18. Deacon
Iroll over and reach for Brynlee to pull her against me, but cold, empty sheets meet my touch instead of my warm, willing wife.
Fuck . . . my wife.
I’m not sure that’s something I thought I’d say again in my life, but there’s something about it that causes a visceral reaction somewhere deep in my soul that makes no fucking sense.
I reach over to catch the time on my phone but see a missed text from Brynlee instead.
Brynlee
Looks like our secret is safe, husband. The Kroydon Kronicles is running with a story about you being named head coach. They don’t even realize it was probably leaked by the Revolution on purpose.
Deacon
You snuck out without saying goodbye, wife.
Brynlee
Nope. I said goodbye and kissed you too. You tried to tug me back down, but I had to get home and get changed. I have a player coming into the office this morning.
Deacon
Who?
Brynlee
Who... Do you mean which player has an appointment?
Deacon
I mean what man did you leave our bed for?
Brynlee
Daniels.
I run through my mental checklist of the team roster until I place Daniels. He’s a few years older than me with a wife and three daughters. But he’s still going to be skating the boards until he pukes for the entire first week of practice because he’s the poor fuck who pulled Brynlee out of my bed this morning.
Deacon
I thought you were off today.
Brynlee
I was, but he messaged me yesterday and asked if I could help him today. Then I promised my mom I’d meet her for coffee. After that, I have to pick up Winnie from Gracie. I promise I’ll be back before Isla and Kennedy get there.
Deacon
Your bringing Winnie to my house?
Brynlee
Yeah. I thought she might help with Kennedy. And before you say it, I’m well aware I’m using my dog to get your daughter to like me.
Shit. Does she like dogs?
My crazy girl.
Deacon
Yeah, red. She likes dogs. Do you need me to order anything for Winnie?
Brynlee
Nope. I’ve got everything I need. She’s a very portable puppy. Just don’t leave your shoes lying around. She’s teething.
Deacon
Whatever you say, wife.
Brynlee
See you soon.