A/N: Okay, here's the next chapter.

I was very nervous to write this chapter because I want all the interactions between Emily and Paige to be well written. It's difficult for me to write when the interactions start to get more and more intense. However, I will try my best in future chapters. But for this chapter, I am happy with it and I hope you guys enjoy it too.

And I also don't know how most of you are going to feeling about the direction I'm taking this story in, but I definitely think it's different. Good or bad, you decide, but I hope the story will still keep you guys entertain.

PPL is back on tonight. Let's cross our fingers and hope that there will be some cute Paily scenes in the premiere episode.

Alright…lego!

Enjoy


A week has passed since the break-up and the girls were still treating Emily like she was a fragile piece of glass. Emily didn't like it at all. She didn't want the pity nor be babied by her friends. As much as it hurt, Emily was trying her best to just let the pain go. But how can you? Break-ups are the worst things in this world. Having a broken heart and being disappointed, all at the same time, was unbearable. Emily barely made it out of the first couples of days without wanting to break down and cry in front of everyone.

Her favorite time of the day was to go down to the station because Paige was Emily's distraction from the pain. With her schedule and Paige's schedule being so different, that was the only time Emily got to see her. The soothing silence between them was what Emily enjoyed the most. There were moments where Paige didn't have to say a word and Emily was fine with that. Paige was the only one that did not treat Emily with caution. She still treated Emily the same as before the break-up. Nothing has changed much between them. She was still the same person of a few words.

Paige had a dry sense of humor and she was very blunt, two qualities that should never go together, but it worked for Paige McCullers. Emily has never met a person like that before. Paige kept Emily on her toes and the more Paige tries to push Emily away by being cool and collected, the more Emily wanted to be around her. It was a strange attraction. Even her own mother liked having Paige around. Every time her mother comes home from the station, it was Paige this or Paige that. Lately, Emily has been trying to figure out how she feels about Paige because it was getting too complicate for her. She was not fully over Maya, but she couldn't stop herself from thinking about Paige all the same time, especially after the night that Paige found her in the woods, crying. Is she crushing on Paige?

"Em. Are you listening?" Hanna waved her hand in front of Emily's face.

"Huh? Sorry." Emily replied.

Hanna went back to her story.

Emily and her friends always gathered together for lunch everyday in the courtyard, sitting at their usual table. Even with the addition of Caleb and Toby, their table still remind very open. The courtyard was buzzing with people as the weather in Rosewood became relatively warm again.

Emily looked at her sandwich before picking up one half. Out of the corner of her eyes, she spotted Paige with her friends. They were talking and laughing in their exclusive group. From afar, Emily was taking in what Paige was wearing today. The girl has a great sense of fashion, Emily thought. Paige was wearing a loose grey tank with a red plaid shirt, and white shorts with her black combat boots. Her hair went down and it framed her face well, Emily thought.

Emily looked back at her sandwich and took a bite. She glanced back at Paige again. This time, a blonde girl approached Paige and she touched Paige on her arm. Emily felt a pinch of annoyance. She made a face and continued to watch their interaction. Paige smiled back and talked closely to the blonde girl. The annoyance turned into a nagging nuisance as Emily continued to stare. Emily became curious about who this girl was and what was her relation to Paige. Maybe this was that Jaime girl Paige briefly told her about a couple of weeks ago. Or maybe this was Paige's new girl she was seeing.

"Em? Your sandwich is falling apart." Aria said, pointing to it.

"What have you been staring at?" Spencer asked annoyed, turning around to find Emily's object of interest. "Ugh." She said once her eyes found Paige standing and laughing with the blonde. "I guess I should have asked who have you been staring at?"

Hanna and Caleb snickered. "Busted."

Emily turned her attention back to her sandwich. She felt embarrassed, getting caught staring at Paige by her friends, once again.

"I know you've been trying to move on, but there are plenty of fishes in the sea. Don't pick that one." Spencer said. Emily understood Spencer's concern. When it came to her friends, Spencer was the most protective and she doesn't trust people that easily. People have to earn their trust from Spencer Hastings. That is how it has always been. No exceptions.

Hanna leaned over and whispered into Emily's ear. "She's hot. I would if she looked at me that way."

Emily looked back at Hanna, jaws dropped. Did Hanna really just say that?

Emily asked curiously, "In what way?"

All Hanna had to do was eye Emily up and down for her to understand what Hanna was suggesting. Emily blushed profusely, thinking to herself. Paige didn't look at her in that way. Does she? Hanna was reading into it too much, Emily rationalized. It was nothing, Emily thought, trying to convince herself. However, it was too late for convincing as Emily's mind began to wander.

"You would?" Emily asked again amusement, eyeing Hanna. Emily glanced at Caleb, but he was paying no attention to the side conversation. Hanna shrugged and nodded.

"Hey." Before Emily could turn around and see who it was. Hanna beamed with excitement and instantly, Emily could guess who was standing behind her. Blood rushed to her face. Heartbeat thumping against her ears. Chills ran down her back. She putted down her sandwich and slowly turned around.

"Hi." Paige said, smiling slightly.

"Hi." Emily said breathlessly. Speaking of the devil. What the hell was wrong with her? She gulped and found her voice again. "What you do want?" Cringing when her tone was rather rude than composed.

Paige's smile grew wider, knowing the effect she has on Emily. "There's a new club opening in Philly this Saturday. If you guys want to come, just tell the bouncer out front that you're with Paige McCullers. They should let you in with no problems."

"Of course, we'll be there!" Hanna exclaimed, getting too excited.

Spencer and Aria both scowled, "Hanna!" Looking at her in disapproval.

Paige laughed. "See you guys Saturday then." Paige smirked and tipped her head. "Emily."

Emily eyed her and nodded. Once Paige was out of sight, she turned back to face her friends.

"I don't think this is a good idea you guys." Aria said, sounding very small.

Hanna interjected. "Guys, this is the perfect opportunity for Emily."

"Me?" Emily was confused.

"Yes. You're going through a tough break-up. I can see that you still get upset over it." Hanna paused. "This calls for a girls' weekend!"

"No." Caleb shook his head. "We're coming with you guys if you guys want to go."

Toby agreed. "We'll keep an eye out for you girls."

"Okay, fine. I'm down. Aria?" Spencer said, giving in.

"Me too." Aria beamed at Hanna, as she squealed excitedly.

Emily thought about it for a minute. She hasn't been single for a very long time and now here was her chance. She missed being with the girls and having girl time. Plus, she needs to get away from Rosewood for a couple of days and clear her head. She needs to find closure and going away, for the weekend, was a great start. She didn't want to mope over Maya or have her friends consult her anymore. It was time for her to move on and focus on what she wants out of life.

"Let's do it." Emily said, getting anxious, but excited at the same time.


The girls all told their parents that they were staying at the Hastings for the weekend. Mrs. Hastings was the only one who truly knew where they were going. She didn't care where they were going as long as they stuck together and be safe. Plus Mrs. Hastings has known all the girls since they were little so she trusted them all very much.

Emily grabbed her bags and waited with Hanna in front of the Marin's house. Caleb was going to be here any minute, or that was what she was told an hour ago. Emily sat on the curb, playing with a strand of grass, trying to distract her from the anxiety she was feeling.

"Spill, Em."

"Huh?"

"You're making that face when you're thinking too hard. What's up?"

"Nothing." Emily insisted.

"Let me guess. It's complicated." Hanna laughed, shaking her head.

Emily smiled back and shook her head. "I'm just nervous. This is way out of my comfort zone."

"But it's exciting, right?" Hanna asked. "Don't worry. You're single and you're ready to mingle. I'll be your wingman…or…wing-woman? Or?...Whatever."

Emily laughed at the blonde girl. Hanna has always been the comical one in the group.

Caleb slowly came down the street and parked in front of the house. He rolled down the passenger's side window and shouted. "Ready, girls?"

Caleb got out of the car and ran around the vehicle, opening the car door for them. "Toby just picked up Spencer and Aria. They're on their way already."

Emily climbed into the backseat as Caleb grabbed all their bags and put them in the trunk. Hanna climbed into the passenger's seat and closed the door. She began to dig around, looking for something.

"What are you looking for, babe?" Caleb asked while concentrating on the road.

"Where's my Britney Spear CD?" Hanna asked, frustrated because she can't seem to find the item.

Emily looked out of the window and tried to will herself to relax. This was a good opportunity. It was different, but it was also very exciting. Hanna was right. She didn't need to worry about anything right now, but focus on having fun. All of her friends are going with her to Philly and they are all going to have a great time. That's all she should be worried about. Nothing else, especially not over Maya.


"I'm worried, Hanna!" Emily hissed angrily as they waited in line. She was wearing this violet strapless dress that Hanna picked out for her to wear when they were back at the hotel room. Emily paired it with black heels and a silver clutch bag. As Emily walked, the dress rode up a little higher and higher. Now she was standing in line, stretching out the dress, hoping that it would magically become longer soon.

"Em, you look great. Don't worry." Toby said, reassuring her. Caleb gave her a thumbs-up also. If both boys said that she looked good, then she has nothing to worry about. Yet, she wasn't comfortable with the length of the dress.

"See? You're a knockout Em. Don't worry." Hanna looked around, hoping the line would proceed quicker. "Beside, showing a little bit of skin is not going to kill you."

Once they got to the front of the line, Toby whispered something in the bouncer's ear. Everyone else waited around to see how the bouncer was going to respond. The bouncer lifted the velvet rope, motioning them to head inside. Toby grabbed Spencer's hand while Caleb grabbed Hanna's. Aria and Emily both linked their arms together and followed the other two couples in.

Emily and her friends have never seen anything like this before. The lights were turned down low and the A/C was blasting. Music was blaring to the point where they needed to shout into each other ears to be heard. People were swarming around, dancing up against each other on the dance floor. Bartenders were performing tricks and asking people if they needed more drinks. There were dancers up on poles all over the establishment. Security guards were dressed in suits, standing at every entrances and exits. Judging by what some of the other female club-goers were wearing, Emily felt relieved. What she was wearing was at least something compared to the others in the club.

The hostess walked up to Toby and motioned him to follow her. The lady led them closer to the stage area, where the DJ was spinning his set. Next to the stage was a lounge area. Emily saw Noel, Jenna, and Shana first. They were all dancing by the DJ's area, not paying any attention to anyone else. Then Emily spotted Paige immediately. Paige was sitting in the middle of the booth, talking closely with that blonde girl Emily saw her with at school. Patrick leaned over to Paige's other ear and pointed in Emily direction. Paige tore her eyes from the blonde girl and stood up right away, smirking.

Holy shit!

Paige was wearing a skin-tight red dress. It was plain and simple, but Emily really liked that dress on Paige. Paige's hair was half up and down. She had on a silver bangle and silver loop earrings. Emily would have never pegged Paige as a girly girl, but Paige could really pull the look off. Paige looked smoking hot and she was heading towards Emily. Hanna nudged Emily's shoulder, smiling.

Paige grabbed Emily's arm and pulled her closer. Emily felt Paige's warm breathe next to her ear. "Hey, you made it!"

Emily's head was beginning to spin and her heart was beating wildly. A scent of peach and flowers reached Emily's nose as she breathe in Paige's perfume. The scent made the hair on her arms stand up with chills.

Emily smiled and leaning into Paige's ear. "You clean up well!"

Paige shrugged. Paige pulled back and admired Emily's face. Their faces were merely a couple of inches away from each other when she looked down Emily's features and stopped at her lips. Don't do it, Paige thought. Paige herself was trying to figure out where the boundaries lay with Emily, now that she's single. Emily was fair game, she told her self.

Paige flickered her eyes back to Emily's face and smiled. She prayed, in her head, that Emily would give her a sign. Any type of sign. Should she cross those lines? Or should she forget about them? Emily didn't know what that look was, but she could have sworn that Paige wanted to kiss her at that moment. Emily was so caught up in the moment that now her imagination was playing tricks on her or so she thought.

Before Paige could lean in and break the silence, Emily felt a hand pulling her towards the dance floor. Emily refused to take her eyes off of Paige as she stumbled away. Paige smirked back, but this time, Emily returned it with her own smirk. Paige was caught off guard and taken back. Was that a sign, Paige was trying to decide.

Emily was feeling bolder, Paige could tell. Ever since the break-up with Maya, Paige has noticed a slight change in Emily, especially when the girl was around Paige. It was a whole different side of Emily Paige has not seen after and thought it never existed. The old Emily would have never smirked back. The old Emily would have dismiss it or shyly look away. This Emily just taunted her back. No one has ever smirked back at me, Paige thought. Is Emily teasing her?

Two can play that game.

Paige turned back around and sat with Leslie again. Leslie has been openly flirtatious with Paige the past couple of days. Paige had no intentions on inviting her tonight, but when Leslie introduced her self, that day during lunch, Noel thought it was a good idea to extend an invitation. Now she was here and she was lurking into clingy territory. Paige didn't like that at all, but Paige couldn't just abandon her. After all, she did come out with Paige and her friends. Paige sat there, but had no interest in what she was trying to tell Paige. She poured herself a drink and watched across the dance floor to catch the warm brown orbs of a familiar face.

Emily has never had this much fun dance with her friends. The environment was on another level. Emily has never felt energy like this. No one cared what she or her friends did on the dance floor. Everyone was happy and enjoying himself or herself. They were all having a great time and the vibe was contagious. This was what Emily needed. She needed to be carefree for a couple of hours and worry about things later. This is her time to be free. To be daring. To be young. To be wild.

Emily felt an arm snaked around her waist. Since the club was pack with people, Emily forego many little body touches, but this was not something she wanted. She turned around and found a young gentleman trying to dance with her. Emily shook her head and declined, but he gripped tighter around Emily's waist. Emily tried to push him off, but failed. Emily started to panic. Out the corner of her eyes, she saw Paige motioning the guy towards her. She shouted, "She's with me!" The guy looked at Paige closely before he threw both hands up in an apologetic way and danced away.

Paige faced Emily and smiled. Emily felt relieved, a fluttering in her stomach.

Paige leaned in and joked. "That's what happens when you look so attractive tonight!" Paige placed one of her hand softly on the smalls of Emily's back, but didn't pull her in closer. Emily naturally put both of her arms around Paige's neck and teased back.

"So you think I look attractive?!"

"No! I think you look absolutely breath-taking!"

Emily laughed, leaving her arm around Paige's neck. Be daring. "Dance with me!" It was more of a command than anything, but Emily knew that Paige was going to listen. Paige pulled Emily closer by using her arm that was already holding Emily.

Emily couldn't believe that she barked an order to Paige on the dance floor. Tonight, Emily was feeling great and she just want to have some fun with Paige. Paige was the hottest girl in the club, so of course, Emily wanted to dance with her.

At first, Paige didn't really know what she was doing. She has never danced this close with a girl before, but since Emily asked, she will try her best. Beside, it was Emily Fields who she was dancing with. Paige didn't want to look like a fool. She didn't want to do anything stupid in front of Emily so Paige swayed to the beat. They both were swayed in sync by the next dance song the DJ played. However, every now and then Paige would bounce off beat and Emily laughed, causing her to pull Paige in closer.

Paige was being absolutely adorable and very attractive tonight. Emily couldn't help it by try to push it a little further with Paige. Why not? It's just flirting. It's harmless, she thought.

Emily slowly pulled one of her arm down Paige's back while dancing. It wasn't intentional but Paige felt goose bumps rising all over her body. She couldn't help it. It was sensual. Emily's other arm pulled back but stopped by Paige's shoulder. Emily used her hand to trail up and down Paige's neck. Is this a sign? Paige wondered.

Paige instantly grabbed Emily's waist with her other hand. Paige was debating in her head how far should she tease Emily. Paige didn't want to jeopardize their friendship. Emily was not one of those girls where Paige can just brush off a couple days later. Things would be awkward. However, at the same time, Paige was not going to let Emily get away with teasing her. This was literally flirting with danger, she thought.

Paige snaked both of her arms around Emily's waist and hugged her closer. She let one of her hand slowly gazed the curves of Emily's bottom. Emily gasped unexpectedly, making Paige smile. Hearts beat faster and louder.

Emily knew what Paige was trying to do so she countered by sliding her hand to the side of Paige's face. She cupped Paige's face, forcing the girl to look at her while they're both dancing. Emily placed her leg in between Paige's thighs and moved her hips in a circular motion. Emily saw Paige's jaw clenched, trying to fight against the tension Emily was created against Paige's thigh. Both bodies were heating up.

Paige took a minute to forced her to focus on something else, not on the fact that Emily was grinding against her. She's going to be the death of me. Paige thought to herself, this was it. She has one more move left that could stop all of Emily's teasing. Paige looked down their bodies and watched the way Emily's was moving against hers. Sensations were traveling all through Paige's body and desire lit up behind her eyes. This game is out and over, Paige decided. She wants to push all boundaries with Emily. She didn't care anymore. Paige wanted to give into her desire of kissing Emily.

Paige looked back up at Emily, and licked her lips. Her eyes traveled down Emily's face and stop right on her lips again. Emily's lips curled into a shy smile and Paige didn't want to take her eyes off of them. Paige pulled a hand up and placed it on Emily's cheek. The room was spinning and all Paige could focus on was the girl in front of her. Paige saw an instant blush coloring her cheeks. She slowly inched closer and closer to Emily's face, but refuse to go any further. Emily looked down Paige's lip and crept toward. All noises droned out and all Emily could hear and feel was Paige breathing against her lips.

Do it already!

Paige felt Emily tensing up and stopped dancing. Emily stopped looking at Paige all together. Paige looked into Emily's eyes, searching for a reaction, but Emily glanced past Paige. Paige turned around and her heart sank. Paige could feel all her blood draining from her face as Emily stared straight at Maya.

What the hell?!

Of course, Maya was here, Paige thought. And she was talking with Leslie, out of all people. How ironic. Paige stood up straight and dropped both of her hands in disappointment. Emily couldn't believe her eyes. All excitement disincarnated and confusion took over.

Maya was here in the club, in Philly. What are the chances? Before Emily could think about what to do next, she grabbed Paige's hand and pulled her away with Emily, out of panic. She didn't want Maya to see her there in the club. Please don't run into me, Emily thought. They rushed to the hallway of the club, hidden away from everyone. Emily started pacing back and forth, breathing heavily in and out. Paige looked on, amused at the sight.

"Oh my god! What is she doing here?" Emily frowned, getting more and more stressed. "I was having so much fun and not thinking about her!"

Old feelings were resurfacing, all worries were full-force pushed in front of her brain, and confusion clouded Emily's mind.

"Emily. Don't think about it." Paige said gently, getting annoyed. Folding her arm in front of her chest.

"I can't!" Emily said in frustration, still pacing back and forth in the hallway.

Paige looked on for another five minutes, trying to patiently let Emily calm down. However, Emily was not calming down. She was freaking out even more as time went on. Paige sighed, gathered up all her nerves, and grabbed Emily's arm. Emily looked at her arm, shockingly. Paige's hand imprinted an electric warmth that revived Emily's whole being.

Paige backed her up against the wall and pressed her body against Emily's slightly. She placed one hand on Emily's waist, the other hand gripped Emily's wrist and pinned it over her head. She moved her face close to Emily's without touching.

Emily was shocked and staring back at her with wide-eyes. Emily's blood started getting warmer and warmer. The rhythm of her heart was beating irregularly into her ears. Her head was getting lighter. Her body was getting tingly and numb. She could feel Paige's warm breathe against her face. The intensity glowed behind Paige's eyes as she watched Emily closely.

"Don't. Think." Paige said slowly, emphasizing each word.

Emily stared into Paige's eyes, trying to read her. When she failed, Emily's eyes moved down to Paige's lips. Paige did the same and noticed that Emily was biting her bottom lip. This was a sign. Paige dipped her head and moved in a tad closer. Emily closed her eyes and Paige leaned in all the way.

The first soft brush made Paige's heart drop into her stomach and knock the wind out of her. Emily's head was buzzing at this point. Emily leaned her head back to get some support from the wall as she began to feel like she was unable to stand up on her own. They both stood still, before Paige wanted to taste Emily's lips again. Paige leaned forward again, but used a little more pressure this time. Her hand let go of Emily's wrist and moved down to Emily's neck. She tugged slightly, urging Emily to move in closer. Emily tilted her head slightly so she could kiss Paige back, hard.

This was weird, Emily thought. Her body was still tingling. Emily has never felt these sensations while kissing anyone before. She snaked her arms around Paige's back, pulling her closer so she could feel Paige's body pressed against hers. Even though she couldn't feel her own body, but she could feel Paige's and she like it.

Paige molded with her perfectly. It was not awkward at all. Emily opened her mouth slightly and bitted down on Paige's bottom lip. Paige moaned, encouraging Emily to continue to tease her. Emily could feel Paige smiled against her lips before capturing Emily's bottom lip and tugged on it. This time Emily moaned. Paige pulled back enough to lick Emily's bottom lips one last time. Emily still had her eyes closed, savoring the moment while breathing hard. Emily was trying to get her head to stop spinning and the buzzing to quiet down, but she couldn't shake it. She was literally out of breath, overwhelmed by the emotions she was feeling at the moment.

"Better?" Paige asked staring at the other girl, smirked deviously.

Emily opened her eyes and stared back. She couldn't find her voice at all so she just nodded slowly.

Paige chuckled and joked. "See? It wasn't that hard."

Emily still didn't say anything. Panic set in. Shit! Emily was freaking out, Paige thought. Paige waited again for a response, but Emily continued to stare, making Paige feel very small under the gaze. Conflict came next. Did she regret kissing Emily? No! But maybe she shouldn't have, Emily was still trying to get over Maya and seeing Maya here at the club obviously scared her so why did Paige have to make the situation even worse? Paige's smile disappeared with her train of thought.

"EM!" Hanna yelled, getting both of their attention. Paige quickly moved back, putting some space between them.

"Maya's here. Let's go!" Hanna frantically walked to Emily and grabbed her hand.

Emily opened her mouth to protest, but Hanna yanked her in the opposite direction of where Paige was standing. Emily looked back silently apologizing for leaving so suddenly, but really, Hanna saved her in that moment.

Paige stood there dumb-founded, not knowing how to react. Emily and Paige's relationship has turned from friendship to what? What was that kiss? It was all just fun, right? What did it mean? All of these questions were racing in her head, but all Emily could think about was Paige and the way the girl kissed.


The drive home to Rosewood was long and dreadful. Hanna won't shut up about how Maya showed up at the club and how weird it was. Honestly, the real question should have been 'how small is the world?' The one weekend where Emily didn't want Maya around, she shows up unexpectedly.

Emily leaned her head against the car window and tried to drown out Hanna's babbling, but it was no use. Once they reached the Hastings', everyone piled into the guesthouse in the back. This was one great hiding spot for them; they had access to it whenever they wanted. On the plus side, they didn't have to interrupt anyone's slumber if they all have to enter through the main house.

On Sunday, Emily drifted through the day like a zombie. The girls were getting more and more concerned, but they just assumed that the reason why Emily was acting so odd was the fact that Maya crashed their fun. They had no idea what else happened between Emily and Paige that night. Plus, Emily didn't really want to elaborate.

When Emily stopped at her house that Sunday morning, her mother tried to have a conversation with Emily, but she was not feeling it. She answered with emotionless short answers like yes, no; it was okay, and etc. Pam shook her head, letting it go. It was probably teenager drama, Pam thought. Emily went up to her room and lay on her bed. She stared at the ceiling for the longest time. Not sure how to sort out her conflicted feelings with everything that has happened in the last twenty-four hours.

Emily sighed, thinking that the best way to distract her is to work out her frustration, literally work it out of her system. Emily changed in her running gear and grabbed her IPod on her way out. She ran downstairs and told Pam that she was going to go clear her head and ran through the woods before it got dark.

Running in the evening through Rosewood was the best time. Everyone usually goes out for Sunday dinner so there were plenty of people around. Emily was plugged in. She was focused. She didn't let anything else interrupt her mind beside the bass that was beating through her headphones. Her pulse was beating louder and louder. Sweat forming and soaking her clothing.

Step.

Breath.

Step.

Breath.

Emily chanted in her head.

The full moon illuminated the sky, as the color grew darker in shades. Emily had to stop and catch her breath. She stared out into the water and pulled out her headphones. Both hands on her knees as she crouched over to catching her breathe. Crickets chirping. Owls wooed in the distance. A gentle breeze rustled the luscious layer of trees and it smelled like oak. This is gorgeous, she thought. It was so peaceful out here.

"Hey! Get off my property!"

Emily jumped, coldness flashed through her entire body. She turned around; ready to sprint away before getting caught trespassing. She stopped dead in her tracks when she heard a booming laughter from a familiar cabin. Emily was so preoccupied with enjoying the view of the lake that she didn't even take the time to see where she was. She was here. The same spot as always. Right here once again.

Emily walked up to the cabin and saw Paige standing, leaning against one of the wooden post on the patio. Paige was trying to avoid heading back to town and running into familiar faces, so she decided to hide out in the cabin for the night. Standing out on the patio, catching the freshness of the woods, Paige would have never thought she would see a familiar silhouette again. She knew instantly who it was and she couldn't resist giving the girl a good scare.

"Emily," Paige greeted.

It was dark and Emily could barely make out Paige's facial expression, but she could feel Paige staring at her, and for how long, Emily did not know. The awkwardness in the air was thick. Things were still in limbo-land with Emily and Paige. Both stood there in silence, not knowing what to say.

"What are you doing here?" They both said at the same time, both girls giving each other the same shock facial expression before laughing at the same time.

Emily looked at Paige, waiting for her to give her explanation first.

"Well, this is my family's cabin." Paige stated the oblivious. "You?"

Emily looked back out to the waters again. She sighed before continuing. "I needed to clear my head."

"And you came here?" Paige questioned, wondering why.

"Yeah. I don't know why I always end up back here." Emily said, not sure if her answer explained anything to Paige.

Paige nodded and struggled to find something to say. Emily was struggling as well as time passed.

"Can I show you something?" Paige asked out of the blue.

Emily knotted her eyebrows together, not sure if she should accept or decline Paige's offer. It was beginning to get darker and Emily had to return soon so her mother wouldn't worry.

Decline her politely and go home, Emily!

Paige chuckled, sensing Emily's hesitation. "Don't worry. It will be quick."

Emily looked at Paige and agreed. Paige climbed over the railings of the patio and jumped down to Emily's level, landing on both feet.

"Follow me." Paige said, grabbing Emily's hand.

Emily's eyes drew to their hands. Paige's hand was warm and a little rough, but it felt protective around Emily's. Emily looked to where Paige was leading them and she got concerned. They have walked passed the cabin, ducking under numerous trees, and Emily could see the lake looking further and further away.

"Where are we going?" Emily asked, anxious.

Paige could feel Emily get weary so she stroked the back of Emily's hand with her thumb, hoping that the gesture would reassurance Emily.

"We're here." Paige stated.

Emily dropped her hand and looked around. Wow was all she could think of saying.

"This is my favorite hidden spot in the woods." Emily heard Paige say next to her.

It was a meadow in the middle of tall, towering trees. The grass was soft and thick. Emily felt the cool grass tickle her as she took small steps through the meadow. The sky looked so clear and the stars stood out against the contrasting dark sky.

"Come on." Paige motioned her over.

Paige stopped in the middle of the meadow and lay down. Emily mimicked her actions, taking her place next to Paige. Paige has never brought anyone to this spot before, but she hoped Emily loved it as much as she does. Emily was the first.

They laid in silent and looked up towards the sky.

"I love it here." Emily said, quietly.

Paige smiled to herself, glad that she brought Emily here. Paige nodded in agreement. They continued to lay in silence. Paige closed her eyes, ready to drift of to sleep when Emily spoke up.

"What are we doing?" Wanting to know what Paige was thinking.

Paige opened her eyes and turned her body to her side, facing Emily. Emily was already on her side, looking at Paige. The two of them just stared.

Paige shrugged, playing dumb. "Laying."

"No. That's not what I meant." What are we doing, Paige?

"What did you mean then?" Paige insisted again, trying to not have 'the talk' right here. Drop it, Emily.

Emily continued to intensively stare at Paige and the auburn-haired girl gave in, knowing that Emily would be bothered by 'the event' unless they sort it out right now. She decided to turn the table around, and focus on Emily.

"What do you want to do?" Paige asked.

"I don't know." Emily looked worry and troubled.

"Do what you want to do." Paige simply offered.

"It's not that simple, Paige." Emily was on the verge of crying and Paige could tell.

Paige moved closer to Emily, still holding her laying position. Paige moved one hand up and tucked a loose strand of hair behind Emily's ear. That was a sweet gesture, Emily thought.

Paige looked back to Emily.

"It is simple." Paige paused. "You're not over Maya and we kissed at the club. It's not a big deal."

Emily searched into Paige's eye and found no emotion. This is so confusing, Paige.

Emily sighed sadly, "I want to get over her."

Paige nodded and said, "I know."

Emily continued, "But I don't want to jump into another relationship."

Paige retorted sarcastically. "Whoa, Emily! Slow down. Just because I kissed you, doesn't mean I want to date you." Paige smiled, turning to look at the sky.

"This is not funny!" Emily felt like she was losing a battle.

Paige can always turn a serious conversation into a joke and Emily really wanted to sort this out. She smacked Paige softly on the shoulder.

"Listen. You were freaking out and I didn't know what else to do." Paige said coolly, smirking. She should have thought about this before kissing Emily, but now it was too late. Nice save!

"So it meant…?" Emily asked again, studying Paige closely. She felt a hint of disappointment when Paige said what she said earlier.

Paige took a minute to ponder about it. Paige insisted confidently, lying to herself, "Nothing."

Since she moved to Rosewood and met Emily, her whole focus always came back to Emily Fields. At that moment, she realized that she didn't like that. The kiss did mean something, but at the same time, she doesn't want the kiss to change her.

It's just a kiss. Simple, nothing more.

Emily nodded. Her heart sank in disappointment. So they're still friends, Emily thought. She was relieved, but she felt something else too. Something she couldn't put her finger on. She turned so she could lie on her back and stared at the sky. She decided to dismiss it and think about something else since Paige declared that what they shared at the club had no meaning. Then what did she want from Paige? That thought lingered in her mind.

"You must bring all your girlfriends here, huh?" Emily asked, wanting to know.

"Okay. One: I don't do girlfriends." Paige shrugged. "And no. You're the first girl I have brought here."

"Liar." Emily said instantly, refusing to believe that she was the first. It was so ridiculous to think that she started to laugh.

Paige seemed to be amused by Emily also. She smiled and asked. "Why is that hard to believe?"

"Because you're Paige McCullers. You have a different girl every week. Don't say you don't do girlfriends."

"Yeah, but it was nothing serious. Like I said, I like casual relationships. When the girl wants the 'girlfriend' title, I move on. Next!" Paige proudly stated.

Emily turned and smacked Paige again. "You're horrible!"

Paige laughed. It was true. Paige didn't do relationship and the whole 'girlfriend' thing. She could get any girl that she wanted, all fun and games, and nothing serious. Beside, there was no rush right now. Paige is a firm believer in destiny. When love wants to hit Paige in the face, then it will. There was no reason for Paige to go out of her way to find love when it supposes to find her first.

When it came to Emily, Paige still doesn't know how to deal with it. Emily was different. Paige doesn't want get attach to Emily. She refuse let herself get attach. The girl will make her do things that she doesn't want to do and feel things that she doesn't want to feel. Paige didn't want any of it. However, Paige did have fun flirting with Emily last night and that kiss was beyond memorable.

Paige stood up abruptly, startling Emily. "We got to get you back home, miss."

Emily stood up too, looking at her phone. It was almost 9 p.m. Her mother might call her any minute and she won't be able to answer due to the area.

"I'll walk you back." Paige offered, tucking both of her hands into her front pockets.

Emily stood up and quietly followed. "So we're good? No weirdness? Still friends?"

Paige turned around and said, "Yup. We're still friends." Nothing has change, Paige tried to convince her self.


Friends.

Emily sat outside at their usually lunch table since one of her class got cancelled.

The courtyard was empty. The weather was beautiful.

Friends. That word was running through her head as she thought about Paige.

It has been two days since Emily and Paige has worked out their 'situation. However, the conclusion of the conversation did nothing for Emily, but just confused her even more. Paige said that the kiss meant nothing, but how could it be nothing when Emily felt something. Still even if she felt something, what was she going to do? Deep down inside she knew that she somewhat still missed Maya and that was eating her alive, just thinking about it.

Emily wanted to move on, but when she thought she was making progress, Maya showed up, and everything comes falling apart. Emily hasn't seen Maya since Saturday and that has been great. She could breathe with ease, knowing that Maya wasn't around.

God! She was so stupid. Falling for Maya, so deep and too quick. Sitting outside trying to be productive, trying to do her homework, but all she could think about was her ex-girlfriend. What hurt the most was opening up to that person, breaking down all walls, and letting Maya see the real her. Thinking what they had was safe, but it was Emily's mistake. She gave herself away too much and never got the same in return. Emily felt used. Now Maya doesn't want her anymore. The most pathetic part was that Maya still gets to her. Maya got to her at the club and she freaked out. Maya was getting to her now and she was not even physically at school!

"Hey, Emily."

Emily looked up. Patrick cheerful walked over, juggling a basketball in his hands.

"Why the long face?" Patrick sat next to Emily, setting the basketball down on the table. "Are you pondering about life?" He joked.

Emily gave a weak laughter. Patrick has no idea how right he was.

"Um…I don't know. No? Kind of?" She was going to lie about it, but what was the point? She didn't want to answer twenty different questions again, but she felt that Patrick was not that type of person.

Patrick laughed and shook his head.

Emily tiredly asked, "How do you get over an ex, Patrick?"

"Ohhhh." Patrick said, knowing what was troubling Emily. "Time?" Patrick guessed.

"Yeah? How much time?" Emily asked.

Patrick looked at Emily for a second before looking away. He was getting uncomfortable just talking about the subject of exes. Patrick never understood why girls take longer to get over an ex. For him, it was easy, but he guessed that was the difference between guys and girls. Girls were more sentimental than guys in terms of relationship.

Emily could sense that she was asking the wrong person for advice so she changed the subject, hoping it would distract her from dwelling on Maya. "So, you play basketball?"

Patrick looked up and said, "Yeah. Just for fun. With my boys. And Paige."

Emily gave him a curious look. Another surprise, Emily thought. Paige seemed to be able to do anything and everything. What other things can't that girl do?

"She plays basketball?"

"Yeah. She's actually really good. A little aggressive, but when you play against guys, you kinda need to be tough." Patrick said, proudly. "I taught her a thing or two."

Emily sat for a little bit longer, feeling like it was time for her to end to conversation. She gathered up her stuff. "I think I am going to go visit my mom at work."

Patrick nodded, stood up, and grabbed the basketball. He walked away, but stopped. He was debating if he should return to Emily and give her some advice. He sighed, giving in. He turned and walked back to the table.

"I know you feel beyond broken right now. The truth is…you are and that sucks. It sucks when someone breaks you open and leave you vulnerable, but you're going to be okay."

"Thanks, Patrick." Emily said quietly. She decided to move in and give him a hug, thanking him for his kind words.

Patrick returned the hug and he looked back at Emily.

"This pain is only going to be a speck in your world. Everyday that speck is going to get smaller and smaller compared to other things in your life. Don't focus on it. Look forward to other things in life." Patrick said. "See you around, Emily."

He winked at Emily before heading off in the direction of the gym.


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