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ISADORA LAY IN HER BED, A BOOK IN HAND, TRYING TO UNWIND AFTER THE CHAOS OF TONIGHT'S PERFORMANCE.

The bright stage lights and the exhilaration of the crowd had faded, leaving her in a comfortable cocoon of familiarity. After a refreshing shower, she had settled into one of her favourite outfits: a loose-fitting t-shirt that hung just right and a pair of soft, stretchy tights. Her blonde hair was pulled up in a messy bun, and her glasses rested on her nose as she immersed herself in the pages of Gone with the Wind, one of her all-time favourites.

As she turned each page, she became completely absorbed in the story, the world around her fading away. Time slipped by unnoticed until a sharp knock echoed from her window, jolting her back to reality. With a reluctant sigh, she set the book down on her nightstand, casting a quick glance at the clock. It was late, but a thrill of curiosity sparked as she approached the window.

When she opened it, she was met with the sight of Billy, his curly hair tousled and his expression a mix of mischief and charm. "Billy! What are you doing climbing up the side of my house?" Isadora exclaimed, leaning against the windowsill, her heart racing. She held out her hand, ready to help him through the opening.

Billy clambered inside with ease, landing on the floor of her room with a soft thud. "I wanted to see you," he replied casually, as if climbing up her house was the most normal thing in the world. "But I didn't think your parents would let me visit this late, so I figured the window was my best bet."

Isadora felt a flutter in her stomach at his words. She had been hoping he would come, yet she had never imagined he would go to such lengths. "My parents aren't home, so they wouldn't have noticed me answering the front door anyway," she said, trying to sound nonchalant but failing to suppress her excitement.

"Are your parents ever home?" Billy asked, concern edging his voice. "Wait, does that mean they didn't get to see you perform tonight?" His question made her pause, and she felt her heart sink a little.

"They've seen me perform plenty of times; it's not like they were missing out. They just work long hours," she lied, forcing a smile as she turned away to mask the tension that had begun to coil in her stomach.

Billy tilted his head, studying her. "I didn't know you wore glasses," he said, his tone shifting to a lighter note, as he stepped closer to her.

"Yeah, sometimes I do. I prefer not to, though," Isadora replied, brushing a few stray strands of hair away from her face and adjusting her glasses nervously. She could feel her cheeks warming under his gaze.

"You look adorable with them on," Billy said, sincerity lacing his words.

"Adorable? I wouldn't go that far," she laughed, but it was a nervous sound. "If I could, I'd wear contacts all the time. Glasses feel a bit... clunky."

"Well, I think you look adorable, period," he insisted, moving closer to her and gesturing toward the book beside her. "What were you reading?"

"You mean before you interrupted?" Isadora teased, raising an eyebrow playfully.

"Uh... yeah," he grinned, and she felt her heart flutter at the sight.

"Gone with the Wind," she said, glancing at the book before looking back at Billy, scrunching her nose playfully. "But you don't actually care what I'm reading, do you?"

"... not really," Billy admitted with a sheepish smile. Isadora couldn't help but laugh, shaking her head at him. Leaning a little closer, she rested her hands on his knees, their closeness sending shivers down her spine.

"I won't hold it against you," she chuckled, and he joined in, the sound light and carefree, but then, he leaned in and kissed her, and the world around them faded once again. Isadora smiled into the kiss before pulling away, her heart racing.

"I'm really glad you came here tonight," she confessed, her eyes shining with warmth.

"Well, I came because we need to talk," he said, the playful tone in his voice shifting to something more serious. Isadora felt her stomach drop, anxiety creeping in.

"W-We do?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.

"We do, Is," he said, taking her hands in his and giving them a gentle squeeze. "We didn't really get a chance to talk about everything tonight."

"You mean about how I messed everything up? How I walked away without letting you explain? Or how I don't deserve this second chance you're offering me?" Isadora's voice trembled as she spoke, the words spilling out like a confession.

"Of course you deserve a second chance," he replied firmly, but the weight of her guilt hung heavy in the air. Isadora dropped her gaze, the shame rushing back as she processed the reality of her situation.

"Do I? I was the one who ended things because I believed the words of someone who wanted to break us apart from the start," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It hurt me when you chose to believe her over me, especially after I defended you, Is," Billy replied, his tone earnest, but it only made her feel worse.

"I'm sorry for hurting you and for believing Amanda. I—" Isadora trailed off, the memories flooding her mind and sending a wave of panic through her. She instinctively pulled away from him, feeling her heart race as anxiety began to take hold.

"Is?" Billy asked, concern etching deeper lines on his face as he noticed her distress. He reached out and gently took her hand, squeezing it affectionately. "You're okay, Is. I'm right here, and I'm not going anywhere, I promise."

"I—" Isadora tried to speak again, but the memories of her past relationship clawed at her, and she felt the grip of panic tightening around her chest. She closed her eyes, feeling overwhelmed, and when she finally opened them, she struggled to focus on Billy's face. Taking a deep breath, she looked away from him, her heart racing as she tried to calm herself.

"Billy, I want you to know I'm giving you an out. I hurt you, so I would understand if you decided to walk away from me," she said, her voice trembling with sincerity.

"Isadora, I chose you. After the school dance when you said it was over, I chose you. I don't want an out because I want you. I meant it when I said I'm not going anywhere," Billy assured her, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her heart flutter.

"You—You chose me?" Isadora asked, hope igniting within her. In that moment, as he spoke those words, all of her doubts and fears faded away, replaced by a warmth that enveloped her. The feeling was entirely unfamiliar but utterly wonderful, and she found herself leaning into it.

"Of course I chose you, Princess," he replied, a smile spreading across his face as he moved closer again, intertwining their fingers. Isadora felt a swell of affection, and she couldn't help but smile back.

"Isadora, I need you to do something for me," he said, his tone turning serious once more.

"You need me to do something for you?" she echoed, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.

"Stop listening to people like Amanda, who just want to see us break up because they're jealous I chose you. If you're going to listen to anyone, listen to me. I care about you so much, Isadora Jones. You're the best person I know, and I choose you, okay? I promise you, you're the only girl I want to be with."

Isadora's heart swelled at his words, a rush of emotion flooding her senses. "If someone had told me a few months ago that Billy Hargrove would be choosing the entitled princess, I would have told them to pinch me," she joked, laughter bubbling up as a way to relieve the tension.

"Isadora, I'm being serious!" he replied, feigning exasperation but unable to hide the smile on his face.

"Right, right, sorry," she nodded, biting her lip to suppress a giggle before looking at him with sincerity. "I promise I won't listen to Amanda or anyone else again because I choose you too. And I'm really sorry for hurting you."

"One more thing: please stop saying sorry, Is," he said, his eyes softening as he looked at her.

"Oh, I'm sorry—wait, what?" Isadora exclaimed, realising the irony.

"That was kind of adorable," Billy admitted with a chuckle, and Isadora giggled, feeling lighter with each laugh. She leaned in to kiss him again, savouring the moment, but soon pulled back, resting her chin on her hands as curiosity sparked.

"So, how exactly did you know the words to You're The One That I Want? How did you even know Grease is my favourite movie?" she asked, a smile dancing on her lips.

"Kendra told me it was your favourite movie, so I figured if I wanted to get the lyrics right, I'd better watch the movie," Billy shrugged, a proud smile breaking through.

"You—You watched Grease?" Isadora asked, incredulous.

Billy nodded slowly, and a wide smile spread across her face. "That was pretty sweet. Hearing you sing the song that made me fall in love with that movie was everything."

"I am never doing that again—" Billy protested, making Isadora giggle uncontrollably.

"Don't get me wrong; I used to love performing, but I'd rather be backstage," she said, her tone shifting to a more serious note.

"Why? You have an incredible voice, Is," Billy countered, his expression earnest.

"I just—I'd rather be the stage manager," she replied with a shrug, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.

"Well, I think you have an incredible voice, Is, and I would happily listen to you sing any day," Billy said, sincerity radiating from his words.

Isadora felt her heart swell with affection at his encouragement, the bond between them growing stronger. She looked into his eyes, seeing the warmth and sincerity that made her feel safe.

"And I want you to know that I'm here for you too, Billy. I want to support you, no matter what," she declared, the sincerity in her voice echoing in the stillness of her room.

Billy smiled, his eyes lighting up. "I appreciate that more than you know, Is. It means the world to me."

Isadora's cheeks flushed as she looked down at her hands, childhood memories creeping up. Before they could overwhelm her, Billy leaned in, capturing her lips in a gentle yet intense kiss. The world around them vanished, leaving only the electrifying connection between them. As he pressed closer, guiding her back onto the bed, Isadora wrapped her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss.

The cool sheets beneath her contrasted the growing heat between them. Billy's hand slid to the hem of her shirt, fingers grazing her skin, sending shivers up her spine. When he hesitated, breaking the kiss, Isadora looked into his eyes, her heart pounding.

"Why'd you stop?" she asked, voice soft, filled with curiosity.

"I just want to make sure you're okay with this," Billy replied, his voice tentative.

A warm smile touched her lips. "Yeah, I am. Thank you for checking."

With a nod, Billy pulled her shirt off, his gaze lingering as Isadora felt both vulnerable and exhilarated. She helped him out of his shirt, her fingers brushing against his warm skin. Their lips met again, more urgent this time, passion surging through them.

Billy kissed along her jawline, down her neck, making her gasp softly when he found the sensitive spot beneath her ear. "You're beautiful," he murmured, his breath warm against her skin. Isadora's heart fluttered, her confidence growing as she wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him closer.

"Stop teasing me already," she breathed, her voice thick with longing.

Billy's lips curved into a smirk. "Tell me what you want, Princess," he whispered, his tone low and full of promise.

"I want you," she confessed, the words spilling out like a prayer. Billy responded with a passionate kiss, and they lost themselves in each other, bodies intertwining in a heated embrace. His hands explored her curves, sending waves of pleasure through her as she melted under his touch.

As his kisses trailed lower, Isadora let out a soft moan, her body arching toward him. He paused, eyes meeting hers. "Is this okay?"

"Yes," she whispered, breathless. "More than okay."

With her encouragement, Billy continued, each kiss heightening the intensity of their connection, until the world outside ceased to exist.

Isadora melted under Billy's touch, each kiss igniting sparks that danced along her skin. Their passion built, and soon they were lost in each other, bodies moving in perfect harmony. The heat between them grew, overwhelming all else until there was nothing left but the two of them, tangled in a haze of desire and love.

Afterwards, they lay together, their breaths heavy, the warmth of their connection still lingering in the air. Isadora smiled up at Billy, her body still buzzing with the intensity of their shared moment. He brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch gentle and filled with affection.

"Shall we clean up?" Billy asked, his voice soft, still laced with the afterglow.

Isadora nodded, and they slipped from the bed, heading to the shower. The water cascaded around them, warm and soothing as they stepped inside. The steam enveloped them, and Billy wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close under the stream. Isadora leaned into him, her body relaxing as the water washed away the remnants of the night.

They stood together in the quiet intimacy of the moment, the sound of the shower creating a tranquil backdrop. Billy's fingers trailed lightly down her back as he kissed the top of her head, their earlier urgency replaced by a sense of peace and contentment. Isadora looked up at him, her eyes soft and filled with gratitude for the tenderness they shared. They lingered in the warmth of the shower, exchanging gentle touches and soft kisses, letting the water cool them down after the heat they had shared.

Isadora emerged first, her skin still glistening from the warm water. She reached for a clean shirt and snug leggings that hugged her figure just right, a playful smile lingering on her lips. Billy followed, stepping out of the bathroom with a lazy grin. He donned his boxers and threw on a loose shirt, the fabric falling over him in a way that felt effortlessly cool and comfortable.

As he finished dressing, Isadora turned to him, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "Do you want to stay the night?" she asked, the playful challenge in her tone inviting him closer.

"Of course. Do you want me to?" he replied, raising an eyebrow, a teasing lilt to his voice.

"I wouldn't have asked if I didn't want you to," Isadora giggled, the sound light and musical. Billy rolled his eyes in mock annoyance, but his lips curled into a smile as he watched her.

"Your parents won't mind you letting a boy spend the night in your bed?" he inquired, curiosity threading through his voice, a genuine concern for her comfort evident in his gaze.

"They won't be home tonight," Isadora shrugged, her casual demeanour not quite hiding the slight tension that flickered in her eyes. She walked out of the bathroom, her confidence a little less certain now, and Billy noticed the way her shoulders tensed at the mention of her parents. He decided to save his questions for later; they could wait until a moment felt right.

Stepping into her bedroom, the soft glow of the nightlight bathed the space in warmth. The walls were adorned with photos and posters that reflected her personality—colourful, vibrant, and alive. Isadora was already sitting on the bed, her smile radiant as she patted the space beside her, inviting him to join her.

Billy sank onto the mattress, and she instinctively cuddled up against him, her head resting on his shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer. The fabric of her shirt was soft against his skin, and he breathed in her scent—a mix of shampoo and something uniquely her that made his heart race.

He gently kissed her forehead, a sweet gesture that conveyed all the emotions swirling within him—affection, admiration, and a hint of protectiveness. "You know, I could get used to this," he murmured, his voice low and sincere.

Isadora looked up at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of joy and something deeper. "Me too," she replied softly, her heart swelling at the intimacy of the moment. They shared a comfortable silence, the air thick with unspoken words and emotions that neither wanted to break.

As the minutes passed, Billy felt a sense of peace wash over him, a warmth settling in his chest that he had never felt before. It was as if the universe had conspired to bring them to this moment, and he couldn't help but revel in it.

He brushed a strand of hair behind her ear, and she smiled, the kind of smile that lit up her entire face. "I'm really glad you decided to climb through my window tonight," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, but it resonated in the quiet room.

"Me too," he replied, his heart racing as he leaned in closer, their foreheads nearly touching. "It feels... right."

As they settled into the comfort of each other's warmth, Isadora felt safe, protected, and cherished. With Billy beside her, she knew she could let her guard down completely. And as they drifted off to sleep, tangled in each other's arms, she smiled happily, feeling grateful for the unexpected turn of the night. It was a night she would always remember, a night that felt like the beginning of something beautiful.

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Hello,

Here's another new chapter I've added in and this one is a bit of a roller coaster but an important chapter nonetheless.

Enjoy! Xo

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