Austin noticed Briar standing by the railings, enjoying the fresh air and gazing out at the scenery. With a playful smirk, he decided to make his move. Sliding gracefully between the railings, he leaned back, resting the back of his elbows on the railings while facing the opposite direction.

"Enjoying the view?" Austin asked casually, his voice carrying a hint of mischief.

Briar turned to see Austin in his relaxed pose and couldn't help but chuckle. "I was, until someone decided to crash the peaceful moment."

Austin feigned offense, placing a hand dramatically over his heart. "Crash? I prefer to think of it as enhancing the ambiance."

Briar rolled her eyes playfully. "Enhancing, huh? With your charm, I'm surprised the birds aren't singing love songs."

Austin grinned, turning to face her fully. "Well, I could always try to serenade you myself, but I can't promise it won't scare off the birds."

Briar laughed, shaking her head. "I think I'll pass on that one, thanks."

Undeterred, Austin leaned closer, his tone turning more serious. "You know, Briar, I like having these moments with you. Just being here, talking, teasing... It feels right."

Briar's heart skipped a beat at his sincerity, and she smiled softly. "Yeah, it does."

They stood together in comfortable silence for a moment, the gentle breeze playing with their hair. The library terrace, with its tranquil atmosphere and the faint sounds of distant chatter, provided the perfect backdrop for their budding connection. Austin and Briar both knew that these stolen moments together were becoming more precious with each passing day.

As Austin and Briar leaned against the railings, soaking in the fresh air and the tranquil surroundings, they were oblivious to the playful antics of their friends nearby. Evie, Kaya, Grace, Jonathan, Jax, and Sam had discovered the perfect vantage point to observe their interactions from a distance.

Evie nudged Kaya with a mischievous grin, pointing subtly towards Austin and Briar. "Look at them. Aren't they just adorable?"

Kaya stifled a giggle, watching as Austin said something that made Briar laugh. "They're totally into each other," she whispered back, her eyes fixed on the pair.

Grace leaned forward slightly, her expression softening. "It's about time they figured it out. They've been dancing around each other for weeks."

Jonathan chuckled, crossing his arms as he observed their banter. "They're not fooling anyone. The way they look at each other says it all."

Jax nodded in agreement. "True. Austin's been smooth with his moves lately. Briar's definitely falling for it. But seriously i didn't expect for her to fall"

Sam grinned, shaking his head. "I give it a week before they're officially dating. Any bets?"

They continued to watch as Austin leaned closer to Briar, their conversation turning more animated. Laughter echoed softly as Briar playfully nudged Austin's arm, a playful grin on her face.

"They make a good pair," Evie commented, her tone fond. "I'm glad they finally stopped teasing each other and just went for it."

As Austin and Briar lingered by the railings, enjoying each other's company, their friends exchanged knowing looks. It was clear to everyone watching that something special was blossoming between them, and they couldn't help but feel happy for their friends finding happiness together.

Evie furrowed her brow, breaking the quiet contemplation.

"So, what's the call on Madison? Are we still going ahead with the distraction?" she whispered, glancing around to gauge everyone's thoughts.

Jonathan smirked, nudging Jax playfully. "Oh, come on, you know we have to do it. For the plot!"

Jax chuckled, his eyes sparkling mischievously. "Absolutely! Plus, it's kind of fun, isn't it?"

Sam shrugged nonchalantly. "Yeah, and it keeps things interesting. Can't let the drama die down now, can we?"

Kaya sighed with a smile, shaking her head. "You boys and your plot twists. Fine, let's see how this plays out."

Evie glanced at Briar and Austin, who seemed engrossed in conversation. "Just hope Madison doesn't catch on too quickly."

They nodded in silent agreement, their plan set in motion once more, ready to add another twist to the unfolding saga of Austin and Briar's budding relationship.

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annoucement !

- hey y'all, sorry for being inactive lately, i started to get busy with my schoolworks i hope you guys understand, i also apologize if this part was short but i promise the next one would be longer and enjoyable.

xoxo.