Chapter 32
The pulsing beat vibrates through my body as we step back into the main room of the crowded club. Neon lights flash in time with the music, illuminating the sleek minimalist decor and packed dance floor. My senses are overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and smells—gyrating bodies, the DJ’s booming playlist, cloying perfume mixing with the tart sting of alcohol in the air.
My body is a combination of tingly and numb, and I still can’t quite believe what we just did right there in the club.
“Welcome—officially—to our usual haunt. It’s new, but it has the best cocktails in town,” Jayden leans in close to be heard over the din. “Looks like you’re the star tonight.”
I glance around self-consciously as heads turn our way, drawn like magnets to Jayden and the other guys beside me. Their athletic physiques and casual confidence attract female attention wherever we go. Jayden smirks, confident in our clandestine knowledge of what just took place between us.
“Seems like everyone knows you guys,” I reply, still not used to being in their orbit. Back home, I was the odd one out, the jock girl in a family of academics. But with this club and my team, I finally feel seen, appreciated for my talents on the field. The female rugby player in a room full of sharks part is totally new, however.
As we weave deeper into the club, women approach with flirtatious smiles and sultry looks. But the guys deftly angle their bodies around me, a subtle message that I’m their focus tonight.
The attention is equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. I don’t want a repeat of what happened with my old team, pushed aside due to petty club politics. This time has to be different.
I was so focused on my roommates—Jayden in particular—that I didn’t really notice the other women watching us when we first got here. But now, it’s hard to miss their made-up faces that tighten into envious scowls as the guys fawn over me.
“Isn’t she that rugby chick?” one says loudly. “Kind of bulky for a dress like that, don’t you think?”
Her friend smirks. “Maybe she should’ve worn a jersey instead. More her style.”
I clench my fists, the dig at my athletic build stinging. Great, not only do I have to navigate this new club, but also dodge catty comments. Just what I needed.
Before I can respond, a drunk girl staggers up and deliberately spills her cocktail all over me. I gasp as the cold liquid splashes down my front.
“Oops, did I do that?” she snickers. “Clumsy me. Maybe this will cool you down, honey.”
I bite my tongue, willing myself to stay calm. “Real mature. Accidents happen, but you should watch where you’re going next time.”
My hands tremble with anger and embarrassment. But I won’t let their petty jealousy ruin this night. The guys want me here, and value me for exactly who I am. I may not be the skinniest person in the room, but since when has that been my goal? I have curves and I’m strong.
This body of a club-level rugby hooker didn’t just happen overnight. It took a lot of tenacity and persistence, and long mornings of strength training.
I straighten my back and lift my chin. We’re just getting started.
Noah steps forward, his eyes flashing. “That’s enough,” he says in a low, firm voice to the woman who spilled her drink. “We’re here to have a good time, not start trouble. You should leave before this gets worse for you.”
Killian and Jayden close ranks around me, blocking the spiteful girls from view.
“Here, take my jacket,” Killian says gently, draping it over my shoulders to cover the stain. “Don’t let her ruin your night. She’s not worth it.”
Jayden grins, lightening the mood with his infectious charm. “Yeah, let’s show these drama queens how we really enjoy ourselves!”
I smile back, the guys’ support washing away my anger. We won’t let petty drama distract us from having an amazing time together.
“Thanks, I needed that reminder,” I say.
Noah loops his arm through mine. “Come on, let’s head to the VIP section. Drinks are on me.”
I let him guide me away, the others trailing behind. In the more exclusive area, the atmosphere is elevated but cozy.
We claim a plush booth and the guys insist I relax while they grab the first round.
When they return, Noah passes me my favorite cocktail—a Naked and Famous. It’s a gorgeous orange color, and a potent mix of smoky mezcal, bitter aperol, herbaceous chartreuse and lime. I don’t drink often because… well, rugby… but when I do, this is my drink of choice. “To our unshakeable team,” he toasts.
“Sláinte!” the others chorus. Everyone gets a little more Irish when they’re drinking, I reckon.
The drinks and lively company lift my spirits. We chat and joke easily, the earlier confrontation already fading.
On the dance floor, Noah pulls me close. Our bodies sway in sync as the music pulses through us. Under the swirling lights, I meet his intense gaze. In this moment, I’ve never felt more wanted or more protected.
After a few songs, Jayden cuts in, twirling me theatrically. “No hogging our star player!” he winks, the other guys oblivious to what transpired earlier between us.
I laugh, intoxicated by the attention. With these guys, I finally feel seen—not just for my athletic skills, but for me. As the night winds down, their fierce loyalty and support fill me with joy.
This is exactly where I’m meant to be.
The remainder of the evening flies by in a blur of dancing, drinking, and easy camaraderie. Before I know it, the lights are coming up and last call is announced.
“I guess that’s our cue,” Noah says, helping me to my feet. The effects of one too many cocktails make me unsteady, and he grips my waist to support me. But I’m not worried about loosened inhibitions—with these guys, it’s like having three gigantic bodyguards ready to fend off anyone unsavory.
“Let’s roll out, team,” Jayden calls.
We gather our things and head for the exit. The cold night air hits my flushed cheeks. Noah keeps his arm around me as we walk to the car.
“That was epic,” Killian grins. “We definitely owned that club tonight.”
“All thanks to our secret weapon,” Jayden winks at me.
I smile, warmed by their praise. “I should be thanking you guys. For having my back in there.”
“Anytime,” Noah reassures me. “We look out for our own.”
Their words kindle a glow in my chest. With these fierce, loyal men by my side, I feel I can handle anything thrown my way.
We pile into the car, trading laughs and stories from the crazy night. The earlier drama is long forgotten, erased by the bonds we’ve strengthened.
As I glance at each of them, my heart swells with gratitude and maybe something more. This isn’t just the alcohol talking.
Right now, I’m more certain than ever that this is where I belong.