The princess games

Just the beginning

*Charlie*

As we finish our dinner, the excitement in the air shifts, and I can’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation. After all, it is finally time for the poolside party that everyone has been buzzing about. My stomach flutters at the thought of it…a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and the sound of splashing water. It feels like we’re stepping into a dream, a trip to another world.

“Are you ready for this?” Tessa asks, her eyes sparkling like the stars above. She’s already bouncing on her heels, practically vibrating with energy.

“Absolutely! Let’s go!” I grin, and we make our way outside, where the night has transformed the pool area into a dazzling paradise. Colorful lights dance across the water’s surface, and the sweet scent of tropical flowers fills the air. I can hear laughter and music blending together, creating a symphony that feels inviting and warm.

The moment we step outside, I feel the cool breeze brush against my skin. The atmosphere is electric, and I can’t help but smile at the sight before me. Groups of women and men mingle around the pool, drinks in hand, some already dancing to the rhythm of the upbeat music.

“Over there!” Nia points, and we follow her gaze to a makeshift bar where bartenders are working their magic, mixing vibrant cocktails and pouring drinks into colorful glasses.

“I’ll be right back!” Arabella exclaims, charging toward the bar with an eager bounce.

Tessa and Nia exchange knowing glances, and I can’t help but laugh at their synchronized expressions. They both know Arabella is going to come back with something extravagant and sugary.

“Let’s grab a spot by the pool,” I suggest, leading the way to a cozy area with lounge chairs and a perfect view of the festivities. As we settle in, I take a deep breath, the excitement swirling around me. This is what everyone has been waiting for… for me it is more a chance to unwind and let loose, away from the expectations of home, after all I am not here for the men.

I scan the crowd, and my heart skips a beat when I spot Malik across the pool. He’s leaning against the bar, laughing with a few other staff members. Even from a distance, I can see the way he effortlessly commands attention, his smile radiant and infectious. There’s something about him that makes my heart race… a sincerity that stands out amidst the chaos of this glamorous night.

“Charlie, are you okay?” Nia’s voice breaks through my thoughts, and I realize I’ve been staring. I quickly turn my focus back to my friends, but my mind lingers on Malik.

“I’m fine! Just… taking it all in,” I say, trying to sound casual.

Tessa nudges me playfully. “You’re totally crushing on him, aren’t you?”

I roll my eyes, but I can’t suppress the smile creeping onto my face. “He’s just… interesting, that’s all. And he works here, remember?”

“Just because he’s a server doesn’t mean he’s off-limits,” Nia adds with a wink, clearly enjoying this little tease. “You should go talk to him!”

“Not a chance!” I laugh, but the thought sends a flutter through my stomach. The idea of just walking up to him feels both thrilling and terrifying.

“Why not? You’re not going to make a move sitting here, are you?” Tessa challenges, and I can practically see the gears turning in her mind. “The men might be drawn to the most glamorous women, but I have a feeling Malik is different.”

“Yeah, and you’ll never know unless you try,” Nia encourages, her voice soft but firm. “Life’s too short to hold back, Charlie.”

As I weigh their words, I glance back at Malik. He’s chatting with some guests now, his laughter ringing out clear above the music. He looks so relaxed, so in his element. And yet, I can’t shake the feeling that there’s more to him than meets the eye.

“Okay, okay! I’ll think about it, but no promises,” I concede, a small part of me already warming to the idea of stepping out of my comfort zone.

Just then, Arabella returns, a holder with dazzling drinks in hand that matches the vibrant colors of the party. “Look what I got!” she exclaims, waving her cocktail like a trophy. “It’s a tropical paradise in a glass!”

“Cheers to that!” I laugh, raising my own drink… I had not planned to drink alcohol, but I feel celebratory at this moment.

We clink our glasses together, the sound ringing out like a promise of fun. As we sip and chat, I can’t help but steal glances at Malik. He catches my eye for a brief moment, and I feel a jolt of electricity course through me. He smiles, a warm, inviting smile that makes my heart skip again.

I turn my focus back to my friends, who are now discussing potential dance moves, but my thoughts keep drifting back to Malik. What would it be like to sit down and really talk to him? To learn to know the real him?

“Come on, Charlie! Let’s hit the dance floor!” Tessa pulls me up, her enthusiasm infectious.

As we make our way to the edge of the pool, the music pulses through me, and I feel a rush of exhilaration. I can let go, even just for tonight. But in the back of my mind, Malik remains… a tantalizing mystery.

With a deep breath, I lose myself in the rhythm, the laughter of my friends surrounding me, and Malik’s image lingering just enough to keep my heart racing. The holiday is still young, and anything could happen.