“Here, take my jacket,” Killian says gently, draping it over my shoulders to cover the stain. “Don’t let her ruin your night. She’s not worth it.”
Jayden grins, lightening the mood with his infectious charm. “Yeah, let’s show these drama queens how we really enjoy ourselves!”
I smile back, the guys’ support washing away my anger. We won’t let petty drama distract us from having an amazing time together.
“Thanks, I needed that reminder,” I say.
Noah loops his arm through mine. “Come on, let’s head to the VIP section. Drinks are on me.”
I let him guide me away, the others trailing behind. In the more exclusive area, the atmosphere is elevated but cozy.
We claim a plush booth and the guys insist I relax while they grab the first round.
When they return, Noah passes me my favorite cocktail—a Naked and Famous. It’s a gorgeous orange color, and a potent mix of smoky mezcal, bitter aperol, herbaceous chartreuse and lime. I don’t drink often because… well, rugby… but when I do, this is my drink of choice. “To our unshakeable team,” he toasts.
“Sláinte!” the others chorus. Everyone gets a little more Irish when they’re drinking, I reckon.
The drinks and lively company lift my spirits. We chat and joke easily, the earlier confrontation already fading.
On the dance floor, Noah pulls me close. Our bodies sway in sync as the music pulses through us. Under the swirling lights, I meet his intense gaze. In this moment, I’ve never felt more wanted or more protected.
After a few songs, Jayden cuts in, twirling me theatrically. “No hogging our star player!” he winks, the other guys oblivious to what transpired earlier between us.
I laugh, intoxicated by the attention. With these guys, I finally feel seen—not just for my athletic skills, but for me. As the night winds down, their fierce loyalty and support fill me with joy.
This is exactly where I’m meant to be.
The remainder of the evening flies by in a blur of dancing, drinking, and easy camaraderie. Before I know it, the lights are coming up and last call is announced.
“I guess that’s our cue,” Noah says, helping me to my feet. The effects of one too many cocktails make me unsteady, and he grips my waist to support me. But I’m not worried about loosened inhibitions—with these guys, it’s like having three gigantic bodyguards ready to fend off anyone unsavory.
“Let’s roll out, team,” Jayden calls.
We gather our things and head for the exit. The cold night air hits my flushed cheeks. Noah keeps his arm around me as we walk to the car.
“That was epic,” Killian grins. “We definitely owned that club tonight.”
“All thanks to our secret weapon,” Jayden winks at me.
I smile, warmed by their praise. “I should be thanking you guys. For having my back in there.”
“Anytime,” Noah reassures me. “We look out for our own.”
Their words kindle a glow in my chest. With these fierce, loyal men by my side, I feel I can handle anything thrown my way.
We pile into the car, trading laughs and stories from the crazy night. The earlier drama is long forgotten, erased by the bonds we’ve strengthened.
As I glance at each of them, my heart swells with gratitude and maybe something more. This isn’t just the alcohol talking.
Right now, I’m more certain than ever that this is where I belong.
Chapter 33
Dylan
Theguyscrowdintothe tiny entryway of our apartment, shucking off their coats and boots.
“Dylan, you’re soaked through,” Killian says, reaching for the hem of my dress. “Why didn’t you say something? I didn’t realize she emptied the whole bloody glass all over you!”