jayfer the end game

pool

Author pov
The sun shone brightly over the resort, casting glittering reflections across the large swimming pool. Students from multiple sections were scattered everywhere, but Section E had immediately claimed their corner of the pool as “home base.” The boys had quickly changed into swimsuits, some trying to act casual, others flaunting playful competitiveness, while Jayjay stepped out in a modest navy-blue one-piece. It hugged her in all the right ways without being flashy, her hair tied loosely into a braid that spilled over one shoulder, and her minimal waterproof makeup accentuated her naturally sharp features.

Arise leaned against the pool railing, the calm but vigilant guardian as always. He observed every movement around Jayjay, his eyes scanning for potential hazards while maintaining a relaxed demeanor. Today, however, he was more amused than critical. “Careful, Jay,” he called as she took her first cautious steps into the shallow end. “No diving like an idiot.”

“I’m not an idiot, Ari,” Jayjay shot back, smirking. “I know how to swim. I survived your lectures for years.”

Ci-N squealed behind her, attempting a dramatic dive and splashing water all over the two. “I’m the best swimmer here! Watch me!”

Arise shook his head, arms crossed. “You’re fourteen, Ci-N. Act your age for once in your life.”

Kiefer, lounging casually on a sunbed nearby, observed quietly. His gaze followed Jayjay like she was the only person in the resort. The sunlight danced across her hair and shoulders, and he caught himself smiling despite himself. There was something breathtaking about the way she moved naturally, carefree and radiant, even in a crowd.

“You look good, you know,” Kiefer said casually, leaning back, trying to appear nonchalant.

Jayjay glanced over, smirking. “Thanks. You’re not bad either… in trunks.”

Arise stiffened, a protective edge surfacing. “Keep your hands to yourself, Watson,” he called, his tone teasing but firm.

Kiefer smirked, unfazed. “Or what? You’ll swim over and stop me?”

Arise chuckled softly. “Maybe,” he replied, his eyes still glued to Jayjay.

---

The Section E boys were slowly gathering, each finding a spot in or around the pool. Yuri and Eman immediately challenged each other to a playful swim race, while Edrix sat at the edge, legs in the water, quietly tracking everyone with his tablet. Denzel floated lazily with a pool noodle, Kit and Mayo held hands, whispering their usual jokes, Calix and John Felix argued over diving strategies, Rory tried to sneak pictures, and Blaster hovered nearby with his cat-shaped float, pouting that no real cats were allowed.

Jayjay rolled her eyes at the chaos, nudging Ci-N. “How do you survive with all this craziness?”

“It’s a skill! Dodge, block, aim!” Ci-N shouted proudly. “I’m practically a water ninja!”

Arise shook his head with a small smile. “You two are going to give me gray hairs.”

Kiefer leaned back on the sunbed, observing Arise’s relaxed side emerge. “You’ve changed, Ari,” he murmured. “Seeing you laugh… it’s nice.”

Arise shrugged. “She brings out a better side. Don’t tell her I said that.”

Kiefer’s lips curved. “Your secret’s safe.”

---

The boys and girls quickly organized a water volleyball game, with Jayjay reluctantly agreeing to play. She stood in the shallow end, arms crossed, pretending to act serious while secretly grinning. Ci-N tried to dive dramatically, slipping in the water and sending Jayjay into a fit of laughter.