Page 267 of By His Play

Kieran: You’re a funny motherfucker. Heading to the gym. See you soon.

Brax: Surprised you have the energy for that.

When I eventually pull out of the space I shouldn’t have been parked in, I’ve got a huge smile on my face, and just like I told Effie in my message, my boner is tenting my sweats.

Fuck.

How the hell am I meant to get rid of that when my head is full of her?

The drive to the stadium is short, and after having a few firm words with myself, I’m able to climb out of the car without giving anyone an eyeful.

“Ah, there he is,” Brax says loudly as I walk into the gym.

He turns all eyes on me, letting everyone see the sappy smile that I know is playing on my lips. I can’t fucking help it.

Brax walks over and gives me a guy hug, his fist slamming against my back.

“I’m so fucking happy and relieved for you, man.”

“What’s going on?” Easton asks, stepping up to us with a curious look on his face.

“Kieran and Effie, that’s what’s going on,” Brax explains for me.

“Oh, shit. Really?” he asks, his eyes wide.

“Yeah,” I confess, rubbing the back of my neck.

“That’s awesome, man. So, is the next engagement announcement going to be legit?”

“Yep,” I state confidently.

“Oh my god, you’re already planning it,” Brax says as a few others come over to join us.

“Might be,” I say nonchalantly.

“Congrats, man,” Jamie says with what almost looks like a smile on his face. “I hope it works out for you.”

I nod at him, and he retreats again to the weights bench.

“I can’t believe after everything you’ve said about relationships and being tied down that you’re about to dive in headfirst,” Easton points out.

He’s not wrong. Watching other teammates with wives and girlfriends is terrifying. The thought of being one of them is equally scary. But knowing that it’s Effie who’s going to be by my side makes it so much easier to picture.

She knows me better than anyone. She knows my job, my schedule, and everything that’s expected of me. She’s always aware of what the media is capable of.

Unease twists in my gut.

There have been some brutal things said about her online since the news broke about our fake engagement and then the “truth” that followed.

I can only imagine what this next chapter of our lives is going to cause.

But I’ll protect her with everything I have.

Once the guys have had their fill of gossip, we get to work.

Preseason is still a while away, but they’re all as eager to have an even stronger season as I am.

We made the playoffs last year. But this year…with Effie by my side, we’re going to go all the way. I can feel it.

---