I chuckle, nodding in understanding. “So, it’s not about me being any less, just about different experiences.”

“Exactly,” she says, looking relieved that I get it. “You’re like the pasta. Reliable and comforting. But sometimes, I want the pizza or the fries.”

I smile, reaching out to touch her cheek. “I get that. I’m not looking to be the only thing you have. I just want to be a part of it. A significant part.”

She meets my gaze, her eyes softening. “You already are.”

My heart does a weird flip at her words. I lean in, brushing my lips against hers in a gentle kiss. It starts slow, but quickly builds up. I deepen the kiss, pulling her closer, feeling her warmth against me. She responds eagerly, her lips parting to meet mine with a fervor that matches my own.

When we finally pull apart, our breaths mingling in the cool night air, I can see the connection in her eyes. “What do you think about us all meeting? Maybe talking things out?”

She looks thoughtful, a hint of a smile on her lips. “You mean like a group therapy session with you, me, Declan, and Finn?”

I laugh softly, nodding. “Something like that. Just to make sure everyone’s on the same page. It might help clear the air.”

She bites her lip, considering it. “I think it could be good. It might help us all figure things out.”

I reach for her hand, squeezing it gently. “I’m willing to try if you are. I want us to be honest and open about everything.”

She smiles, a genuine, relieved smile. “I’d like that.”

I pull her close, wrapping my arms around her. “Me too.”

We stay like that for a moment, just holding each other, the world around us fading away. My mind is racing, but in a good way. I’m feeling more connected to her than I have in a long time.

Millie leans up to kiss me again and I’m lost in the moment, savoring the warmth and closeness. It’s not just about the physical connection, though that’s definitely a big part of it. It’s about the emotional bond, the way we’re starting to understand each other on a deeper level.

When we finally pull apart, her eyes are shining with something I can’t quite place. “I’m glad we had this talk,” she says softly.

“Me too,” I reply, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “I feel like we’re getting somewhere.”

“Yeah,” she agrees, looking up at me with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. “We are.”

I smile at her, feeling a sense of optimism. “Let’s take it one step at a time. We’ll figure this out together.”

She nods, giving me a small, appreciative smile. “Sounds good.”

As we head back to the bike, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. I want to make this work, whatever it takes. And if that meanstalking things out with Declan and Finn, then I’m ready to face that challenge.

We ride back to the city, the night air cool against our faces. My mind is already working on plans, thinking about how to bring everyone together and make sure we’re all on the same page.

When we finally pull up to her place, I help her off the bike, feeling excitement and nervousness about the future. “I’ll see you tomorrow?” I ask.

“You’re not coming back?”

“I have three back-to-back procedures, honey.I won’t be done until tomorrow, but you know I will miss you the entire time.”

“I will miss you too.”

“You sure about that Millie?”

“Definitely,” she says with a smile. “Thanks for tonight.”

“Anytime,” I reply, leaning in to give her one last kiss. “Goodnight, Millie.”

“Goodnight, Chase,” she says, her voice soft and filled with promise.

***