Chapter Text
“You want to—You want to go on a cross-country road trip to all of the universities you were accepted to in the United States?” Beatrice asks, and her best friend shakes her head excitedly in agreement. “All in one week?”
“Uh-huh,” Ava smiles. “So what do you say, will you come with me?”
This is not the wildest idea she has heard from Ava Silva. Not by a long shot. However, the fact of the matter is that Ava seems really excited about the idea of this trip. Well, she is not just excited about this trip, but rather about the prospect of studying at an American university. She has always dreamed of seeing new places and traveling abroad, as she was unable to do so during her childhood.
Ava has saved up every single pound of what she has now to make this trip happen, and she budgeted enough to bring Beatrice with her as well. Staring into Ava’s hopeful, large brown eyes and pouty lips, she knows what her answer will be.
Beatrice has never said no to Ava a day in her life, and with the current view in front of her, she does not think this time will be any different.
“What will we tell our parents?” Beatrice asks, knowing that whatever they come up with, she will end up in trouble. However, she does not care about that part. All she cares about is making sure the smile on Ava’s face never fades, keeping her as happy as she can. “They may find it strange when we do not come home for the academic break.”
“Then we will, uh, just tell them that we are staying at each other’s houses! I don’t know something like that,” Ava exhales, abandoning her makeshift PowerPoint presentation on her desk to walk over and sit next to Beatrice on the lofted bed. “You know how much I want to go to the United States and attend school there.”
“Yes, but I also know that you have Jillian, who would be more than willing to take you there on a holiday with Michael to visit any university you would like to. We don’t have to sneak out and potentially risk the consequences of doing so,” Beatrice points out to her softly.
Ava groans, leaning back onto the bed in response, “So you don’t want to go with me?”
“I did not say that,” Beatrice grins, leaning back onto the bed, lying next to her. She looks over at her, not minding how close they are to each other. She has learned to find comfort in these moments, though she knows that this is all it is with Ava. Just them being this close, never closer, not the way she wants to be, at least. “I just think there are other options we should possibly consider…”
There are plenty of reasons that she can think of, but three stick out to her the most. First, she hasn’t fully come out yet, at least officially, to her friends and family. Beatrice has known for a while now. The way she looks at Ava just a little bit longer, admiring the way her eyes glisten when she smiles. Her favorite sound is hearing Ava laugh. Then, there is a warm feeling in the pit of her stomach every time she is near Ava, yearning to be with her in whatever way possible.
While she is comfortable with her sexuality, she’s terrified of what others will think. Her parents, specifically. They are English diplomats who only care about appearances and surely would not tolerate their only daughter being…well, to put it plainly, gay.
Second, it’s against her religious beliefs. To be more specific, it is against everything that she has been taught growing up in the Catholic Church that having the feelings she does for Ava, her girl best friend, is a sin. Beatrice used to feel conflicted about it, but seeing more and more people in her life pursue their desires makes her think that it is a possibility for her as well. All the while, she can still maintain her faith.
Beatrice’s last point, one that cannot be overlooked, is that Ava has a boyfriend, J.C., who is sort of a good friend to her. They spend time in the same social circles. J.C. was one of the first people Beatrice met at the Royal Russell School upon her arrival. He is also part of the reason why she and Ava became friends in the first place. If J.C. came to class that day Ava first arrived, Beatrice would have never gotten to sit next to Ava, and they never would have met.
Beatrice knows that she cannot do anything about the feelings she has for Ava due to all of the aforementioned reasons. Yet another reason to note is that Beatrice is not even sure if Ava will reciprocate them back, and if she doesn’t–
Never mind all of that now.
Beatrice is solely content with having Ava in her life and intends to keep it that way, even if she has to watch her be in love with someone else.
“Did you ask J.C. to go with you, Ava? What does he think about you wanting to study abroad?” Beatrice questions her softly.
Ava lets out a heavy sigh, looking into her eyes. It’s like she’s searching for something, just staring, nothing more. She speaks in a hushed tone, “He wouldn’t want to come with me to America.”
“How would you know if you did not ask him?”
“Uh, I did ask him, sort of…” Ava’s tone weaves in notes of sadness that make Beatrice feel numb. Her tone shifts when she asks, “Can we talk about something else?”
As much as Beatrice wants to make Ava happy at this moment, she cannot ignore the unknowns. So much can go wrong. She wants to be sure that Ava has thought it all through first. Her best friend is very much a punch-first, ask-questions-later kind of girl, so she knows that at times, being her voice of reason is a good safety net for her.
Beatrice turns her body completely towards Ava, resting her hands underneath her head, “I want to talk about this trip, Ava. I do not think it is wise for us to pack up and go to another country without letting our parents know. What if something happens while we are there? What if they start looking for us?”
Ava thinks about this, and it is a while before she shifts her body as well, mimicking Beatrice’s current position with her head resting on her hands. Ava exhales. “So then we won’t go alone, if you’re worried. We can go with Lilith…Maybe Mary, Dora, or Camila.”
Beatrice chuckles, “You say that as if Camila does come, Lilith wouldn’t follow.”
Ava laughs, and it makes Beatrice feel waves of warmth and relief when she sees her become happy again. Ava continues, “You’re right. Lilith would follow Camila anywhere. You know, thinking about it now, I don’t remember a time before they started dating where you see either one of them alone.”
“Hmm, yes, it seems Lilith has become the clingy one in their relationship, though I doubt that Camila minds,” Beatrice chuckles in response. “Though I wouldn’t tell Lilith that, she would not be too happy to admit it.”
“The last time I tried to get Lilith to admit something, she hid my practice kit, and Coach S. was so upset when I showed up on the pitch in just my sports bra and my gym shorts.” Ava reminisces with a scowl on her face.
“Well, we do attend a strictly private Catholic school. What did you think would happen?” Beatrice laughs, remembering how Ava attempted to get out of trouble that day and how miserably it all turned out for her. It always amazes Beatrice how, in those situations, Ava could remain so confident and spirited, even when facing something so daunting as getting reprimanded. That day, Beatrice was thankful that she could help Ava by letting her borrow an extra training kit, which she happened to have in her duffle, so Ava was able to continue training.
Ava grumbles, “I don’t know. I could get away with it for the day. It turns out I just got detention the next day and had a very long conversation with Headmaster Frances. The only good thing was that you got detention that day, too, so I wouldn’t be alone!”
“I keep telling you that I did not get detention on purpose.” Beatrice tries her best to contain her smile, but it is nearly impossible when she is with Ava. It always seems that way.
“Sure, keep telling yourself that.” Ava sighs, turning to adjust herself on the bed a bit more. Beatrice takes mental note of how much closer she now is.
Beatrice feels calmer, although she fights back the urge to stroke Ava’s cheek or to touch her at all.
Ava is dating J.C. It's wrong for Beatrice to feel the way she does about her, and she’s not out yet, officially, at least. These are all valid reasons for her to take the road less traveled and not admit her feelings to her best friend.
Why would one risk losing it all by such an admission?
Encapsulated by Ava’s beaming eyes, Beatrice grits her teeth and exhales internally.
Ava questions her again, this time with a playful smirk, “So, now I’ll ask before you try to change the subject again. Will you come with me?”
All of the consequences and reasons not to go flew over her head the moment Ava first asked the question. As much as it is a risk, Beatrice will always choose to make Ava happy.
Beatrice lets out a small breath and nods, “Of course I will. However, we should still get the others on board. Just to be safe.”
“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” Ava’s smile is wide, and she squeals, closing the distance between them with a haphazard embrace. Beatrice feels Ava nuzzle her head into the crook of her neck, as she’s done so many times before, and Beatrice takes the time to revel in it while she can.
Beatrice holds her close, patting her back while she responds, “It is not a problem. If it is your dream to study in America, then I want to help you make it happen.”
Ava pulls away, still beaming, “You are the best, Bea. Really. I do not know what I would do without you.”
Beatrice chuckles, “I am sure you would manage just fine without me, Aves.”
Ava seems lost in thought as she bites her lip for a moment before she adjusts herself on the bed. She shifted herself to sit up on her legs as she exhales, “So, how do you think we should go about getting the rest of our friends on board?”
Beatrice sits up and tilts her head, “I think our best odds start with Camila–”
📍🏫- - - - >🗺️⁀જ✈︎ + 🫂 = 🫶
The next day, after the first half of their scheduled classes concludes, Beatrice follows Ava to the canteen during lunch. Ava is never one to care about what other people think about her, so as they walked through the halls, Ava held Beatrice’s hand.
Ever since they met on that first day in primary school, holding hands has been a way for them to stay together at all times. Ava always gave Beatrice the option to say no, but Beatrice appreciated the gesture. As they grew older, the connotations around them holding hands changed. Their fellow schoolmates had other opinions about the pair of best friends. Although Ava did not care what others thought, and since that was the case, neither did Beatrice.
“I cannot believe Sister Emilene. I swear that woman has it out for me,” Ava huffs.
“You think all of our instructors do, and frankly, you did start it,” Beatrice exhales, looking at her furrowed brow. She always looks adorable when she is angry like this. Beatrice recomposes herself, clearing her throat, “You cannot insult her outfit when it’s the same one all nuns wear.”
“She insulted what I’m wearing first,” Ava sighs. “I was only missing one button on my blouse, then suddenly I’m violating the dress code, and I’m staying with her after classes end. It was the only shirt I could find this morning that just happened to be missing a button.”
“Actually, it was not one…it was a few, and I told you to wear your tie to hide it.”
“Wow, thanks for the honesty, sister photographic memory.” Ava rolls her eyes, but she shifts her tone when she says, “Thanks for letting me borrow your jumper for the rest of the day. God knows how many more detentions I would get without it.”
“It’s no problem,” Beatrice grins, seeing Ava’s mood seemingly fade.
Perhaps she stares at Ava for a little too long because she never realizes when they stop walking. Or that now, Camila is standing in front of them after just closing her locker.
Ava smirks, using her other hand to wave to her. Camila smiles, walks closer to the pair, and asks, “Are you two having a fight? I saw Ava looking a little tense while you two were walking here.”
“Oh, no, just–”
“Sister Emilene,” Ava scowls, cutting off Beatrice. “I swear that woman hates me.”
“Oh, you and me both. I had her last term, and she was so upset when I kept asking her questions, as if it was my fault. Her teaching style makes no sense. I really think she hates her job,” Camila adds.
“Or children in general.” Beatrice shrugs.
“Maybe both. I do not know how she ended up in this school if she does not like teaching or kids,” Ava adds.
“No clue,” Camila sighs. “So, anything else new with you guys?”
“Yes, actually,” Ava looks at Beatrice, then smiles, looking back at Camila. We’re going on a trip to the great U.S. of A., and we wanted you to come with us during our break next week.”
“I can say for sure that most people living there right now will not agree with you about the great part, but yeah, sure. I have no plans next week, and I’ll probably just tell my mom whatever excuse. She’ll most likely be okay with it since it gets one of her five kids out of the house.” Camila smiles.
Ava squeals, “Yes, Camila! I love you, oh my gosh…Alright, so we just have a favor to ask of you.”
“Sure, anything, shoot,” Camila muses.
Ava leans over and whispers something in Camila’s ear, and Beatrice sees the gears shifting through her expression. Then Ava pulls away, and Camila’s smirk is wide on her face when she nods, “Oooo, I’m so in! And don’t worry, I can get Lilith on board too.”
“Just like that?” Beatrice feels a pang of worry due to her mischievous tone, “Also, do I want to know what you are planning on doing?”
“No,” Camila quickly adds, smiling. “Don’t worry about it. It’s relatively safe and one hundred percent effective.”
“Relatively?” Beatrice ponders, but Camila seems to wave off the concern.
“Come on, let’s go eat!” Camila instructs, guiding them to the canteen.
They soon make it after a few more small chats along the way. Camila is quick to ditch them and skips over to the table where Lilith and Mary are in the middle of eating. Meanwhile, Yasmine has her head deep into her book, flipping through it fervently.
Ava looks over to Beatrice, “I guess she’s skipping lunch today.”
“No, I suspect Lilith will prepare a plate for her.” Beatrice gestures over to their smaller friend, who was already making quick work of her girlfriend. Ava laughs at the scene playing out, and Beatrice joins her.
The head tilt, puppy eyes, and kiss on the cheek that follow are all it takes for the two to see Lilith get up and join the line behind them. Ava smiles cheekily toward Lilith, who glares at her in response, “I am not in the mood for your antics today, Silva.”
“Aw, what antics? I can’t say hi to my second favorite person in the world, whom I haven’t seen all day?” Ava teases, but Lilith exhales deeply. Beatrice tries to keep Ava focused on the task at hand and passes her a plate, placing it into her hands and then onto the counter. Then Beatrice takes one for herself before she turns her attention to look at the meal options.
“Oh, piss off, Ava,” Lilith retorts. “I know for a fact that after Beatrice, Mary is your favorite, and then Camila.”
Ava scoffs, “That’s not true! Tell her, Bea.”
“Ava, you know I will not argue with Lilith for you. Make sure you grab a protein on your plate as well,” Beatrice slides in, hoping that Ava will finally give up her argument. Although knowing Ava, Beatrice opts to put Ava’s favorite protein on her plate before adding more vegetables.
It is not always like this; sometimes, they alternate making each other’s meals depending on the day. Either way, they both appreciate the little things. For example, Beatrice knows that just adding a bit of flake to Ava’s bowl of yogurt will make her mood plenty times better, no matter what.
“Exactly, Silva, fight your own battles,” Lilith contests as she fixes Camila’s plate.
Ava huffs before she looks down to see the spread on her plate, and her mind instantly wanders off the current topic. Beatrice smiles, seeing her best friend get excited at the sight of her favorite midday treat.
Lilith shakes her head in disappointment as she continues to make Camila’s plate, walking around both of them in the line.
“Flake! Bea!” Ava leans up and kisses her on the cheek, catching her by surprise. “This is just what I needed today. I love you so much. You are amazing.”
Ava brushes by her in the line, and Beatrice feels her face warm up. She brings her fingers up to touch where Ava kissed her, and she tries to process it. Thoughts run through her mind as she can barely even think of a viable response to the gesture. The only thing she does is grin, and she most likely looks like a fool; she is very aware of that fact.
Exhaling, she closes her eyes and opens them shortly after to continue through the line following Ava.
As soon as they finish making their plates, they join all their friends at the table. Mary waves at them, Camila just begins to eat her food, Lilith actively avoids eye contact with either one of them, and Yasmine briefly smiles at them before rereading her book.
“Hmm, what’s up with you two?” Mary asks.
“Nothing, well, just a small disagreement,” Ava admits. “Nothing that we cannot move past, right, Lilith?”
Lilith fakes a smile toward Ava as she turns away, pulling out her phone.
Beatrice exhales, reaching down to pick up her silverware to begin eating, when she hears Ava clear her throat, “Anyway, I uh, had something I wanted to run by you guys…as like an idea for the break that we can do together—”
“Hard pass,” Lilith is quick to respond.
Ava scoffs, “You didn’t even hear what I was going to say!”
“Spending my time with you during our last break of the year is not something I would particularly choose to do on purpose. So save your breath, my answer is no.” Lilith explains.
“Come on, Lil, maybe we should hear her out,” Mary suggests.
“Yeah, baby, hear her out,” Camila smiles at her while wrapping her hand around her arm. She leans her head on her shoulder and looks up at her, and the frown on Lilith’s face instantly vanishes.
“Go on, Silva,” Lilith huffs.
“Great, so you all know how I want to study in America for university, and applied for all the schools I want to go to, and received offers for–” Ava looks around the group with all eyes on her now, even Yasmine’s. “Well, I planned out this trip so I could visit all of them during the break. So Beatrice and I thought that it would be a good idea for us to all go together, you know, one last adventure together, before we graduate, in four different American cities on a trip. So what do you all think?”
The silence is unexpected. Beatrice expected Lilith not to have an immediate answer, but with Yasmine and Mary, she is not sure what is going on in their minds.
“Absolutely not,” Lilith contests. “I know you’re daft, but I did not think you were mental as well. Do you really think we could just go away on break, to America, by ourselves? It’s a bizarre, reckless, and thoughtless idea for you to even suggest that we are able to go without getting in trouble.”
“She’s kind of got a point, Ava. My mom might be cool with it, but I can see Lilith and Beatrice’s parents blowing their lids if they find out that they are not coming home for the break.” Mary adds.
“Also, not to be the person that brings up money, but would we have to pay our own way there?” Yasmine asks. “I already spent the allowance my parents sent me for the semester, and I do not think I would be able to afford it right now.”
“Those are all good points, and I did not account for you all joining us, but I think it could be a fun trip.” Ava tries to convince them, “Who knows when we’ll see each other again after we graduate?”
“Another point is that it would most likely be much safer if we all traveled together; the more of us, the better. Especially in a country none of us are familiar with. If none of you want to go, then that is fine as well, but Ava and I are going on this trip no matter what.” Beatrice reassures the group with, “Also, if money is an issue, I can handle any other costs that arise.”
Ava turns her head. “Bea, are you sure?”
“Yes,” Beatrice nods. “I will handle my parents when we get back, but they most likely will just give me a stern talking to about spending money so frivolously."
Or forbid her from leaving their house for the rest of her life. Either way, Beatrice knows that she will deal with whatever turmoil Ava’s trip will bring because it is Ava’s dream. She wants to help her make it happen.
“Lilith, come on!” Camila tries to coax her girlfriend. “Remember, you were just saying that you wanted to do something fun before you commit to the Club team completely after we graduate? This is your chance. We can have fun in new places, eat new food, and best of all, we can spend some time together.”
Lilith huffs, shaking her head as she gives in. “Fine, fine, but this is not for Ava’s dream or whatever.”
Mary chuckles, “Fuck it, if Lilith’s in, than so am I.”
“You can count me in as well,” Yasmine grins. “I can pay you back as soon as my parents transfer more money into my account, Beatrice.”
“It’s not necessary, Yasmine, but thank you,” Beatrice grins
“I’m in too!” Another voice shouts out, and they all turn their heads to see Dora standing behind the row of Yasmine, Camila, and Lilith as she tries to catch her breath. “Wow, I probably should not have cheated during sprints at training.”
“How would you even–” Lilith starts to question, but she changes the subject. “How did you even hear our conversation? You just ran to the table.”
“I didn’t hear your conversation, but I heard you guys saying you’re in, and that means I’m in too,” Dora laughs.
“Ava wants to go to America for our break next week, and Beatrice will pay for everyone except for Ava,” Camila informs her.
Beatrice shakes her head, “No, Camila, that’s not what I meant–”
“That sounds good to me! I can pack my bags and meet you guys whenever,” Dora exclaims. “I’m always ready for a free trip to another country.”
“Seriously, just like that?” Lilith questions her, then she sighs. “Never mind, don’t reply, just sit down and try not to say anything else that will make me change my decision about going on this trip.”
Clapping her hands together, Dora plops down at the table next to Camila, then looks around at the rest of the group, asking, “So what are we doing? What is the plan for next week?”
“Yes, actually, that is a good question.” Yasmine looks between Ava and Beatrice, asking, “What would we tell our parents?”
Ava grins. “You can tell them–”
📱⁀જ✈︎
“Yes, mother.” Beatrice paces around her room, her fingers trailing along the comforter as she hears her mother’s concerns. When the rambling stops, Beatrice tells her, “It is a training camp with the New York and New Jersey Gotham Football Club at their stadium. Coach Superion thought that it would be a good experience for us to have as we are going to move into the club team after graduation.”
Beatrice hears her mother sigh loudly, “Beatrice, I do not know if you should be attending. Your father and I have already made so many plans for you during your break, so many appearances we have to make as a family.”
She had a feeling her mother would say something like this, especially since Beatrice’s planned school breaks barely left any free time for herself. There were always family appearances at various government officials' events, and there was barely time for Beatrice to enjoy her time off from learning.
She said yes to Ava to help her get one step closer to her dream of studying in America. However, a part of her was saying yes for herself, to have, as Ava called it, one last adventure together before graduation.
So she will have to tell her mother something that she wants to hear.
“Mother, a lot of their club’s coaches will be there, and Coach Superion said that their head coach is Juan Carlos Amorós. He used to coach the Tottenham Hotspur football club. If he sees me train, perhaps he would be able to have a word with other football clubs in the Premier League.” Beatrice explains, looking at Ava, who is on the phone as well.
“It would be a wise choice to get a head start on your future career, and you would be able to gain insight before you decide on which club offer you want to accept. Perhaps you would even be able to finally select one if you do go,” Her mother ponders for a moment. Then Beatrice hears her tone shift, “Fine, you can go to the training session in New York. Make sure you pack well, take your credit card, and make sure you take care of yourself while you travel.”
“I will, mother,” Beatrice says softly. “Thank you.”
“I will speak to your father about this, and he will be okay. Do not worry,” Her mother tells her. “We will visit you when you come back to the academy. We will have to have dinner once you finally make your club decision.”
Beatrice agrees, saying goodbye to her before she hangs up the phone. There is a reason why she has not yet decided on which club team she will join after graduation. Currently, there are numerous offers, even one for Chelsea, but Beatrice does not want to continue her professional career after graduation.
At least, not without Ava.
Before she met Ava, football was not as enjoyable. Sure, she excelled, but there was no joy in her heart for the sport. Then, when that short little brunette girl stumbled into her at their first training session together by mistake, ever since that moment, there has never been a dull moment on the pitch.
Ever since then, she knew Ava was an important person in her life.
Beatrice now watches Ava on the phone with her mother, Jillian Salvius, or, as Ava always corrects her, her adoptive mother.
“Yes, Beatrice’s parents are letting her go, too,” Ava says, catching Beatrice’s glance and smiling.
Beatrice grins, sliding both hands into her pockets as she leans back against her bed. Ava mumbles, “Fine,” before tapping on her screen, holding the phone closer to Beatrice, and then Jillian’s voice booms from Ava’s speaker.
“Hello Beatrice!”
“Hello, Ms. Salvius,” Beatrice responds, not really sure why she needs to say hello in person. Normally, Jillian would ask Ava to say hello for her, but this time, she is up to something. “Are you well this evening?”
“I am. Thank you for asking,” Jillian replies. “I wanted to make sure that your parents really are letting you go to this training session in New York.”
Beatrice takes in Ava’s annoyed expression and grits her teeth. She looks apologetically toward her, replying to her mother on the phone, “Uh, yes. I just spoke with them about it, and they are letting me attend the session.”
“Seriously, Jillian?” Ava asks her. “I just told you that they did—”
Jillian cuts her off, “I just wanted to be sure, Ava. I trust you, and I just want to be sure you’ll be safe while you are there. I know you will be, since Beatrice is going as well. Just…please call me when you arrive, and if you ever need anything, extra funds transferred to your account, anything, please just call.”
Ava nods, exhaling, “Fine. I’ll call you if I need anything…Thank you for letting me go.”
“Have a good night, dear,” Jillian’s soft tone echoes, as Ava pulls the phone closer to her. “Good night, Beatrice!”
“Good night, Ms. Salvius.”
Ava hangs up the phone and throws it, watching it bounce from the comforter off the bed to the carpeted floor below. Ava huffs, lying back on her bed as she whispers, “I’m sorry about that.”
Beatrice hops onto the lofted bed and lies next to Ava, facing her. She smiles softly. “There’s no need to apologize, really. Your mot–Jillian, she cares about you. Truly, she does. A lot more than my parents do.”
Ava scoffs, “Like your parents don’t care. They wanted you home for the break.”
“For the public appearances, not that they were going to spend any time with me,” Beatrice explains.
“Is that why you were so quick to say yes?” Ava looks at her with her brown eyes, and Beatrice cannot help but clinch her fists tightly.
“Well, it was one of the reasons,” Beatrice whispers. “I know how much this trip means to you.”
Ava looks down, then she sighs, “Do you think I should even go? To America, that is for school. I’ve had a few club offers, and Jillian seems excited about the idea of me playing in the Premier League, but I don’t think it’s what I want. At least not right now, you know. I want to travel, see other cities, experience what it could be like to just be–”
“Normal,” Beatrice finishes for her.
“I guess something like that.” Ava huffs, “I just do not want to rush into anything. We only live in this life once. I just want to enjoy it while I can before going pro, you know?”
“I can understand that, not wanting to rush into being a professional just yet,” Beatrice admits, gritting her teeth before she continues, “Sometimes, I think that’s all my parents care about. To them, my love for football will not be a complete waste of my academic talents if I go to a professional club.”
“Hey,” Ava sits up, inching ever so closer to Beatrice, and she says, “You know that if you do not want to go pro, it is okay. Just tell them, even if they do not like it, it does not matter. It’s your life, not theirs.”
“As easy as you make it sound, I cannot do that, but I am hoping that as we get closer to the end of the spring term, I will be able to tell them.” Beatrice smiles weakly. She also hopes that by then, she will be able to tell Ava how she feels, but she knows that going down that road is risky.
“Well, no matter what happens, I’m here for you. Always, HoneyBea.”
Beatrice winces at the nickname, one that Ava never let go of. Out of all the names she insists on calling her, that one always makes Beatrice feel strangely, not because of the name itself, but rather why Ava insists on calling her that.
“A bee and a flower, a perfect pair,” Beatrice chuckles. That drawing Ava made when they first became friends in primary school is the screensaver on her phone. A bee and a flower, or as Ava instructed her, the two reflected them.
“Not just any flower. It has to be a sunflower,” Ava corrects her, “And yes, always.”
Perhaps they look at each other for a little longer than they should, but it does not seem that Ava minds. It makes her feel nervous, the pitter-patter of her heart with every second that passes by. As much as she is enjoying the quiet moment of this, just being here with Ava, she knows that this is dangerous for her. The split in the road could lead to a disaster, and that is before this trip even begins. Yes, well, she needs to keep her feelings for her best friend to herself.
Beatrice clears her throat, “I should finish packing,” slowly getting up.
“No, wait,” Ava stops her, placing a hand on Beatrice’s shoulder to prevent her from leaving. “Is it okay if we just stay here and maybe cuddle?”
Beatrice should say no, and she knows that while Ava would be disappointed, she would understand. A part of her doesn’t want to, though, the selfish part. The part that might definitely ruin her current relationship with Ava.
Instead of fighting that part, she says softly, looking into Ava’s pleading expression, “Okay.”
Ava’s smile is worth it, especially as she feels her resting against her chest as they continue to take in the silence of the room together. The serenity of the moment is enough to make her drift off, holding Ava close to her and never wanting to let go.
જ⁀➴ོ. ᯓ ✈︎
The plan is for Ava to attend four universities in the course of a week: Columbia University in New York to start on Monday, Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, on Wednesday, Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, on Friday, and the University of California in Santa Barbara, California, on Sunday. Beatrice is not sure how feasible that is due to the time constraints for travel and their planned modes of transportation. At the moment, she knows that Ava is happy to do what is possible for the group and will let any of the university's football coaching staff members she plans to visit know if things change from there.
Ava created a good travel plan, but it might be too ambitious, given that they really do not know what they are walking into, traveling to an unfamiliar country, not knowing the factors that could delay them, and all that. Beatrice wants to ensure that, as well as how this trip could go, Ava does not get too disappointed if she is unable to do everything that was planned.
She rarely sees Ava get disappointed in things like that, though. So, she is not as worried about it, but she knows how much Ava wants this—to experience America as much as she can within the week or so they have for break.
As soon as the car pulls up along the curb, Beatrice smiles, thanking her family driver before getting out. Ava hops out after her, anxiously saying, “Come on, Bea, hurry!” Ava laughs. “I don’t want to miss our flight.”
Beatrice makes her way to the back of the car, opening the boot to begin taking out the suitcases, when she feels a new vibration coming from her phone.
“Do not worry. We will not miss it. I assure you we are early and on time,” Beatrice reassures her, knowing that response did not quell Ava’s excitement. She pulls her phone from her pocket to check in on the status of the rest of their group. From what she can see in her most recent messages, everyone is there with the exception of Yasmine and Dora, which wasn’t so surprising.
Dora most likely pulled Yasmine off for one last-minute task that she just remembered on the way. By Beatrice’s best guesses, as Dora’s long-time roommate, Yasmine had already accounted for the slight detour, and they were already close to the airport by now.
Ava’s smile never falters while she takes her suitcase after Beatrice hands it to her. With a slight thank you, she is quick to lift up the handle and begin to pull it toward the sliding doors.
Beatrice takes her suitcase out of the car, and she shouts up front to her family’s driver that she is all set before closing the boot.
Beatrice walks into the airport, finding Ava just inside, waiting for her.
“Alright, where to now?” Ava asks.
“Bag check-ins, then to a quick, hopefully quick walk through security, and then we can meet Lilith, Mary, and Camila at the boarding gate waiting area,” Beatrice explains.
Ava groans. “Why can’t we just get on the plane?”
Beatrice chuckles, “Unfortunately, it does not work like that. We have to follow the rules.”
Ava smiles through her frustration, “Fine, but hopefully, it doesn’t take too long. I just want to leave already.”
Beatrice laughs at her impatience. “If we go now, it’ll start the process, and the sooner we’ll be on our flight,” she says.
“Then let’s go!” Ava exclaims, charging forward.
Beatrice follows closely behind her as they make their way to the baggage check-in area. After waiting in line for a couple of minutes, they are able to proceed to the security checkpoint. Ava is not very fond of the wait time; honestly, she cannot blame her since no one really is. After a thorough check of their belongings in their small carry-on bags, they are able to get through.
Beatrice double-checks their tickets for the gate number, and then they begin to walk through the terminal. Ava’s eyes light up seeing all of the different shops and small restaurants on the way.
They make a few stops, admiring small trinkets in the touristy stops, before deciding to go to the boarding gate area.
When they arrive, Camila quickly stands up and greets them, walking over to give them both a quick hug. “Hey!”
“Cam!” Ava squeals, embracing her back.
Camila then moves to hug Beatrice, and Beatrice says, “Hello, Camila.”
Camila pulls away. “Are you guys ready to go to New York?”
“I’m so excited!” Ava smiles, “A little nervous to go to Columbia University first and meet the coaching staff, but I feel good about it. Like I’ve trained my whole life for this.”
“Don’t worry, kid, you’ll be fine,” Mary reassures her from her seat.
“Yeah, they’ll love you just as much as our team loves you,” Camila tells her. “Right, Lilith?”
Camila looks back, giving her girlfriend a pensive look. When she does not respond immediately, Lilith furrows her brow. Lilith huffs, looking at Ava. “Yes, she’s right.”
“Aw, Lilith, I knew you loved me,” Ava giggles, running over to give Lilith a half hug while she pats her hand away.
“Silva, stop!” Lilith contests, pushing her away and sinking further into the seat with a frown. Mary laughs, and Lilith glares at her, “Do not start now, Mary.”
“I’m sorry, sorry,” Mary cannot contain her laughter as she responds.
It is not long after that, they see Dora and Yasmine approach through the crowd of people walking by. Dora jogs over, smiling as she says, “Yo! What’s up, guys? Are we ready for this trip!?”
“Yes, we are!” Camila chuckles before Yasmine joins the group. “Hi Yas!”
“Hello all,” Yasmine smiles. “Sorry, we’re a little late. Dora forgot her bag of toiletries and noticed it while we were down the road.”
“Hey! I don’t know what toiletries are, but I need toothpaste, shampoo, and body wash! I do not want to be the one person who stinks on this trip.” Dora explains.
“Toiletries are…you know what, never mind,” Lilith starts to contest, but soon gives up. “Thankfully, you both arrived on time, regardless. Perhaps, Camila, we should go find something for everyone to eat before we get on the flight.”
“And coffee, coffee would be nice to have right now,” Camila adds.
“We can get coffee too,” Lilith assures her.
“Wow, and to think you act like you do not care about us, Villaumbrosia,” Mary jokes.
“Watch it,” Lilith warns her before going around the group and asking for everyone’s orders. The rest of the group waits for them to return. After Camila and Lilith return with their breakfast, they eat, relax, and talk before the plane arrives.
Beatrice notices that Ava can barely stay still in her seat throughout it all, which makes her smile even harder. It may seem awkward how much she finds comfort in seeing Ava this happy, but she does not care.
Ava’s dream could come true soon, and even if that means she will not be able to see her every day, she is happy she could help her along the way.
🛫- - - - >📍🗽🚕 🏙️
Beatrice can see how excited Ava is just by her body language. Her eyes never left the window as trees passed by, the plane starting the process of taking off, but she was holding Beatrice’s hand to steady herself. Beatrice relishes that, feeling her cheeks warm just at the sight.
Beatrice shifts her attention, and her eyes are wide. She sees Lilith make eye contact with her through the space in between the seats in front. Lilith groans in disgust as she turns her attention to Camila.
Beatrice rolls her eyes, shifting her attention back to Ava, “Are you ready for take-off?”
“Yes, but I’m actually a little nervous,” Ava admits, trying her best to hold confidence in her tone. “First flight jitters and all.”
Beatrice grins, keeping her grip on Ava’s hand, “Just calm down, try to relax, and do not look out the window if it helps.”
Ava exhales, trying to close her eyes, but after a while, Beatrice notices that she is calmer. She opens her eyes, looking out the window as the plane begins its motion on the runway. Looking back at Beatrice, she sees the sparkle in her eyes, “This is not so bad, actually.”
“It is not,” Beatrice agrees, watching as Ava settles into her seat, “By the end of this trip, you’ll be an expert on flying.”
Ava laughs at her joke, turning her head to look out the window again. She’s amazed by the scene underneath them, how small the city looks from a bird's eye view. Beatrice smiles until she sees that Ava is still holding her hand. She blushes, trying to keep herself calm.
Perhaps sometime during this trip is the right time to tell Ava her secret, the only one she doesn’t know about her.
If everything goes wrong, though, that is what worries her. Beatrice doesn’t want to lose her best friend.