the fire between us

chapter 14

After the game, the energy is still buzzing as we make our way out of the stadium, chatting excitedly about the match. The night air is cool and refreshing, a perfect contrast to the intensity of the game. The victory has everyone in high spirits, and there's talk of continuing the celebration somewhere fun.

"Alright, where to next?" Marcus asks, his arm draped around Nora's shoulders as we walk.

"How about we hit up that restaurant near the river? They have great food, and it's a perfect spot to unwind," Martinus suggests, his hand brushing lightly against mine as we walk side by side.

"Sounds perfect," I agree, feeling a thrill of anticipation not just for the celebration, but for what might come next between Martinus and me. His earlier promise of a date lingers in my mind, adding a layer of excitement to the evening.

The restaurant is lively when we arrive, filled with groups of people celebrating the win. The lights are dimmed just enough to create a cozy atmosphere, with a warm glow coming from the candles on each table. The hum of conversation and laughter blends with the soft music playing in the background, creating a perfect ambiance for our celebration.

We find a large table near the window, with a view of the river that reflects the city lights in shimmering patterns. As we settle in, Marcus and Nora immediately start recounting their favorite moments of the game, their excitement contagious.

"Martinus, you were on fire today," Marcus says, raising his glass in a toast. "That winning goal was legendary."

"Thanks, man," Martinus replies, clinking his glass against Marcus's. He turns to me with a smile that sends a flutter through my heart. "But I had a little extra motivation today."

I blush, knowing he's referring to our earlier conversation, and smile back. "Well, whatever it was, it definitely worked."

As the night progresses, the food is served, and the conversation flows effortlessly. We laugh, joke, and reminisce about past games and experiences. It's one of those nights where everything feels just right, where the company, the setting, and the mood all come together in perfect harmony.

At some point, Martinus leans in closer to me, his voice low and just for me. "So, about that date... any ideas on where you'd like to go?"

I think for a moment, enjoying the playful glint in his eyes. "Surprise me," I reply with a smile. 

He nods, his smile widening. "I can do that. How about tomorrow evening?"

"Tomorrow sounds perfect," I agree, feeling a thrill of anticipation for what the next day will bring.

As we leave the restaurant and start walking back to the hotel, the cool night air feels refreshing against my skin. Nora and I fall into step beside each other, with Martinus and Marcus walking a bit ahead, still caught up in their conversation about the game.

Nora glances at me with a sly smile, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So," she begins, drawing out the word in a teasing tone, "you and Martinus seem to be getting pretty close."

I can't help but smile, the memory of Martinus's touch and the promise of tomorrow's date still fresh in my mind. "Yeah, I guess we are," I admit, trying to keep my tone casual, but the excitement slips through.

Nora raises an eyebrow, clearly amused by my attempt at nonchalance. "You guess? Come on, Y/N, I saw the way he was looking at you tonight. And don't think I missed that little conversation you two were having about the date."

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks, but I can't help but laugh. "Okay, fine. Maybe there's something more there," I concede, unable to hide the grin spreading across my face.