Page 86 of The Break Down

Everything’s polished.

The uniforms.

The branding—special thanks to my woman.

The promo banners with our faces blown up like we’re goddamn superheroes.

Tank keeps calling himself “the franchise” now. Might have to punch him later.

But right now?

Right now, I’ve got one focus.

Her.

Finley’s on the sideline, clipboard in hand, radio in her ear, fidgeting like she might actually vibrate out of her own skin.

Her new assistant is buzzing around her. She’s directing the younger woman like a general.

But I can see it. Her nerves.

Today isn’t just the team’s debut.

It’s hers.

Her first big event idea is a good one.

ABachelor Auction Galaand the reveal is today.

How she managed to put together an idea for a fundraiser where the players will be “sold” for a one-night-only date, and all to support local kids and rugby programs in just a few days, I have no idea.

It’s amazing. But so is she. And I am one lucky SOB.

It makes me grin. The fellas getting auctioned off like meat in tight polos.

It’s a smart idea. Clever. Eye-catching. So her.

And also?

Thank Christ I’m not in it.

Perks of being the most publicly claimed man in the league, save for our coach.

I’m officially off the menu.

But I know she’s nervous.

Because even though it’s brilliant, she’s afraid the team won’t take it seriously.

That the fans will eat her alive.

That she won’t be seen as a professional woman with a sharp mind. Just some rugby girlfriend tagging along with her famous boyfriend and a camera.

Finley shouldn’t feel that way.

But she does. And I hate it.

So tonight? I’m going to show her—and everyone watching—exactly who she is to me.

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