Page 118 of Racking Up Penalties
I find myself leaning into the moment, savoring the joy that comes from being around people you love.
“Can you believe we made all this?” Emma muses, gesturing to the remnants of our culinary efforts. There’s pride in her voice, a reflection of the happiness radiating from her heart.
“Believe it and revel in it,” I say.
“Here’s to many more nights like this one,” Ethan proposes, raising his glass once more.
“To friendship, to love, and to delicious food,” I add, feeling the weight of the words and the promise they carry.
“Cheers!” we all say again, a chorus of voices that feels like home.
Stepping out of the warm glow of the restaurant into the brisk night, a shiver runs up my spine from the cold.
“Who’s up for ice cream?” Tristan asks, his breath fogging in the chill air, blue eyes twinkling with a mix of mischief and anticipation.
“Seriously? It’s freezing,” Emma giggles, but there’s no real protest in her voice. She snuggles closer to Alec, seeking his warmth.
“Exactly! It’s the perfect time for ice cream,” Ethan chimes in, clapping his hands together for emphasis. His enthusiasm is contagious, and despite the cool weather, we all start walking down the street, our steps in sync, bound for the local ice cream parlor.
Liam pulls me into his side and shares his warmth with me in a cozy move.
We pile into the shop, its jingle bell above the door announcing our arrival. The cold from outside battles with the sweetly scented air inside, filled with the aroma of waffle cones and sugary delights. I can’t help but laugh as we all huddle around the glass display.
“Double chocolate for me,” I declare, already salivating at the thought of the rich, creamy dessert.
“Always so decisive,” Tristan teases, ruffling my hair before ordering something with enough toppings to feed a small army.
As we find seats, huddled together at a large table, the laughter and conversation pick up right where they left off. JD shares a story about a past winter escapade that has us all laughing until our sides ache, and Luka’s eyes shine with pride as he recounts a game-winning goal.
“Hey, let’s do this again sometime soon,” Luka suggests between spoonfuls of strawberry cheesecake ice cream.
“Definitely. Maybe something less culinary next time?” Ethan quips, still sheepish from his kitchen struggles earlier.
“Whatever it is, count us in,” Alec adds, wrapping an arm around Emma, who nods in agreement.
“We could go bowling, or maybe a game night at one of our places?” I suggest, the idea of more nights like this sending a wave of excitement through me.
“Sounds perfect,” Tristan says, and the others murmur their assents.
“Tonight was amazing, thanks to you guys,” I say, reaching across the table to squeeze Tristan’s hand, then Ethan’s, and finally Liam’s. Their smiles tell me they feel the same way.
“I’m glad you found yourself three guys to love you,” Emma says, her voice soft but earnest.
“Wouldn’t want it any other way,” I reply, catching her eye and sharing a silent moment of understanding. She’s more than my best friend; she’s my anchor in the wild sea of romance and uncertainty that surrounds us and she inspired me to make this relationship happen.
We finish our ice cream, reluctant to end the evening but knowing it’s time. As we step back out onto the sidewalk, hugs are exchanged, each one a reassurance of the bonds we’ve formed. Laughter echoes in the chilly night as we say our goodbyes.
“ See you back at our place Emma ,” I call out as we part ways, my voice carrying the weight of the love I have for these people.
“Absolutely. Goodnight, Tessa,” Emma says back.
As I walk back home, arm in arm with my boys, I can’t help but reflect on how lucky I am to have these guys and my best friend in my life.
Chapter 51
The key turns in the lock and the familiar creak of Liam and Ethan’s house door feels like a welcome home to a haven of warmth. I step inside, leaning back into the circle of Liam’s arms as he nudges the door closed with his foot. Ethan flicks on the lights, casting a soft glow that wraps around us like a comforting blanket. Tristan locks the door behind us.
“Tonight was perfect,” I sigh, my heart still fluttering from the evening’s mix of culinary chaos and companionship. The memory of Emma’s laughter mingles with the savory scent of garlic that seems to have followed us home.
