All for the Mirrorball

Chapter 32 - Definitely Going to Scream

Jeff's tail wagged as he sniffed at yet another tree, giving them an excuse to linger under the glow of a streetlamp. Alan watched the dog for a moment before glancing over to Ilona.

"I could get used to this," he said, his voice soft. "Our little routine. Ending the night walking Jeff, no cameras, no schedules. Just us."

Ilona's smile widened, but it faltered when she saw the way his expression shifted, a subtle shadow crossing his face.

He cleared his throat, hesitant. "But, you know, when you le-"

"Al," she interrupted, stepping in front of him. "Can we just enjoy this for tonight?"

As his eyes searched hers, she saw it - the shadow of panic, of uncertainty. She reached for his hand, lacing her fingers with his.

"Not because I'm avoiding it," she reassured, her voice steady. "I know we'll figure it out. We're solid. It's just... we just got through telling my parents, you know? I just want to enjoy this moment without immediately overthinking what's next."

Alan exhaled, his shoulders relaxing as he gave her hand a squeeze. "Okay. Tonight, it's just us."

"Exactly," she said, her smile returning. "And Jeff."

As if on cue, Jeff tugged them forward, and Alan's free hand slid to her back, his fingers brushing against her hoodie.

"Just us and Jeff. I like it." He nodded his head happily. "I like you," he added.

Ilona smirked. "Trust me, it's mutual."

As they neared the house, Alan tugged her gently closer, his lips brushing her temple. "We're still talking about this tomorrow," he murmured against her skin.

"Obviously," she replied, her voice light as she leaned into him.

—

The soft hum of her alarm barely registered before Ilona was up, washing her face, dressing, and pulling on her sneakers with practiced ease. She glanced over to see him sitting up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

"You're up," she said, pausing by the door. "Joining me again?"

"Every morning," he said, his voice still gravelly with sleep. "You think I'm missing out on any time with you this week?"

Her heart softened as she walked over, leaning down to kiss him. "Alright, but don't complain when I outlift you again."

"I have to dream big, Lo," he shot back, grabbing his water bottle and keys.

The car ride to the gym was filled with their usual banter, the kind that felt effortless after weeks of stolen mornings together. They kept their workout quick but effective, trading playful challenges between sets.

"Don't let me show you up," Alan teased as Ilona breezed through her squats.

"You're already too late," she quipped, wiping her brow.

After finishing, they swung by their favorite coffee shop, Alan ordering their usuals while Ilona debated breakfast options. By the time they got back to his place, the smell of egg sandwiches and fresh coffee filled the air.

"Is it weird that I'm so excited to tell people?" she asked, sipping her coffee.

Alan shook his head. "Not at all. I think Joey's going to freak out."

"Oh, Chandler's definitely going to scream," Ilona said, laughing.

They spent the rest of breakfast guessing how their friends would react and chatting excitedly about their freestyle before driving their own cars to the studio.