Closer - A Connections Sequel [Ongoing]

Nineteen

Carter P.O.V.

Alec had won one of his nominated categories which was an amazing feat. I know Valerie had a great time, singing and bopping along to the performances by all the artists. I'm glad that we all decided to attend this show, it's been much more exciting than others I've attended as it was filled with plenty of entertainment.

As the show came to an end, masses of people began to leave and we all met in the hall so we could exit together. Immediately as we emerged out into the dark streets, bright flashing lights by the paparazzi appeared, snapping shots of the group. I pulled Valerie closer to my side as we passed by and into our cars to move on.

Dressed to the nines, the group of us made our way into burger shack for a much needed refresher. It was quite hilarious really, the bunch of us casually having takeout in our fancy clothes. Alexys and Jess even participated in an impromptu "burger shack chic" photo shoot via iPhone holding onto Alec's moonman. Our little group certainly got up to mischief sometimes. After we were all appropriately satisfied, it was time to move on to the after-party.

The night club we entered was in full-swing. the atmosphere was dark and heavy with flashes of colored strobe lights. Loud chatter, laughter, moving bodies and plenty of drinks were being passed around. We moved to a private booth and soon after, a server with a large sign board came over, two others by her side carrying large sparklers. The sign read 'Congratulations!' on it and a bottle of champagne was popped, the bubbles foaming out of the top.

"Congratulations Alec!!!" A chorus of cheers erupted. I clinked my glass to those around me and to Valerie, who grinned as she sipped her drink.

"Olivia!" Valerie suddenly stood up, coming over to give her friend a hug. I turned towards the direction she was looking in.

"Hey!" Olivia grinned, wrapping her arms around my fiancé.

"What are you doing here?" Valerie chirped excitedly.

"Actually," Olivia shifted on her feet nervously, "Alec invited me."

Valerie took a step back in surprise and smiled amusedly. "Oh. Well then!"

"I'm sorry if I didn't tell you... he's your friend after all."

"No!" Valerie grabbed her. "I don't mind at all! This is great." She encouraged Olivia. I smiled at my beautiful girl. She's always the absolute sweetest and supportive. "Come on let's sit and have drinks!"

"Hey Carter, how are you?" Olivia greeted me, I stood up and gave her a small hug hello.

"Hey, I'm great, how are you?"

"Yeah good good, it's crazy in here," she chuckled.

"Yeah definitely," I laughed. "Always is!"

A couple more cocktails arrived from the server girls for our group and Valerie and Olivia grabbed them enthusiastically.

"So, has Val gotten any more secret admirer gifts lately?" Kean asked from beside me.

I nodded. "Yep."

"You've got some competition, huh?" He teased lightheartedly.

I laughed. "An anonymous one. It's actually pretty weird."

"Yeah. What was the note this time?"

"It came with a basket full of candy and chocolate to the store again, and said that they hope she enjoys these, but nothing could compare to the sweetness of her soul." I recited, pursing my lips together at the memory.

Kean blew out a breath. "Damn, they've got game."

"That's for sure."

"To secret admirers going for your girl." He raised his glass to me, and I clinked my glass to his.