As the evening approached, Carina and Maya found themselves side by side in the bathroom, both leaning close to the mirror as they got ready for a night out at Joe's Bar. The soft glow of the vanity lights cast a warm light around them, and the sounds of Gabrielle and Alex laughing together in the living room created a comforting background.

Maya caught Carina's reflection in the mirror, admiring the way her hair cascaded over her shoulders as she carefully applied her makeup. Unable to resist, she leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on Carina's bare shoulder, lingering there as she let her hand trail softly down Carina's arm.

Carina turned slightly, her lips curving into a small smile. "Distracting me already, amore?" she murmured, her voice carrying that playful Italian lilt that always sent a thrill through Maya.

"Can you blame me?" Maya whispered, brushing a strand of Carina's hair back and meeting her gaze in the mirror. "You're stunning." She moved closer, wrapping her arms around Carina's waist from behind and pressing her cheek against Carina's. "I'm lucky I get to go out with you tonight."

Carina laughed softly, setting down her lipstick and turning in Maya's arms. "You make me feel beautiful every day," she said, cupping Maya's face, her thumb grazing Maya's cheek as she took in the love in her fiancée's eyes. She leaned in, her lips brushing against Maya's in a soft, lingering kiss that deepened as they held each other, both savoring the rare, quiet intimacy between them.

They stayed like that, wrapped up in each other, until Carina gently pulled back, her eyes gleaming with warmth. "We'd better finish getting ready, or else I might be tempted to stay in."

Maya smirked, her hands still on Carina's waist. "I mean… it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world," she teased, letting her fingers trace soft circles on Carina's hips.

Carina laughed, pressing a quick kiss to Maya's lips. "You promised Andy we'd come tonight," she reminded her playfully, stepping back to grab her earrings, though her eyes lingered on Maya as she continued. "Besides, I think I want to show off my beautiful fiancée a little."

Maya's cheeks flushed, and she grinned as she watched Carina finish her makeup. "Alright, you've convinced me. Let's make it a night they won't forget."

Just as Maya and Carina were about to leave, Alex's face began to crumple, his small hands gripping the fabric of Maya's shirt as he looked up at her with wide, anxious eyes. "Mommy, do you really have to go?" he whispered, his voice trembling.

Maya knelt down, gently cupping his face. "Hey, buddy, it's okay. We'll be back soon, I promise," she said softly, brushing her thumb over his cheek. "And you're going to have the best time with Zia Gabrielle. Pizza, cartoons, ice cream… all the things you love. Doesn't that sound fun?"

Alex sniffled, looking uncertain, but nodded slowly. "But… who's going to tuck me in?" he asked, his lower lip trembling.

"I'll make you a deal," Maya said, taking his small hand in hers. "How about I call you right before bed? That way, I can still say goodnight, and you can tell me all about your fun evening."

Alex's eyes brightened a bit at the idea, and he nodded. "Okay, Mommy," he whispered, snuggling into her arms as she hugged him tightly.

Meanwhile, Carina was with Gabrielle in the kitchen, running through the list of ground rules with the same seriousness she'd use on a medical consult. "Okay, so he usually likes one story in English, one in Italian before bed. And no sugar right before bed or he'll be up all night," Carina said, glancing over at Alex as Maya soothed him. She looked back at Gabrielle, her expression softening. "Thank you for this, Gabrielle. I know it's a lot."

Gabrielle chuckled, waving her hand dismissively. "Carina, I raised three younger siblings. I think I can handle one little nephew for an evening. Plus, he's the sweetest thing. We'll be fine." She gave Carina's arm a reassuring squeeze, then headed over to Alex, who was still snuggled close to Maya.

She knelt down beside him, her voice gentle. "Alex, tonight, it's just you and me. And I thought maybe we could build a big fort with all your blankets and watch a movie. How does that sound?"

Alex looked up at her, a small smile finally breaking through his worry. "Can we use all the blankets?" he asked, his voice hopeful.

Gabrielle gasped in mock surprise, her eyes wide. "All the blankets? I think we're going to need all the blankets to make the best fort ever."

Alex giggled, finally letting go of Maya and taking Gabrielle's hand, his excitement starting to replace his earlier sadness. Carina came over, bending down to give Alex a soft kiss on the forehead. "We love you, tesoro. Have fun with Zia Gabrielle, okay? And remember, we'll be back soon."

"Promise?" he asked, looking from Carina to Maya.

"Promise," they both replied, each holding up a pinky for him to link with.

As they pulled out of the driveway, Carina looked out the window, her eyes lingering on the house as they turned onto the street. Her mind was still on Alex, picturing his little face as he held tightly onto Maya, the faint tremble in his voice when he'd asked if they really had to go. She sighed, running a hand through her hair as her worries began to settle in.

Maya noticed the tension in Carina's posture and reached over, gently placing a hand on her thigh. "You okay, amore?" she asked softly, giving Carina a reassuring squeeze.

Carina forced a small smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "I just… I don't know, Maya. Maybe we should stay home. Alex looked so sad when we left, and I don't want him to feel abandoned, especially with everything he's been through lately."

Maya nodded, her gaze soft and understanding. "I get it," she said, keeping her eyes on the road but glancing over at Carina now and then. "It's hard to leave him when he's upset. But he's with Gabrielle—someone he adores and who adores him right back. He's probably building the biggest fort imaginable right now, and I bet he's already forgotten about us leaving."

Carina's lips curved up slightly, but her worry didn't fully dissolve. "I know, and I trust Gabrielle. I really do. It's just… he's our little boy, and it's hard to leave him, especially when I know he needs us."

Maya nodded, understanding completely. "Believe me, I feel the same way. But I think it's good for him to see that he can have fun with other people too, especially someone who loves him like Gabrielle does. And it's good for us to have a night to ourselves. It's been a while, you know?"

Carina sighed, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "You're right. I know you're right. It's just… I always thought I'd have my mom close by, or someone I could rely on like that. But this—this is the first time we're leaving him for a real night out, and I'm probably just being overprotective."

Maya chuckled, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "That's part of what makes you an amazing mom, Carina. But tonight, let's try to enjoy ourselves. And if you're feeling worried, we can check in anytime. Gabrielle won't mind."

Carina took a deep breath, letting Maya's words wash over her, feeling a bit of her anxiety ease. She turned to Maya, her hand resting on top of Maya's as she looked at her with a grateful smile. "Thank you. You always know how to make me feel better."

"That's what I'm here for," Maya replied, flashing her a reassuring smile. "Now, let's go have a drink, dance a little, and remind ourselves that we're more than just parents. We're us, too."

When Maya and Carina stepped into Jo's Bar, they were immediately greeted by a lively mix of familiar faces from Station 19, Station 15, and Grey Sloan Memorial. The place was buzzing with laughter and conversation, the warm, relaxed atmosphere infectious. Maya felt a surge of excitement and pride as she spotted her new Station 15 crew mingling with her Station 19 family, all of them welcoming her as if she'd never left.

Andy waved them over from a table near the back, where she was seated with Vic, Ben, and a few of the Station 15 firefighters. Nearby, Jo and a few doctors from Grey Sloan, including Maggie, Owen, and Amelia, were engaged in a heated conversation over rounds of drinks.

"Maya! Carina! Over here!" Vic called out, her voice bright with enthusiasm as she gestured them over. She nudged Ben, who looked up with a grin, nodding at them both.

Maya squeezed Carina's hand, guiding her over to the table. As they approached, Andy stood up, wrapping Maya in a tight hug. "There she is—the new captain!" she cheered, giving Maya a proud look before giving Carina a warm hug as well. "It's so good to see you two out here tonight. And congrats on the new station, Captain Bishop!"

Maya chuckled, trying to play it cool but feeling a rush of pride. "Thanks, Andy. Couldn't have done it without learning from the best," she teased, nudging Andy with a smile.

Vic leaned in, throwing an arm around Maya's shoulders. "Yeah, yeah, we're all proud, but don't let it go to your head, okay?" she joked, though her grin was warm. "And you've got to introduce us to these Station 15 people of yours."

Maya glanced over at her new team, who were already blending in seamlessly, chatting with some of the Station 19 crew and a few of the doctors from Grey Sloan. She introduced Carina and her friends to each firefighter, sharing a few funny anecdotes and sparking laughter around the table. The camaraderie was easy and welcoming, with everyone trading stories, laughter, and drinks as if they'd been together for years.

Carina quickly fell into conversation with Amelia, who had joined them from the Grey Sloan side of the bar. "So, tell me," Amelia said, sipping her drink with a curious smile. "How are you handling the life of a firefighter's fiancée? I know it's not exactly an easy ride."

Carina laughed, casting a glance at Maya, who was deep in conversation with a couple of her Station 15 crewmates. "It's a bit of a rollercoaster," she admitted. "But Maya's… she's got a way of making it feel worth it, no matter how nerve-wracking it gets."

Meanwhile, Maya was talking with Andy, Ben, and a couple of Station 15 firefighters about some of the wild calls they'd had recently. Andy leaned over, nudging her with a grin. "So, Captain Bishop, you think you can handle two stations full of crazies?"

Maya laughed, shaking her head. "I've had plenty of training with you guys. Trust me, nothing can shock me now."

Maya and Andy found themselves leaning against the bar, drinks in hand, the lively sounds of laughter and chatter around them starting to fade into the background. It was rare that they got a moment like this—to catch up, Captain to Captain.

Maya took a sip of her drink, glancing sideways at Andy. "So, how's life in the big chair?" Andy asked, a grin playing on her lips. "Is it everything you dreamed?"

Maya gave a thoughtful nod, feeling the weight of Andy's words. "It's a lot to carry. Sometimes I look at my team, and it hits me—these are people with lives, with people who love them. And if something happened to them…" She trailed off, her voice catching slightly.

Andy reached out, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Hey, that's why you're a great captain, Maya. You care. You wouldn't feel that weight if you didn't have a huge heart."

Maya offered a small smile, looking down. "Thanks, Andy. But sometimes I wonder if I'm doing enough. Or if I'm doing it right. Station 15… they're a good crew, but it's a different dynamic. I feel like I'm constantly learning them."

Andy nodded, fully understanding the struggle. "You will. Just give it time. When I took over at 19, I felt like I was constantly under a microscope, too. I mean, you guys knew me as just… Andy. And then I was Captain Herrera, and I had to live up to that. It's a balance, being their leader and still being there for them as a person."

Maya's expression softened, her gaze thoughtful. "It's hard to know where to draw the line. Sometimes I think, 'Should I be more by-the-book? Or more laid-back?' But I've started realizing… maybe it's not about following any particular model."

Andy grinned, nodding in agreement. "That's exactly it. You have to make it your own. Sure, there's protocol, but no two captains are the same. You have to lead in a way that feels true to who you are. Otherwise, they'll see right through it."

Maya took a deep breath, letting Andy's words sink in. "You're right. And I guess… I just have to trust that they'll respect me for it. I mean, I've learned from some of the best, right?"

Andy laughed, raising her glass. "You're damn right. You're going to be an incredible captain, Maya. And hey, anytime you need a reminder, I'm here. Captain to Captain."

Maya raised her glass to meet Andy's, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. "Captain to Captain," she echoed with a smile.

Jo brought over another round of drinks, grinning as she slid them onto the table. "It's so good to see everyone together! Feels like old times." She looked around at the mixed group, her smile widening. "Maya, Carina, you two really know how to bring a crowd together."

"Hey, everyone! Come meet Carina!" Maya said as she gathered the Station 15 crew around. "Carina, this is Lila, Ethan, Sam, and the rest of my team."

Just as she was introducing them, Lila stepped forward, her grin bright as she wrapped Maya in an enthusiastic hug. "Captain Bishop! It's good to see you outside of work," she said, giving Maya a friendly squeeze before pulling back.

Maya laughed, patting Lila's shoulder as she glanced back at Carina, who was now regarding Lila with a pointed stare, her brows raised ever so slightly. The subtle fire in Carina's eyes didn't go unnoticed by Maya, who bit back a smirk, feeling a flicker of amusement mixed with pride.

Clearing her throat, Maya tightened her hold on Carina, drawing her closer as she introduced her formally. "Lila, this is my fiancée, Dr. Carina DeLuca," she said, her tone warm but carrying a bit of an edge that Carina instantly noticed.

Lila's expression brightened, and she reached out her hand. "Nice to meet you, Dr. DeLuca. Maya's told us a lot about you."

Carina shook Lila's hand, her own smile warm yet laced with a hint of Italian jealousy. "Likewise, Lila," she replied smoothly, her gaze steady as she held Maya's hand a little tighter. "It's nice to finally meet the people Maya works so closely with."

Ethan, sensing the tension, laughed and jumped in, breaking the moment with a smile. "Well, Captain, you've got good taste in partners. Carina, we're lucky to have your fiancée leading us over at Station 15. She's been a great captain."

Carina's expression softened, her proud smile returning as she glanced up at Maya. "Yes, she's always been extraordinary. I'm proud of everything she's done."

Lila nodded enthusiastically, stepping back and giving Carina a warm smile. "You've got a fantastic fiancée, Dr. DeLuca," she said genuinely, sensing the protective energy Carina radiated. "I can see why she's such an amazing captain—seems like she has an amazing support system."

Maya squeezed Carina's hand, grinning at her with a look that said, "Only you." The subtle tension eased, and Carina finally relaxed, joining in the group's laughter as they all found seats together.

Travis found himself at the bar, where he spotted Ethan leaning against the counter, drink in hand. They exchanged nods before Travis slid over, his usual friendly smile on his face.

"Hey, Ethan," Travis said, settling in beside him. "How's it going? I didn't know you'd make it out tonight."

Ethan looked up, his expression softening as he gave Travis a small smile. "Yeah, I figured I could use a night out. Work's been… well, you know how it is," he said with a chuckle, taking a sip of his drink. "Feels good to see everyone outside of the usual chaos."

Travis nodded, understanding. "Yeah, definitely. Sometimes we get so caught up in the grind, we forget there's life beyond the firehouse and all that adrenaline." He chuckled, glancing around at the crowd. "But this? This is the good stuff. A chance to actually talk, relax."

Ethan let out a sigh, his gaze drifting over the room. "Yeah, I feel like I've been running on fumes lately. Calls, paperwork, training—it never ends." He took another sip, then looked back at Travis, his eyes carrying a hint of vulnerability. "Sometimes I wonder if I'm really cut out for all this."

Travis raised his eyebrows, surprised by Ethan's admission. "Hey, don't say that. You're a solid firefighter, Ethan. One of the best, honestly. I know we don't get a chance to talk much, but… I've seen you on calls. You're steady, reliable, and you know your stuff."

Ethan offered a small smile, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and self-doubt. "Thanks, Travis. That means a lot, really. I just… I guess I'm still finding my place, you know?"

Travis nodded, understanding the sentiment all too well. "Trust me, we all go through that. I think half of us feel like we're still figuring it out, no matter how long we've been doing this." He leaned in slightly, his tone softening. "But you're not alone. And honestly, I think the fact that you even worry about it? That just shows how much you care."

Ethan looked at him, a flicker of warmth in his expression. "You always know what to say, don't you?" he said with a slight laugh. "But seriously, thanks. It's nice to… feel seen."

Travis smiled, his hand resting on Ethan's shoulder briefly. "Anytime. And hey, next time you're feeling this way, don't hesitate to reach out. I've got your back, no matter what."

They shared a comfortable silence, each one sipping their drinks as the noise of the bar carried on around them.

Throughout the night, Carina stayed close to Maya, occasionally resting her hand on Maya's arm or shoulder, a small, possessive gesture that didn't go unnoticed. It was clear to everyone—and especially to Lila—that Maya Bishop was spoken for in every sense.

As the night went on, the bar filled with music and laughter, and the drinks flowed freely. Carina found herself letting loose, enjoying the company of both Maya's old and new teams, and relishing the rare night out together. But no matter how much she tried to relax, her eyes kept drifting back to Lila, who seemed just a little too familiar with Maya.

Every so often, Carina would catch Lila leaning in close, touching Maya's arm, or brushing her shoulder as they spoke. Each touch was subtle, casual enough to seem innocent, but Carina couldn't help feeling a prickle of irritation every time she saw it. Her Italian instincts, usually warm and expressive, were now guarded, observing each interaction with a critical eye.

Maya, ever the friendly and animated leader, seemed oblivious, focused on making sure everyone felt included and part of the group. She laughed, told stories, and shared memories from her time at Station 19, clearly enjoying herself. But whenever Lila drifted a little too close, Carina felt her jaw tighten. Maya being their designated driver had only had a few drinks while Carina had a few glasses of wine.

When a new song came on, Vic grabbed Carina's hand, dragging her to the makeshift dance floor. "Come on, Carina! Let's show them how to really dance!" Vic called, laughing as she spun Carina around. Carina laughed and let herself get swept up in the music, glancing over at Maya, who was watching her with that proud, admiring smile.

But as the song continued, Carina noticed Lila taking the opportunity to slide in beside Maya, her hand landing on Maya's shoulder as she leaned in to say something close to her ear. Carina's laughter faded, her eyes narrowing as she watched. After a few beats, she left the dance floor and made her way back to Maya, her smile firmly in place but her gaze steely.

"Amore, want to join me on the dance floor?" Carina asked, slipping her hand onto Maya's shoulder, her touch unmistakably claiming.

Maya glanced up, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes before a grin spread across her face. "I thought you'd never ask."

Lila took a step back, her hand dropping as Carina moved in beside Maya. Maya noticed Carina's protective stance, sensing the jealousy simmering under her calm exterior, and her grin grew as she allowed herself to be pulled onto the dance floor. Carina wrapped her arms around Maya's waist as they swayed to the music, her eyes daring anyone—especially Lila—to question where Maya's loyalties lay.

Maya leaned down, her voice low, a hint of mischief in her tone. "You're adorable when you're jealous, you know that?"

Carina scoffed, but her lips curved into a smile as she pulled Maya closer. "Jealous? No," she replied smoothly, though her voice softened with affection. "But I am protective of what's mine."

Maya chuckled, brushing a kiss against Carina's forehead. "Good, because I'm not going anywhere."

As the night at Jo's Bar carried on, Carina found herself needing a breather. She excused herself, casting a lingering look back at Maya, who was caught up in another conversation with her crew. Feeling a mix of warmth and excitement, Carina slipped away to the bathroom, hoping for a quiet moment to collect herself.

Just as she was fixing her hair in the mirror, the bathroom door creaked open, and to her surprise, Maya stepped inside, a sly grin on her face.

"Maya, what are you doing?" Carina laughed, her eyes widening.

Maya shrugged, leaning against the door to lock it behind her, her smile playful. "Couldn't let you disappear without me," she teased, stepping closer. "Besides, you looked too good to let you slip away."

Carina's cheeks flushed as she took in Maya's boldness. "You're ridiculous," she murmured, but her smile was unmistakable as Maya wrapped her arms around her waist, pulling her close.

"Hey," Maya began softly, a small, reassuring smile playing on her lips, "you know Lila's harmless, right? She's just a bit… enthusiastic."

Carina raised an eyebrow, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth, though her eyes still held a hint of skepticism. "Harmless, huh?" She let out a soft laugh, crossing her arms. "Amore, she was practically glued to your side tonight."

Maya chuckled, reaching out to wrap her arms around Carina's waist, pulling her close. "Trust me, she's just friendly. Lila's all about bonding with her team, and she probably doesn't even realize she comes off that way."

Carina sighed, resting her hands on Maya's shoulders, though she didn't completely drop her guard. "I'm not usually like this, you know. It's just… seeing someone else touching you like that," she murmured, glancing away for a moment before looking back at Maya, "it made me realize how fiercely I want everyone to know you're mine."

Maya's smile softened, and she lifted a hand to brush a strand of hair from Carina's face, her thumb grazing Carina's cheek. "I get it. But, amore, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. You're the only one I want, and anyone who spends five minutes with us can see that."

Carina's expression relaxed, her eyes softening as she looked at Maya. "You make it so easy to love you," she whispered, leaning in to press a tender kiss to Maya's lips, her earlier jealousy finally melting away.

Carina then stepped forward, trapping Maya against the back of the door. She reaches a hand to the lock and turns it until she hears the click of the locking mechanism. Maya was slightly hesitant trying to figure out what was happening.

"Baby, what are you doing?" Maya questioned.

"I am about to show you, you're mine." Carina panted as she continued to kiss down Maya's neck.

"Carina, we have an entire house with a bed." Maya paused as she felt Carina's hand palm over her dick in her pants. "Carina!"

"What?" Carina asked as she dropped down to her knees and began unzipping Maya's jeans and pulling her quickly hardening cock free from the fabric.

"Carina–" Maya started but then gasped as she felt Carina's lips around the tip of her dick. Carina's mouth closed over Maya's penis, her tongue stroking the head as she began to suck.

Maya's eyes rolled back in her head as she lost herself in the sensation, her hips pumping gently as she fucked Carina's mouth. With each bob Carina took more of Maya into her mouth.

The sensation drove Maya wild. The sounds of the bar faded away, replaced by the sound of Maya's breathing and the slurping of Carina's lips. Maya's hands were tangled in Carina's hair, guiding her and urging her on.

Maya dropped her head back against the door, every now and then dropping her eyes to see Carina bobbing on her cock. Carina then dropped a hand to lightly cup her balls sending Maya even closer to her orgasm,

"Fuck, baby…" Maya panted.

Carina alternated between sucking the tip and running her tongue on the underside of Maya's dick. Carina added her hand, running it up and down Maya's shaft every so often sending Maya higher and higher.

"Baby, I'm close," Maya said in between ragged breaths.

As Carina's mouth worked its magic, Maya felt herself getting closer and closer to the edge, her body trembling with pleasure. And then, with one final suck, she was over the edge, her orgasm exploding. Carina swallowed, her eyes shining with satisfaction as she lifted her head and looked up at Maya. Maya's face washed, her eyes glassy with pleasure, and ownership.

"You're so beautiful when you come," Carina whispered, her voice husky with desire.

Maya smiled, her eyes drifting shut as she leaned against the wall, still shaking with pleasure. "You're beautiful too," she whispered back, her voice barely audible. "I can't believe you just gave me a blow job in Joe's bathroom."

"Amore, I will give you a blow job wherever you want." Carina smirked as she wiped her mouth and unlocked the door as Maya tucked her dick back into her boxers and zipped her jeans.

Maya splashed some water on her face before following Carina out of the bathroom.

As Carina and Maya emerged from the bathroom, they barely took a step before they spotted Amelia leaning against the wall nearby, arms crossed, with a sly grin stretched across her face. It was clear she'd seen them both slip out, and she wasn't going to let this one go without a little teasing.

"Ohhh," Amelia drawled, her eyebrows raised in playful accusation. "What's this? A little covert operation in the ladies' room?" Her gaze shifted knowingly between them, her amusement unmistakable.

Carina, always quick with a comeback, smirked as she brushed her hair back, giving Amelia an equally mischievous look. "A girl has her needs," she replied smoothly, shrugging. "Sometimes you just have to find a private moment with your fiancée."

Maya's eyes widened as she shot a look at Carina, her cheeks flushing a shade deeper. "Carina!" she whispered, half-scandalized but clearly fighting a grin. She let out an embarrassed laugh and glanced at Amelia, feeling caught but enjoying the warmth of Carina's boldness.

Amelia laughed, patting Maya on the shoulder. "Oh, don't worry, Captain Bishop. This is just par for the course for you two. Besides, I completely get it. Some things can't wait," she teased, giving Carina a wink. "You know, Carina, you might just be my hero for keeping Maya on her toes."

Carina chuckled, giving Maya's hand a gentle squeeze as her expression softened with affection. "It's easy when she's my whole world," she said with a smile, her eyes twinkling.

Maya's blush deepened, though her own gaze softened, feeling the weight of Carina's words. With a sheepish grin, she tried to brush off her embarrassment. "Well, I'd better get back to the crew before they think I've abandoned them," she murmured, giving Carina's hand a final squeeze.

As she turned to rejoin Andy and Travis, she heard Amelia calling after them. "Hey, Captain Bishop, don't think you're off the hook! I'll remember this one the next time we're all at Grey Sloan," Amelia teased, sending another wink in Carina's direction.

Maya just laughed, shaking her head as she joined Andy and Travis, who had been watching the scene with a mix of curiosity and amusement.

"Everything alright there, Captain?" Travis asked, grinning as he nudged her. "You look a little… flushed. Carina keeping you busy?"

Maya rolled her eyes, trying to hide her grin. "You're never going to let me live this down, are you?"

Andy laughed, slinging an arm around Maya's shoulders. "Hey, we're just here to support your 'private moments' wherever they happen. Besides, it's nice to see you two so happy together. Carina seems to bring out the best in you."

Maya glanced over her shoulder at Carina, who was talking with Amelia and Vic, her laughter carrying warmly through the bar. There was a glow in her expression that was mirrored in Maya's heart. She nodded, her smile softening as she looked back at Andy and Travis. "She really does."

The rest of the night continued in that easy, joyful rhythm. Maya, more comfortable and confident than ever, found herself constantly glancing over at Carina, as if just being in the same room wasn't quite close enough. Meanwhile, Carina laughed and chatted with Maya's friends, fitting seamlessly into the group as if she'd been a part of their world from the start.

Maya felt the gentle pressure of Carina's hands slide around her waist, pulling her close in a way that sent a warm thrill through her entire body. The world around them—the laughter, the music, the lively bar atmosphere—seemed to dim, leaving just the two of them in a quiet, intimate bubble. Maya closed her eyes as Carina's soft breath brushed her ear, feeling a shiver course down her spine.

"Amore," Carina whispered, her voice tender yet filled with a hint of anticipation, "I'm ready to go."

The words were simple, but the tone in Carina's voice held a world of meaning. Maya's heart beat a little faster as she felt Carina's lips graze the edge of her ear, leaving a warmth that lingered. Turning slightly, Maya met Carina's gaze, her eyes filled with the same unspoken desire and love that she felt in her own heart.

Carina's hands stayed firmly around her waist, pulling her closer as if she didn't want even a breath of space between them. The soft curve of Carina's smile, the way her eyes shone with warmth and a quiet longing, left Maya's heart racing. Maya leaned into her, savoring the closeness, feeling as if time had slowed down just for this moment.

Unable to resist, Maya lifted her hand to Carina's face, letting her fingers trace a gentle line along her jaw. "You're dangerous, you know that?" she murmured, her voice a whisper only Carina could hear.

Carina's smile grew, her own fingers sliding gently up Maya's back, lingering there as she tilted her head, her lips brushing softly against Maya's cheek. "Only for you, amore," she replied, her voice warm and affectionate.

With a gentle tug, Maya turned fully into Carina's embrace, their eyes locking in a gaze that held both warmth and promise. She intertwined her fingers with Carina's, feeling the warmth of her hand, the connection electric as they stood in that shared moment of understanding.

"Let's go," Maya murmured, her voice carrying the softness of a promise.

Hand in hand, they made their way toward the door, slipping quietly from the bar. The cool night air met them as they stepped outside, but Maya hardly felt it. She glanced over at Carina, who looked at her with that familiar look of love and devotion, and she couldn't help but feel as though nothing else in the world mattered.

As they walked down the sidewalk, Carina paused, turning to pull Maya close again, her hands finding their way back around Maya's waist. She leaned in, pressing a slow, tender kiss to Maya's lips, letting all the unspoken words, the promises of love and forever, pass between them. Maya responded, her own hands wrapping around Carina, pulling her in as they shared a kiss that was both gentle and full of the depth of their love.

They pulled away slowly, foreheads resting against each other, breaths mingling in the quiet of the night. Maya smiled, brushing a thumb along Carina's cheek. "Home?" she asked softly, her voice filled with warmth.

Carina nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Home," she echoed, her eyes filled with love.