A Little Less Alone

Beth had spent most of the day prepping the house—cleaning up, rearranging the living room to make space for people to gather, and making sure she had everything she needed for the night. She had texted Viv that morning to confirm the plan, and Viv had let her know she’d land around six, meaning she’d be at Beth’s by seven after grabbing an Uber from the airport.

“That’s perfect,” Beth had replied, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Still, knowing Viv was coming made Beth more nervous than she wanted to admit. It wasn’t like it was a date, but it also wasn’t not a date, and she felt an odd need to make sure everything was perfect.

By the afternoon, Steph and Jen showed up to help her finish setting up, beers in hand and teasing grins on their faces.

“You’re way too stressed,” Steph said, plopping onto the couch.

Beth rolled her eyes as she rearranged some snacks on the table. “I’m just making sure things are nice.”

Jen smirked, exchanging a look with Steph. “Right. Totally for us and not for Viv.”

Beth shot them a glare. “Can you two just help instead of being annoying?”

Steph laughed but stood up. “Alright, alright. What do you need?”

They spent the next hour setting up decorations, fixing up a small drink station, and ensuring everything looked put together. At some point, Jen noticed Beth checking her phone a little too often and nudged her with a smirk.

“Expecting an important text?”

Beth rolled her eyes. “She’s just letting me know when she gets here.”

Steph smirked. “Oh, so she’s texting when she leaves the airport? That’s serious dedication.”

Beth groaned. “Can you both just—shut up?”

Jen and Steph just grinned at each other but let it go, for now.

Viv’s heart was beating a little too fast as she wheeled her suitcase through the London airport, checking her phone to confirm her Uber pickup spot. She was excited to see Beth—more than she wanted to admit to herself.

She had missed Beth, and this trip had only made that feeling stronger.

As she passed a small shop in the terminal, she suddenly had an idea. She stepped inside, quickly scanning the shelves before grabbing two bottles of alcohol—one a fancy bottle of gin she thought Beth might like and another a nice Vodka she figured could be a good contribution to the party.

Then, just as she was about to leave, her eyes landed on the flower stand near the checkout. She hesitated for half a second before grabbing a small bouquet—simple, but still really pretty.

She had seen how much Beth had loved the first ones she gave her, how she had kept staring at them that night, smiling to herself.

Maybe it was silly, but Viv wanted to see that smile again.

Once she had everything, she headed outside, loading her suitcase into the Uber and texting Beth quickly.

Viv: Just got in the Uber. Should be there in 25.

Beth: Okay! Can’t wait to see you ❤️

Viv swallowed hard at the heart emoji, staring at it for a second before shaking her head at herself. She was being ridiculous.

Instead of overthinking, she leaned back in her seat, watching as the city lights of London blurred past, getting closer to Beth.

Beth was adjusting the music volume on her phone when she heard the doorbell ring. She quickly set it down, smoothing her hands over her sweater before heading to the door. She wasn’t nervous—not really—but there was something about seeing Viv again after weeks apart that made her stomach do a little flip.

She pulled the door open, and there was Viv, standing on the doorstep, looking effortlessly good in jeans and a simple sweater, her hair slightly tousled from travel.

But Beth barely had time to process how good Viv looked before her eyes landed on the bouquet of flowers in Viv’s hands.

Beth blinked. "You’re really leaning into this romance thing, huh?"

Viv smirked slightly, lifting the flowers a little. "You liked them last time."

Beth bit back a smile, taking the bouquet from her gently. "I did," she admitted, glancing down at them. They were fresh, vibrant, and smelled amazing.

For a moment, she just stared at them, turning them slightly in her hands. She hadn’t expected Viv to bring her flowers again.

"You don’t like them?" Viv’s voice was softer now, a small crease forming between her brows.

Beth immediately shook her head. "No, no, I do. I just…" She exhaled a small chuckle. "No one’s ever really given me flowers before."

Viv’s expression softened, and Beth swore she saw something warm flicker in her eyes. "Well," Viv murmured, "guess I’ll have to keep being the first, then."

Beth felt something twist pleasantly in her chest. She opened her mouth to say something—**something teasing, maybe something honest—**but Viv leaned in first, pressing a soft peck to Beth’s lips.

It was short, barely anything, but the warmth of it lingered.

When Viv pulled back, her eyes flickered to the house. "Should I come in, or are we staying out here?"

Beth huffed a quiet laugh, stepping aside. "Get in here before I start looking like a lovestruck idiot on my own doorstep."

Viv chuckled and stepped inside, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. As Beth closed the door behind her, she lowered her voice slightly, leaning in.

"Just so you know," Beth whispered, "Steph and Jen are already in the living room."

Viv arched an eyebrow. "And that’s… a problem?"

Beth hesitated. "No, just—wasn’t sure how you wanted to act."

Viv gave her a small, knowing look, reaching out and tucking a strand of Beth’s hair behind her ear. "Definitely not a secret, Beth."

Beth felt her stomach flip again. She exhaled, smiling slightly. "Good."

"Now," she continued, gesturing down the hall, "go put your bag in my room."

Viv nodded, rolling her suitcase a few feet before pausing and turning back. "Hey, uh, would you mind if I take a quick shower?"

Beth blinked, shifting the flowers in her hands. "Yeah, of course. Fresh towels are in the bathroom."

Viv smiled. "Thanks."

Beth watched as Viv grabbed her bag and started toward the hallway. Before she disappeared, she poked her head into the living room, offering a small wave.

"Hey, you two," Viv greeted casually.

Steph grinned, leaning back against the couch. "Look who decided to show up."

Jen smirked. "Took you long enough."

Viv chuckled. "Yeah, well, I had to stop and pick up a couple of things."

Beth, who had just stepped into the room behind Viv, rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah, she’s here now. Everyone be nice."

Viv shot Beth a look. "You make it sound like they were gonna be mean."

Steph smirked. "Oh, we wouldn’t dare."

Viv shook her head, amused, before nodding toward the hallway. "I’m gonna go take that shower before I get bullied."

Beth watched her walk off, exhaling slightly before turning back to Jen and Steph, who were both staring at her.

"Oh, don’t start," Beth muttered.

Steph just smirked. "Oh, we’re definitely starting."

Beth stood in the kitchen, carefully placing the flowers Viv had brought into a jar with water, adjusting them slightly to make sure they looked just right. The deep red and soft white petals stood out beautifully against the counter, and she felt a warmth settle in her chest.

Behind her, Jen and Steph, who had been busy scrolling through their phones on the couch, finally looked up.

“Wait a minute,” Jen started, narrowing her eyes at the flowers. “Are those new?”

Beth turned slightly, holding them up. “Mhm.”

Steph sat up straighter. “As in, Viv just brought them?”

Beth nodded, feeling a smirk creeping up her lips but trying to play it off casually.

Jen let out a low whistle. “Wow. Miedema’s got game.”

Steph shook her head, crossing her arms. “I hate to admit it, but I’m impressed.”

Beth rolled her eyes, though her stomach flipped at the reminder.

“First, she gives you flowers at dinner, now she shows up with more?” Jen leaned forward. “Beth, she’s wooing you.”

Steph smirked. “Seriously, I thought Viv was the awkward, low-effort type, but apparently, she’s a closeted romantic.”

Beth huffed, trying to focus on fixing the flowers instead of letting them see how much she was enjoying this. “It’s not that deep.”

Steph scoffed. “Not that deep? She’s out here bringing you flowers like you’re in a bloody rom-com.”

Beth bit back a smile, shaking her head. “Shut up.”

Jen and Steph exchanged a knowing look but let it go—for now.

Before they could continue their teasing, the sound of the doorbell rang. Beth exhaled in relief, quickly moving toward the door.

She opened it to find Leah, Katie, and a few more teammates standing outside. Leah was the first one in, pulling Beth into a quick hug before stepping inside.

“Well, well,” Leah mused, looking around. “You’ve got yourself a proper little gathering, haven’t you?”

Beth smirked. “Wouldn’t want you lot in a club embarrassing yourselves, would I?”

Katie laughed, holding up a bottle of something strong. “Then we better get drinking.”

As the group settled in, Beth glanced at the time, knowing Viv would be out soon. When she did, Beth wasn’t fully prepared for the way her breath hitched.

Viv walked out of the bedroom, fresh from her shower, wearing fitted black trousers and a soft cardigan over a simple top. Her hair, instead of its usual bun, was pulled into a loose low bun, strands framing her face. It was a simple look, but Beth couldn't help but admire how effortlessly good she looked.

Beth turned from the kitchen just as Viv emerged from the hallway, fresh from her shower, her hair now tied back in a low, loose bun, a few strands framing her face in a way that made Beth's stomach tighten unexpectedly. The soft cardigan draped over her shoulders made her look effortlessly elegant, yet still entirely like herself, and Beth had to take a moment before she found her voice.

"You look beautiful," Beth said, quieter than she expected, like it had slipped out before she had the chance to hold it back.

Viv glanced at her, mid-adjusting the sleeve of her cardigan, and hesitated slightly, her fingers stilling for a beat. There was a small flicker in her eyes, something unreadable, before she offered a shy smile. “Oh? Do I?”

Beth nodded, clearing her throat slightly as she turned back to fixing the drinks. “Yeah. You do.”

Viv’s lips twitched, like she was holding back a grin, a faint pink dusting her cheeks. Before she could say anything else, Katie called her over, pulling her into a conversation with a few of their teammates.

Beth let out a small breath, shaking herself from whatever moment that had been, trying to refocus on setting up the rest of the drinks. But her mind was still stuck on Viv—on how good she looked, on the small flicker of shyness in her expression, on the way Beth suddenly felt like she needed to keep herself in check.

Beth glanced at Leah as she leaned casually against the counter, popping a crisp into her mouth. She could already tell by the smirk on Leah’s face that she wasn’t going to drop the topic anytime soon.

Beth inhaled slightly, fiddling with the glass in her hand before finally giving in. “They’re from Viv,” she admitted, voice soft but certain.

Leah, mid-chew, stopped abruptly. She blinked, her expression frozen for a second before she slowly turned to face Beth fully. “Wait—Viv? As in Vivianne Miedema? Gave you those flowers?”

Beth rolled her eyes. “No, Leah, another Vivianne Miedema, obviously.”

Leah ignored the sarcasm, her smirk widening as she let out a short laugh. “Wow. Didn’t know she had that kind of game.”

Beth huffed a small laugh, shaking her head. “Apparently, she does.”

Leah studied her for a moment before crossing her arms. “So… is this, like, a real thing now? What’s happening here?”

Beth hesitated, running a finger around the rim of her glass. “I don’t know… I mean, yeah, I think it’s a real thing.” She looked over at Viv, who was caught in conversation with Jen and Steph, her eyes crinkling slightly as she laughed at something one of them had said. Beth felt a warmth settle in her chest just looking at her.

Leah followed her gaze, then nudged Beth with her shoulder. “Has anything happened? Like… you know.”

Beth side-eyed her. “What do you mean ‘you know’?”

Leah raised an eyebrow. “I mean, more than talking.”

Beth felt the heat creep up her neck but shook her head. “No. Just kissing.”

Leah let out a dramatic sigh. “Unbelievable. You’re actually taking it slow? Who even are you?”

Beth laughed, shaking her head. “Shut up.”

Leah studied her for a moment, her teasing smirk fading just slightly. “You like her,” she observed, more certain now.

Beth let out a small breath, glancing back at Viv again, who was still chatting but now stealing a quick sip from her drink, looking completely at ease.

Beth swallowed, then nodded. “Yeah,” she admitted softly. “I think I’m falling in love with her.”

Leah’s eyes widened slightly, and for a rare moment, she looked genuinely taken aback. Then, a slow, knowing smile spread across her face. “Shit, Beth,” she murmured. “That’s… big.”

Beth huffed a small laugh, shaking her head. “I know.”

Leah tilted her head, watching her. “And does she know?”

Beth exhaled, rubbing a hand over her face. “Not sure.”

Leah grinned. “Well, she bought you flowers, so I’d say you’re on the right track.”

Beth let out a small, nervous laugh, still staring at Viv. “Yeah… maybe.”

Leah followed her gaze again, observing Viv for a moment before smirking. “At least you’re into someone that’s actually attractive.”

Beth snorted, shoving her lightly. “Shut up.”

Leah laughed, throwing an arm around Beth’s shoulder and squeezing lightly. “Nah, but seriously, B… this is kind of nice.”

Beth smiled, letting herself lean into the moment. “Yeah,” she said softly. “It really is.”

Viv was half-listening to Katie and Lotte as they chatted about something ridiculous that had happened at training, nodding along absentmindedly, but her eyes kept drifting across the room—always finding their way back to Beth.

Beth was standing across the room, chatting animatedly with a group of people who had just arrived, a drink in her hand, laughing at something Leah had said. She looked effortlessly at ease, her eyes crinkling slightly at the corners as she grinned.

"If you keep staring at her like that, she’s gonna think you want to fuck her or something," Katie said casually, taking a sip of her drink, her smirk only growing when Viv’s head snapped toward her.

Lotte let out a quiet laugh, glancing between them. "Yeah, I think you’ve looked at her more than your drink at this point."

Viv huffed a small chuckle, shaking her head as she took a sip of her beer, trying to play it cool. "I haven’t been staring."

Katie scoffed, leaning her elbow on the counter. "Mate, I think I could’ve started a stopwatch and caught you at a solid thirty seconds straight just now."

Lotte grinned, nudging her. "Do you always get this distracted by her, or is it just tonight?"

Viv hesitated, glancing at Beth again for a brief moment before shrugging, keeping her tone light. "Well… we do have a thing."

Katie nearly choked on her drink. "A thing?" she repeated, eyes wide with amusement. "Did you just say a thing?"

Lotte tilted her head, intrigued. "Like… an actual thing?"

Viv could feel both of them staring at her now, waiting for her to elaborate, but she just took another sip of her drink, keeping her expression unreadable. "Yeah. A thing."

Katie blinked at her, unimpressed. "Wow. Real descriptive, Viv. That explains everything."

Viv smirked slightly but didn’t say anything more.

Lotte, still watching her curiously, finally asked, "So… are you guys dating, or…?"

Viv exhaled slowly, her fingers tapping lightly against her bottle. "We haven’t exactly talked about labels, but…" She trailed off, as if even she wasn’t sure how to sum it up.

Lotte’s mouth dropped open slightly, and Katie gave her an exaggerated nudge. "See? I told you something was going on!"

Lotte shook her head, still surprised. "I thought you were just, you know, seeing where things were going."

Viv finally turned to them fully, still calm. "We are." She took another sip of her drink, then glanced over at Beth again, her lips twitching into a small smile as she watched her throw her head back laughing. "But yeah. I’d say it’s something."

Katie rolled her eyes, exasperated. "You’re so casual about this. It’s annoying."

Viv smirked. "Would you prefer it if I panicked instead?"

"Honestly? Yeah, a little."

Lotte chuckled, shaking her head. "Beth’s gonna lose it when she finds out you just called your relationship a thing."

Viv’s smirk didn’t fade. "I think she already knows."

Katie groaned, but before she could press for more details, Beth finally turned, catching Viv’s gaze across the room. She smiled instantly, giving Viv a small nod as if to say, you okay over there?

Viv just lifted her beer slightly in response, watching as Beth’s smile grew before she turned back to her conversation.

Beth was still leaning against the counter, talking quietly with Viv, when Leah strolled into the kitchen, grabbing a glass from the shelf with the kind of ease that said she’d done this a hundred times before. She filled it with water, took a slow sip, and then casually leaned against the counter across from them, a smirk tugging at her lips.

"Those are some really nice flowers," she mused, swirling the water in her glass as her eyes flicked between Beth and Viv.

Beth instantly felt Viv shift beside her, not exactly tense, but a little… awkward. Viv shot Leah a look that was almost suspicious before glancing at Beth, like she was bracing herself.

"Yeah, they are," Beth replied, feigning innocence as she adjusted one of the stems in the vase on the counter.

Leah tilted her head. "Wonder who got them for you."

Viv cleared her throat, reaching for her own glass of water as she muttered, "Subtle, Leah."

Leah chuckled, looking far too pleased with herself. "Oh, come on. You can’t expect me not to say anything. Never thought I’d see this day."

Beth groaned, rubbing a hand over her face. "Leah—"

"You should probably get a vase for those," she said, her tone casual but carrying just enough amusement to make Beth roll her eyes.

Beth sighed, glancing at Viv beside her, who was suddenly very focused on the rim of her glass. "Yeah, yeah, I will."

Leah tilted her head slightly, glancing between them, her smirk deepening. "They’re nice, though. Thoughtful." She paused, her gaze lingering on Viv. "Wouldn’t have taken you for the flowers type, Viv."

Viv exhaled softly, lifting her shoulders in a half-shrug. "I’m not, really."

Beth shot her a playful look. "Could’ve fooled me."

Viv gave her a glance that was both shy and amused, before taking a sip of her drink.

Leah hummed, nodding at the bouquet again. "Yeah, gotta say, wasn’t expecting such a romantic move from you." She took another sip of water, her smirk lingering. "But hey, when you like someone, you go all out, huh?"

Viv cleared her throat, shifting slightly. "It’s just flowers."

Leah raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. "Mmmhmm. Sure."

Beth, watching the exchange with an amused smile, finally shook her head. "Alright, we’re done with the interrogation."

Leah grinned. "Oh, I’m just appreciating the effort. It’s nice to see someone treat Beth properly for once."

Beth groaned. "Leah, please."

Viv, though still a little awkward, let out a quiet laugh.

Leah gave them both a knowing look before pushing off the counter. "Alright, alright, I’ll leave you lovebirds to it."

Beth huffed, turning to put the flowers in water, but not before nudging Viv lightly. "You handled that well."

Viv chuckled under her breath. "Barely."

Beth smirked. "Yeah, but you did."

Viv looked at her, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "She’s not wrong though, you know."

Beth tilted her head. "About what?"

Viv’s gaze flickered to the flowers, then back to Beth. "You should be treated properly."

Beth’s breath caught for a second, her heart doing something ridiculous in her chest, but instead of dwelling on it, she just smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Well… you’re doing a pretty good job so far."

"Come on," she said, nudging Viv lightly. "Let’s get back out there before Leah starts another round."

Viv smirked, following Beth back into the party, a little more comfortable than before.

The atmosphere in Beth’s house was warm and buzzing with excitement. The music was a little louder now, everyone was tipsy and in high spirits, drinks in hand, voices blending into laughter and countdowns as midnight approached. Beth had been floating between conversations, her eyes always flickering back to Viv, who was chatting with Katie and Lotte, an easy smile on her face.

Beth wasn’t sure if it was the alcohol making her bolder, or if it was just the undeniable pull toward Viv that had been there all night, but as the countdown hit the final ten seconds, she made her way through the crowd.

"TEN!"

Viv caught her gaze, her lips curving into a small smile when she noticed Beth heading straight for her.

"NINE!"

Beth could feel her heart pounding just a little harder, but it wasn’t nerves—it was anticipation.

"EIGHT!"

She stepped in closer, their shoulders brushing, the warmth of Viv’s body grounding her.

"SEVEN! SIX!"

Viv tilted her head, her eyes flickering between Beth’s eyes and her lips, as if she already knew where this was going but wanted to be sure.

"FIVE! FOUR!"

Beth smirked, leaning in slightly, her voice just low enough for Viv to hear. “You okay if we do this?”

"THREE!"

Viv exhaled softly, her lips parting slightly before she nodded. “Yeah.”

"TWO!"

Beth didn’t waste another second.

"ONE! HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

As the room exploded into cheers, hugs, and kisses, Beth closed the space between them, pressing her lips to Viv’s in a slow, sure kiss. The noise around them faded for a moment, the only thing that mattered was the warmth of Viv’s mouth against hers, the way Viv immediately melted into her, hands lightly gripping Beth’s sides as if she was afraid to let go too soon.

It wasn’t rushed, wasn’t showy—it was just them.

When Beth pulled back, their foreheads rested together for a brief second before she whispered, “Happy New Year, Viv.”

Viv let out a small breathy laugh, her fingers tightening slightly on Beth’s waist. “Happy New Year, Beth.”

Beth smiled, her thumb brushing lightly against Viv’s side. “I have a feeling it’s going to be a good one.”

Viv tilted her head, their noses brushing as she murmured, “Yeah… me too.”

Beth’s lips were still tingling from the kiss, her forehead resting lightly against Viv’s as the noise of the party buzzed around them. Everything else felt distant, like they were in their own little world, wrapped up in the warmth of each other.

Viv swallowed, her fingers still curled lightly around Beth’s wrist. She took a small breath, like she was gathering courage, before finally whispering, “I really like you… and us.”

Beth felt her chest tighten in the best way. Viv’s voice was soft, shy almost, like she wasn’t used to admitting things like this out loud.

A slow, wide smile spread across Beth’s face, something undeniably fond in her eyes as she reached up, brushing a stray strand of hair behind Viv’s ear before leaning in again.

This kiss was softer, unhurried, like she wanted Viv to feel what she couldn’t quite put into words yet.

When she pulled back, she let her hands settle on Viv’s waist, squeezing lightly. “I like you and us too.”

Viv exhaled, her lips parting slightly like she wasn’t expecting Beth to say it back so easily. But Beth just grinned, tilting her head.

“Like, a lot.”

Viv let out a quiet, breathy laugh, ducking her head slightly, her cheeks a soft shade of pink.

Beth nudged her playfully. “What? You didn’t think I’d say it back?”

Viv shook her head, biting her lip to hide her smile. “No, I just… I like hearing it.”

Beth’s heart clenched in the best way. She leaned in, pressing one more kiss—light and lingering—to the corner of Viv’s mouth.

“Good,” she murmured against her skin. “Because I’m probably gonna say it a lot.”

Viv laughed again, shaking her head as she buried her face into Beth’s shoulder for a second. Beth just held her there, letting the moment stretch, letting herself feel it—because there was no doubt anymore.

This—them—felt right.

The party was still going strong, laughter echoing through Beth’s house as the music pulsed softly in the background. Drinks had been flowing, and Beth was feeling it—just tipsy enough that everything felt a little funnier, a little warmer. And her eyes? Well, they had been locked on Viv for a while now.

She spotted her sitting on the couch, relaxed, a drink in her hand as she chatted with Lotte and Katie. The way Viv was lounging, one arm draped over the back of the couch, legs spread in that effortlessly cool way she had—it was doing something to Beth. Too much, if she was honest.

Without thinking much, Beth made her way over, weaving through a few lingering guests before dropping herself next to Viv. Well, more half on top of her, one leg thrown over Viv’s lap as she settled in, facing her with a mischievous smirk.

Viv raised an eyebrow, though there was amusement in her eyes. “Comfortable?”

Beth grinned, her fingers immediately finding the soft fabric of Viv’s cardigan, absentmindedly tracing the sleeve. “Very.”

Viv shook her head but didn’t move her, sipping her drink. Beth took the opportunity to let her gaze drift over her, admiring every little detail—the way her jaw looked impossibly sharp in the dim light, the effortless way she held herself, the slight flush of pink on her cheeks from the alcohol.

“You look really good tonight,” Beth murmured, her voice just low enough for only Viv to hear.

Viv’s lips curled into a small smirk. “Yeah?”

Beth nodded, dragging her fingers down Viv’s arm, teasing. “Mhm. There’s something about you tonight… This whole more, I dunno, top energy? It’s kind of hot.”

Viv let out a short laugh, tilting her head. “Oh? And here I thought you liked me all soft and feminine. Hair down, pretty sweaters…”

Beth leaned in, close enough that her lips brushed the corner of Viv’s mouth, teasing. “Tonight, I love you like this.” Her fingers squeezed lightly at Viv’s thigh for emphasis.

Viv’s breath hitched for just a second before she chuckled. “You’re very drunk.”

Beth hummed, tilting her head. “Nah. Just drunk enough to tell you exactly how much I want you.”

Viv swallowed, her grip tightening just slightly on Beth’s hip where she had instinctively placed her hand. Beth felt the warmth of it, the weight of her fingers pressing through the fabric of her trousers, and it sent a small shiver down her spine.

Beth smirked, lowering her voice, making sure Viv felt every syllable. “And just sober enough to know you’re feeling the same.”

Viv exhaled sharply through her nose, looking away for a split second, like she was trying to compose herself, but Beth caught it—the way her fingers flexed slightly against her hip, how she shifted beneath her.

Beth grinned, her hand sliding up Viv’s arm again. “You’re so cute when you try to pretend you’re not affected,” she teased.

Viv let out a huff, shaking her head, but she wasn’t fooling anyone.

Beth tilted her head, smirking as she continued, her voice dripping with amusement. “Bet you love this, don’t you? Me sitting on your lap, all over you like this…”

Viv cleared her throat, lifting her drink slightly, like it was a convenient distraction. “Maybe.”

Beth’s heart stuttered for a second, not expecting that answer, but she recovered quickly, smirk deepening. “Well,” she murmured, leaning in again, lips dangerously close to Viv’s ear. “Good.”

Viv was about to respond, but then a few guests started making their way over, announcing their goodbyes. Beth groaned softly, reluctantly pulling back. “Duty calls,” she sighed, sliding off Viv’s lap with exaggerated effort.

Viv smirked. “Go be a good host.”

Beth rolled her eyes but sent her one last lingering look before going to say goodbye to everyone.

Beth let out a sigh as the last of their teammates finally trickled out, leaving only her, Viv, Steph, and Jen in the aftermath of the party. The place was a mess—empty cups, bottles, plates stacked on random surfaces. The faint hum of music still played in the background, and Beth already felt the slight buzz of exhaustion creeping in.

Steph clapped her hands together. “Alright, let’s clean this up before Beth starts dramatically complaining about it in the morning.”

Beth gave her a look. “I wouldn’t—” She paused when all three of them raised their eyebrows at her. “Fine. But I could just deal with it tomorrow.”

Viv, standing beside her, shook her head with an amused expression. “That sounds like a terrible idea.”

Beth groaned but didn’t argue, starting to gather some of the empty glasses while Viv grabbed a trash bag. They all fell into an easy rhythm—Steph collecting bottles, Jen wiping down the counters, Beth moving furniture back into place. Occasionally, she’d bump into Viv, and every time, Viv would send her a small, knowing smile that sent warmth through Beth’s already tipsy brain.

As they stacked plates in the sink, Beth turned to Viv, nudging her with her hip. “Not regretting coming, are you?”

Viv shot her a look, her lips twitching. “Regretting? No. Wondering how I got roped into cleaning up at your party? Maybe.”

Beth laughed, reaching for the dish towel. “You’re part of the team now. This is the initiation.”

Jen, drying off her hands, smirked. “I think she got a different initiation than us.”

Beth turned red, and Viv rolled her eyes, looking anywhere but at Jen.

As they worked, the conversation drifted into the usual post-party debrief—who got the drunkest (unanimous vote: Katie), which of their teammates was the worst dancer (also Katie), and whether or not Leah had really agreed to do a round of karaoke or if Beth had imagined it (she had agreed, but conveniently disappeared before it happened).

Eventually, after all the glasses were rinsed and the living room looked somewhat decent again, Steph stretched and grabbed her coat. “Alright, I think we’ve earned our exit.”

Jen glanced at Viv, then Beth, her expression slightly amused. “You staying here tonight?”

Beth opened her mouth to respond, but Viv beat her to it, nodding easily. “Yeah.”

Steph smirked slightly. “Right. Of course.”

Beth rolled her eyes. “Don’t start.”

Jen grinned, throwing her hands up. “Hey, I didn’t say anything!”

Beth gave her a look, but Jen just exchanged a glance with Steph before pulling her into a quick hug. “Happy New Year, loser. Try not to miss us too much.”

Beth huffed but hugged her back, and then Steph followed with a quick squeeze before they both made their way to the door.

Before stepping out, Steph turned back, her eyes flicking between Beth and Viv. “Have a good night, you two.”

Beth narrowed her eyes. “That sounded loaded.”

Steph smirked. “Oh, not at all.”

Jen just winked, and then they were gone, leaving Beth shaking her head as she locked the door.

She turned back to Viv, who was leaning against the counter with an amused expression. “They’re never going to stop teasing us, are they?”

Viv shrugged. “Probably not.”

Beth sighed, making her way over and looping her arms around Viv’s waist. “You okay with that?”

Viv’s lips twitched into a small smile. “I think I can handle it.”

Beth hummed, satisfied, and pulled her toward the couch. “Come on, we’ve earned a sit-down.”

Viv let herself be guided, and as they settled into the cushions, Beth curled in a little closer, letting the warmth of the night settle around them.

Beth sighed as she sank into the couch beside Viv, stretching her legs out in front of her. The house was finally clean—well, clean enough—and the post-party haze was settling in. The room was quieter now, just the soft hum of music still playing from the speaker and the occasional sound of the wind outside.

Viv shifted beside her, leaning back into the cushions, her fingers lightly drumming on her knee. She turned her head slightly toward Beth, her voice softer now that it was just the two of them.

Viv shifted beside her, leaning back into the cushions, fingers lightly tapping against her knee. She turned slightly toward Beth, her voice softer now that the night was winding down.

“So,” Viv said, her lips curling into a small smile. “I’m staying?”

Beth blinked, realizing she had just kind of assumed that, and suddenly, she felt a little ridiculous for not even asking.

“Uh—” Beth sat up a little, rubbing the back of her neck. “I mean… I figured you would? I didn’t really think to ask, but if you want to go home, I can—”

Viv shook her head before Beth could finish. “No, I want to stay.”

Beth let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, grinning slightly. “Good. I was gonna have to beg otherwise.”

Viv smirked, giving her a look. “Beg?”

Beth huffed a laugh, tilting her head. “Yeah, beg. I’d get on my knees and everything.”

Viv inhaled sharply, her expression flickering for just a second before she rolled her lips together, looking away as if she needed a second to compose herself.

Beth caught it immediately, and a slow grin spread across her face.

“Oh, you liked that one, huh?” she teased, shifting slightly so their knees touched.

Viv shook her head, exhaling a soft laugh. “You’re full of it.”

Beth raised an eyebrow. “Oh, so now I’m full of it?”

Viv turned toward her fully now, her face closer than before. “Yeah.”

Beth hummed, tilting her head slightly. “I think you secretly like it.”

Viv huffed but didn’t deny it.

Beth smirked. “You definitely do.”

Viv shook her head again, but the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her. “You’re ridiculous.”

Viv chuckled softly, shaking her head, but Beth could tell she was enjoying this—enjoying how Beth was inching closer, how her touch was growing more deliberate, more teasing.

Beth took her time, letting her fingers drift up to Viv’s collarbone, tracing the delicate skin there before trailing down again, her touch featherlight.

“You look really good tonight,” Beth murmured, her voice dropping lower, more intimate.

Viv’s breath hitched slightly, her fingers twitching where they rested against her lap. “Yeah?”

Beth hummed, her hand now resting against Viv’s thigh, her thumb brushing slow circles. “Mmhmm.” She let her gaze flicker down briefly before meeting Viv’s eyes again. “Liked watching you tonight.”

Viv swallowed, her lips parting slightly, and Beth took that as permission to lean in just a little more, her breath warm against Viv’s skin.

Viv exhaled sharply, her voice quieter now. “You’re staring.”

Beth smirked, her hand tightening just slightly on Viv’s thigh. “So are you.”

Viv let out a quiet chuckle, but Beth could feel the way her body was reacting, the way her breathing had changed.

Beth leaned in, her lips just barely grazing Viv’s jaw, her voice a whisper. “Tell me to stop.”

Viv didn’t.

Instead, she turned her head slightly, and that was all the invitation Beth needed. She closed the distance between them, pressing her lips to Viv’s in a slow, deliberate kiss.

Viv let out a quiet sound against her mouth, her hands reaching instinctively for Beth’s waist, pulling her closer. Beth moved without thinking, swinging a leg over and settling onto Viv’s lap, deepening the kiss as her hands slid into Viv’s hair, tilting her head back slightly.

Viv let out a soft gasp, her fingers gripping Beth’s hips tightly as Beth kissed her again, this time with more urgency, more need.

Beth’s hands wandered, slipping under Viv’s cardigan, her fingers grazing the warm skin beneath. Viv’s breath hitched, her hands tightening on Beth’s waist as she pulled her closer, their bodies pressing flush against each other.

Beth smirked, pressing herself closer, her fingers running along the hem of Viv’s top, teasing but never quite dipping under. “I feel like I’m getting away with a lot right now,” she murmured against Viv’s lips, biting down gently before pulling back just enough to see Viv’s reaction.

Viv’s breath came a little quicker, her grip tightening on Beth’s waist as if to keep herself steady. "Are you?" she replied, her voice low, though Beth could feel the way her fingers dug into her skin.

Beth tilted her head, her lips brushing along Viv’s jaw, her smirk only growing as she felt Viv shiver beneath her touch. “Mmm,” she hummed, placing a soft kiss just beneath her ear, dragging her lips down to the sensitive skin of her neck. “You tell me. You haven't exactly stopped me.”

Viv exhaled sharply, her fingers slipping under Beth’s shirt, tracing slow, deliberate circles against her back. “Maybe I don’t want to,” she admitted, her voice quieter now, like it was slipping out before she could stop herself.

Beth smirked against Viv’s skin, feeling the way her breath came quicker, how her grip on Beth’s waist tightened like she was holding on for dear life. The little admission—maybe I don’t want to—lingered in the air between them, charged, heavy, undeniable.

Beth exhaled slowly, her lips grazing the shell of Viv’s ear. “You don’t want to stop?” she murmured, her voice low, teasing. “Or you don’t want me to stop?”

Viv swallowed hard, her fingers twitching slightly against Beth’s back, like she was debating between pulling her closer or pushing her away just to get a second to breathe. Beth knew exactly what she was doing to her, and she reveled in it.

“Beth…” Viv warned, though there was no real bite behind it—only tension, only a quiet plea hidden behind her name.

Beth grinned, shifting her weight just slightly, pressing her hips down against Viv’s lap, slow and deliberate. Viv inhaled sharply, her hands tightening around Beth’s sides.

“Relax,” Beth whispered, nipping lightly at Viv’s jaw. “You’re so tense.”

Viv let out a shaky breath, tilting her head back slightly. “Wonder why,” she muttered, her voice strained.

Beth chuckled, dragging her lips down the column of Viv’s throat, pressing open-mouthed kisses along her skin. “Mmm,” she hummed, trailing her fingers up Viv’s sides, ghosting over the fabric of her cardigan. “Maybe I should do something about that.”

Viv’s breath hitched.

Beth pulled back just slightly, just enough to meet Viv’s gaze, her eyes dark with something playful, something almost dangerous. “Tell me,” she murmured, fingers slipping under Viv’s top, teasing against her skin. “What do you want, Viv?”

Viv’s jaw tensed, her fingers gripping Beth’s waist almost painfully now. She exhaled through her nose, trying to hold onto whatever self-control she had left. “I—”

Beth tilted her head, brushing her lips just barely over Viv’s, not quite kissing her. “C’mon,” she coaxed, voice barely above a whisper. “You were doing so well a second ago.”

Viv let out a frustrated breath, her head tipping back against the couch. Beth watched her, grinning, knowing she had her exactly where she wanted her.

Beth leaned in again, her lips grazing Viv’s ear as she whispered, “I like you like this.”

Viv swallowed thickly. “Like what?” she managed to ask, her voice barely steady.

Beth smirked, her fingers pressing more firmly against Viv’s sides, tracing lazy patterns on her skin. “Like this,” she murmured, kissing just beneath Viv’s ear, trailing lower, letting her lips linger. “Breathless. Desperate.”

Viv let out something between a laugh and a groan, shaking her head again. But before Beth could tease her again, Viv’s hands moved—sudden, firm—gripping Beth’s waist and flipping their positions so Beth was pinned against the couch cushions, Viv now hovering over her.

Beth’s eyes widened slightly, her smirk faltering for just a second before she let out a quiet chuckle. “Oh,” she mused, tilting her head. “Look at you.”

Viv exhaled, her own smirk creeping onto her lips now, something more confident settling into her posture. “What?” she asked, feigning innocence.

Beth grinned, hands resting on Viv’s waist. “Didn’t think you had it in you.”

Viv leaned in, pressing a slow, deliberate kiss to Beth’s lips before pulling back just enough to whisper, “You bring it out in me.”

Beth swallowed. “Bedroom,” she murmured suddenly, her voice lower now, rougher.

Viv’s lips curled into something smug. “Mmm.”

Beth let out a breath, her fingers gripping Viv’s hips. “Say it back.”

Viv inhaled, dragging her lips along Beth’s jaw, before whispering in a tone that made Beth’s stomach flip, “Bedroom.”

Beth exhaled sharply. “Yeah,” she muttered, pulling Viv up with her as she stood. “Now.”