At last, they reached a grand door, a vision of carved artistry, its surface adorned with intricate floral motifs and inlaid gemstones that caught the light like tiny stars. Fiona paused, her hand brushing against the doorframe, her gaze sweeping over her daughters with quiet pride before Nana pushed it open.
The scene beyond was nothing short of breathtaking. The air shifted as though they'd stepped into another world, one where time slowed and the mundane dissolved into magic. The pool area was a masterpiece, alive with a kaleidoscope of color and sound. Soft hues of purple and blue lighting cascaded across the water, shimmering like an aurora trapped in liquid form. Ripples broke the surface in mesmerizing patterns, the play of light and shadow creating an almost hypnotic dance.
Lexi's breath caught as her eyes roamed the space. A sleek white staircase descended gracefully into the pool, the embedded lights beneath each step glowing faintly like a path to some ethereal realm. The pool itself was layered, an elevated section flowing gently into the main expanse, the transition seamless and elegant. Around the edges, lush greenery framed the scene, their vibrant leaves a stark but harmonious contrast to the minimalist architecture. The scent of jasmine lingered in the air, subtle yet intoxicating, weaving itself into the atmosphere.
"It's like stepping into a painting," Lexi murmured, more to herself than anyone else. She moved closer, her fingers brushing against the cool marble railing as her gaze swept over the space. Every detail felt intentional, as though the room was designed not just to be seen but to be felt.
Fiona, ever composed, was already speaking with a staff member, her voice smooth and engaging as she inquired about the pool's amenities. Her posture was perfect, her tone authoritative yet warm, a woman who effortlessly commanded respect.
Lexi and Mia, however, found their attention caught by something entirely different. A soft giggle floated through the air, light and carefree, tugging their gazes toward the shimmering center of the pool. There, a couple splashed in a playful dance, their laughter rising above the gentle murmur of the other guests. The man, tall and broad-shouldered, effortlessly lifted his partner into his arms, his easy grin contagious as he spun her in the water. Her laughter rang out, bright and melodious, a moment of unfiltered joy that seemed to ripple across the surface, echoing into the evening.
"Looks like they're stealing the spotlight," Mia remarked, leaning casually against the railing. Her style of hair framed her face in soft, messy layers, giving her a cool edge that contrasted with the warmth in her faint smile. She tilted her head, studying the couple with playful curiosity. "Think we can outdo them, Lex?"
Lexi smirked, a glint of mischief sparking in her eyes. "Oh, absolutely. We just need the right partner in crime."
The scene shifted as the man in the pool, brimming with enthusiasm, flicked water toward his companion. "Woah, this pool is awesome!" he exclaimed, his voice bright and buoyant as his splash sent glimmering droplets into the air.
"Sammy, stop it!" the girl protested, though her laughter betrayed her delight. Before she could retreat, Sammy closed the distance with a teasing grin, sweeping her up with ease.
Her giggles turned to a startled squeal as he spun her around, the movement sending ripples of water outward like a celebration. "Anything for my Lola," he teased, his tone as warm and lighthearted as the evening breeze, earning another burst of laughter from her.
From the edge of the pool, Lexi and Mia watched the playful exchange, their expressions softening. They didn't speak for a moment, letting the mood settle over them like the golden light of the setting sun. Then their eyes met, amusement flickering between them like a shared secret before they both broke into quiet giggles.
"Young love," Mia murmured with exaggerated solemnity, her smirk betraying her teasing tone. "It's so... over the top."
Lexi raised an eyebrow. "Like you're not one to talk," she shot back, her voice low and sharp, though her grin softened the jab. Mia nudged her gently in mock protest, their banter blending seamlessly into the lively energy of the scene.
The moment could stretch too long, Fiona's commanding voice broke through. She approached with an air of effortless authority, her steps confident as she gestured for them to follow her. "Shall we?"
They walked, Mia sidled up to Lexi, her sharp eyes glinting with playful mischief. "Lexi," she began, her tone as casual as it was calculated, "can you believe this swimming pool is bigger than our school field?"
Lexi raised a brow, her lips curving into a faint smirk. "Wow, Mia," she deadpanned. "I never would've guessed thank you so much for enlightening me."
Mia stopped in her tracks, planting her hands on her hips with mock indignation. "Well, excuse me, Your Majesty," she huffed, her voice dripping with exaggerated drama. "You sound so bored, you know? And honestly, you look at it too. Are you really not having fun?"
Lexi tilted her head, her expression unreadable for a moment, before shrugging. "It's fine," she said, her voice calm but nonchalant.
Mia's eyes narrowed. "'Fine' isn't good enough," she retorted, crossing her arms. "You're supposed to be radiating joy, Lex. That's the vibe of the day. Come on, give me something."
Before Lexi could respond, Fiona's soft, measured voice cut through the exchange. "Girls?" She turned to face them, her gaze curious but knowing, the kind that always seemed to see more than it let on.
Mia straightened instantly, her casual demeanor vanishing. "Nothing, Aunt Fiona," she said quickly, shooting Lexi a pointed look.
But Fiona wasn't convinced. Her sharp, discerning eyes flickered between the two of them, lingering on Lexi. "It doesn't sound like nothing," she said lightly, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Care to share?"
Lexi's jaw tightened as Mia's exaggerated tone echoed in her ears. "It's Lexi, Aunt Fiona," Mia began, her voice dripping with mock exasperation. "She's acting like some tedious stranger, and honestly, I have no idea why."
Fiona arched a brow, turning her full attention to Lexi. Her lips twitched as if suppressing a smile, but her sharp eyes betrayed her amusement. "Well, Lexi," Fiona said after a pause, her tone light and deliberate, "if you're not having fun, we'll just have to fix that. This place is far too magical for anyone to stay bored."
Lexi crossed her arms, her gaze dropping as she let out a faint, dry chuckle. "Hahaha, fine. You caught me. I'm not having fun," she admitted, her voice quiet but edged with frustration.