She watched Ariana run into the throng that was her teammates. They’d be celebrating all night.
“This was amazing,” Emily said.
Nicole laughed as they made their way out of the arena. “Sports are fun after all, huh.”
“Tonight was.”
They got to Stuart’s and the party had started. He’d saved them a place at the bar and had beers waiting on them.
“What a game!” Stuart said. “Your girl was amazing!”
“Yeah she was!” Nicole grinned. “Did you see her block that last shot?”
“I know!” He came around the bar and hugged her.
Nicole took a long drink of her beer and listened as everyone recalled their favorite parts of the game. She’d been on winning teams in her life and knew the thrill of victory, but this was somehow sweeter because her Ariana had won. Nicole and Shealyn had called several finals in their career and she could remember being especially happy for her friends who were on the winning team. Tonight topped them all.
She closed her eyes and took a moment to feel the love that was pounding in her heart. Her lips tingled as she remembered those victory kisses with Ariana.
“Oh hey,” Stuart said. “They caught your kiss on camera.”
Nicole widened her eyes. “No way!”
Stuart nodded. “I think everyone knows about your special project now.”
Nicole chuckled and shrugged. She looked over at Kate. “Good thing I already signed that new contract.”
Kate laughed and clinked her glass to Nicole’s. “Well played.”
Stuart refilled their beers as they watched and listened to the post-game show while waiting for Ariana and the team to get there.
Nicole felt someone slide on the barstool next to her and glanced over to see Ariana’s smiling face.
“Hey, whatcha doing?” Ariana said playfully.
“Waiting on my girl,” Nicole replied, playing along.
“Oh yeah? Maybe I could keep you company while you wait?”
“Mmm, nope. She’s hotter than anyone, sweeter than everything, and I love her more than anything.”
Ariana laughed, leaned over, and kissed her. “Your girl is very lucky.”
“She knows it.” Nicole turned to face her and took her hand. “Hey, I want to ask you a question.”
Ariana’s brows crept up her forehead.
“Will you move in with me?”
Ariana gasped.
“What!” Stuart exclaimed. “I thought it was going to bethebig question. What a letdown.”
“Maybe I can help you, Stuart,” Ariana said, reaching into her pocket.
Nicole widened her eyes as Ariana reached for her hand.
“When I landed in your lap and your eyes met mine I fell in love right then. Our hearts connected and wouldn’t let go.” Ariana smiled and tilted her head. “It took our heads a little longer to come around. In that time I found the person my heart had been looking for and waiting for. We fought it, then had to hide it, but our love is magical and everlasting. I don’t want to wait. I don’t want to hide. I want to be with you now and forever. To answer your question. Yes, I’ll move in with you. But NicoleNeal, let’s listen to our hearts.” Ariana bent down on one knee. “Will you marry me?”
