The locker room’s buzzing with excitement as the team wraps up, but my mind’s already racing towards the after-party. I’m eager to see Millie. After a quick clean-up, I head toward the VIP section where I’m told Millie and Lily are waiting.

As I approach the VIP area, the noise from the crowd fades into a more subdued buzz. The room is packed but not overly crowded, with the celebratory energy still high.

I spot Millie and Lily immediately. Millie’s got a radiant smile on her face and Lily’s bouncing with excitement. It’s like the whole crowd is buzzing with energy and it’s infectious.

“Hey, where’s Chase?” I ask, looking around.

Millie points toward the bar with a grin. “He’s getting us drinks. He’ll be back soon.”

I nod, but before I can reach them, Lily’s practically sprinting toward Declan.

“Dad!” she yells, practically tackling Declan in a hug.

Declan laughs, catching her effortlessly and spinning her around. “Hey, Lil! You look amazing tonight.” She’s got a huge smile plastered on her face. I catch Declan’s eye and he’s looking at her with such warmth. It’s heartwarming to see Declan and Lily so happy.

I turn back to Millie, who’s watching with a grin. In a moment of pure celebration, I lift her off the ground and spin her around. The excitement of the game, the win and everything between us makes me want to hold on to this moment forever.

I quickly kiss her, the touch of our lips just a fleeting but fiery connection before we pull apart, breathless and grinning. “Hey baby.”

“Hey!” she whispers back. “Congratulations on your win.”

“I’m convinced your blowjobs might actually have magic in them. I’m sorry, but I will need one before every game.”

She laughs heartily. “That can be arranged.”

I glance back at Lily and Declan. Lily’s hugging Declan tightly, her face buried in his shoulder.

“Chase should be back soon,” Millie says, slipping her hand into mine. “He was really looking forward to celebrating with you.”

“Yeah, I know,” I reply. “Can’t wait to catch up with him.”

Just then, Chase strides into the VIP area, a tray of drinks in hand. His eyes light up when he sees us and he makes his way over with a big smile.

“Got the drinks!” Chase announces, setting the tray down on a nearby table. He takes in the scene, his gaze settling on Millie and me. “Looks like you guys had a hell of a game.”

“Hell yeah,” I agree, clinking glasses with him. “And we’ll have a hell of a celebration!”

Chase raises his glass, a grin on his face. “To a great game and even better company.”

We all toast, the clinking of glasses adding to the festive atmosphere.

“How about we get some dinner?” Declan asks.

“Pizza?” Chase says.

“Pizza!” Lily yells.

“Then ice cream,” I contribute.

“I know just the perfect spot for ice cream. Pablo’s?” Declan asks Finn who just looks at me and smiles. “It has been quite some time since I was there. Pablo’s it is.”

“I am surprised you said yes. You never agree to go there,” Declan replies.

I can bet why. I refuse to feel bad. We’re back together again and Finn can’t be sad about his memories of taking me to the ice cream parlor ever again.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chase