Page 30 of Declan
When he caught her gaze, he gave her a playful wink, prompting her to laugh while she continued to twirl and sway in rhythm with the music. The room was alive with the loudness of vibrant music and infectious laughter. The two men maintained their focus on the women, mesmerized by their spirited movements. As the song ended, the women erupted in cheers, exchanging triumphant high-fives, their faces flushed with joy and exhilaration.
Elise’s heart warmed as she watched Tess dash toward Sam, leaping into his waiting arms with unrestrained joy. Sam enveloped her in a tight embrace, their lips meeting in a tender kiss that spoke volumes of their love. Elise noticed Declan’s gaze fixed on her. He pushed away from the doorframe, makinghis way toward her. His unexpected kiss took her by surprise, igniting a spark of delight that spread across her face, leaving an undeniable smile in its wake.
“I have to say, that was enjoyable,” he said with a grin, his eyes filled with amusement.
“It certainly looked like you enjoyed watching it,” she teased.
He leaned down, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, “I enjoyed watchingyou.” His gaze swept across the lively room. “What a group.”
“I absolutely adore this bunch. We always have so much fun together,” she replied, her voice filled with genuine affection.
“Hi, Declan,” Olivia Stone greeted warmly as she approached them, her smile bright and welcoming.
“Hey, Liv. How are you and Wyatt doing?” Declan inquired, his tone friendly and sincere.
“Just wonderful,” Olivia replied, her face glowing with contentment. “It was great seeing you. I really need to head home and take a shower.” She turned to Elise with a warm smile. “I’ll see you next week.”
“Okay, Liv. Have a fantastic weekend,” Elise responded, waving as Olivia departed with her sisters-in-law, Becca and Emma Stone.
As each woman exited, they bid farewell to her, Declan, Tess, and Sam with cheerful waves and warm smiles. Elise felt a wave of appreciation for the close-knit community of Clifton, the camaraderie and connection wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. While she held a deep-seated love for the vibrant hustle of New York, this tightly woven town was where her heart truly belonged, especially with Declan by her side.
“Can I come by tonight?” Declan inquired.
“Of course. I can fix dinner if you’d like,” Elise replied.
“Can you cook?” he asked, raising an eyebrow with playful skepticism.
“I can,” she assured him with a confident grin. “I make a mean lasagna.”
Declan groaned appreciatively. “I love lasagna. What time?”
“Six?” she suggested.
“Sounds perfect, darlin’. I’ll see you then. I have to get back to work.” He leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss on her lips. “I’ll see you later.”
“Can’t wait,” she responded, a smile spreading across her face as he touched the brim of his hat and strode out, trailing behind Sam.
“I’ll see you next week, Elise. I need to head home and grab a shower. Great class today,” Tess remarked, making her way over to where her jacket hung on a polished wooden peg.
“See you then, Tess. Have a good weekend,” Elise replied.
“Oh, I will. Sam’s parents have the kids,” Tess said with a wink, prompting a burst of laughter from Elise. With a playful wave, Tess turned and left, her footsteps echoing softly down the hallway.
****
As Declan and Sam strolled back toward the Sheriff’s Department, the cool air nipping at their skin, Declan couldn’t suppress the grin that spread across his face as thoughts of Elise danced in his mind.
“So, when did you and Elise start seeing each other?” Sam asked, his eyes glinting with curiosity under the brim of his hat.
“Not long, but I’m hoping it will continue,” Declan replied, his voice tinged with a mix of hope and excitement. Suddenly, he halted mid-step, realizing Sam was no longer by his side. He turned to see Sam standing a few paces behind, a bemused expression on his face. “What’s wrong?”
Sam shook his head with a wry smile and resumed walking, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot punctuating his words.“You. I have never heard you say something like that about seeing a woman.”
Declan chuckled. “I’m surprised myself.”
“She seems like a good person. Very beautiful,” Sam noted, a teasing grin spreading across his face. “Not as beautiful as my wife, but close.”
Declan laughed heartily, the warmth of his amusement cutting through the chill. “I think Elise is beautiful too.”
