Beyoncé,” Paige giggled.
“Oh my god, you’re insane.”
