Later, I head home to babysit Lily. Declan greets me at the door with a grin. “Got a gift for you.”
I raise an eyebrow. “Oh? What is it?”
He leads me to his bedroom and hands me a jersey with his number on it. The Chicago Icebreakers’ purple and black jersey feels soft in my hands.
“You better be wearing my number when you come to the game,” he says, pulling me into a quick kiss.
I nod happily, already planning my outfit. “Of course, Declan.”
As I put the jersey on, he smiles, giving me a look that makes my heart race. “See you at the game, Millie.”
***
We head to the game, Lily holding my hand as we make our way to our seats. The stadium is packed and the energy is electric. I spot Declan on the ice and my heart does a little flip. I’m wearing his number and it feels like a badge of honor.
The game is intense, the Icebreakers and Vipers battling it out with ferocity. Every time Declan gets the puck, I hold my breath. Lily cheers loudly, her enthusiasm contagious.
“Go, Declan!” I shout, feeling the adrenaline rush through me.
By the end of the game, the Icebreakers have secured a hard-fought victory. Declan looks up at the stands, his eyes findingmine. He gives me a quick nod and a smile that makes my knees weak.
After the game, we head to the locker room area to wait for him. Lily chatters excitedly, recounting every play. Declan comes out, still in his gear and scoops Lily up into a big hug.
“You were amazing!” she squeals.
He grins, setting her down and turning to me. “And you, you look good in my number.”
I blush. “Thanks, Declan. You were incredible out there.”
“Ready to get out of here?” he asks.
“Where’s Finn?” I ask him.
“He got in trouble for being late. He’s cleaning up the stadium as punishment,” Declan says. “But he’ll meet us at home. Have you guys eaten?”
“Yes, Daddy!” Lily shouts. “So many hot dogs.”
“In that case, let’s get you home!” he says.
We head back home and Lily goes to bed quickly, exhausted from the excitement. Declan pulls me aside, his eyes serious.
“I meant what I said about the jersey. It means a lot to me that you wore it.”
I smile, feeling my heart swell. “I’ll always support you, Declan.”
He leans in, kissing me softly. “You’re amazing, Millie.”
I wrap my arms around him, feeling safe and happy. “So are you.”
The doorbell rings and we break apart as Chase and Finn come in, pizza boxes in hand.
“Ready for some fun?” Chase asks with a grin.
I laugh, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. “Always.”
We head to the living room, settling in with the pizza and drinks. The night is young and the possibilities feel endless. As we eat and chat, the anticipation builds.
Finn grumbles, “God, the stands were disgusting today.”