I set my phone down, hoping I’ve made some progress with Jayden. Dylan deserves to feel accepted. And I aim to make that happen, no matter what it takes. Even if it means standing up to my stubborn friend.
I usually don’t get involved in team politics or take sides. But for some reason, I feel drawn to Dylan.
Maybe it’s because her situation reminds me a bit of my own past. When I first joined the rugby team, I was an outsider too. The hazing and teasing was relentless until I proved my worth on the field. It was a lonely, isolating time.
I see that same look in Dylan’s eyes—that deep hunger to belong. She’s trying so hard to fit into the team, taking any insult or joke with forced laughter.
I know that feeling of never quite measuring up. Of having to work twice as hard just to be seen as an equal.
And I’m a giant man, the stereotypical image of a professional rugby guy. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to add on being a woman. I can only imagine a huge deal of frustration and, at some point, a certain resignation that we’re all stuck within an entrenched, misogynistic framework that will take years or decades to shift. Not that I’d ever say any of this out loud.
Or maybe it’s more than that.
There’s an intensity about Dylan that intrigues me. She seems to wear a tough exterior, but I sense a vulnerability underneath.
When we talk, her emerald eyes bore into mine with startling focus. Her quick wit and sarcastic humor make me want to banter with her for hours.
She makes me feel energized, alive, as if I have to be on high alert to keep up with her witty sneak attacks.
She knows how to pester and prod, but in an intellectual way that’s hard to poke holes in. And, as I think about it, I realize that I love every second of it.
I shake my head, confused by my own tangled emotions. I barely know this girl. Yet I feel oddly drawn to her in a way I can’t fully explain.
All I know for sure is that I want to protect Dylan from harm. I want to see her thrive and succeed here.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen.
Chapter 16
Dylan
Iwalkintothetraining room and stop short when I see her. A petite blonde whirlwind in hot pink yoga pants and a “Girls Run the World” tank top practically bounces up to me, her ponytail swinging halfway down her back.
“You must be Dylan! I’m Loretta, the team physical therapist. So great to finally meet you!” She pumps my hand enthusiastically. I’m actually shocked by her grip, given her size. Any firmer, and I might need physical therapy.
Before I can respond, a tall brunette in a crisp pantsuit strides over. “And I’m Keeley, the PR manager.” Her handshake is brisk, but her smile is warm. “We are so thrilled you’ve joined us this season!”
“Thanks, me too,” I say, still a bit stunned by their exuberance.
Loretta claps her hands. “Aren’t you just going to take this team by storm? I can feel it!”
“We need someone with your talent and experience,” Keeley agrees. “I can already envision all the great coverage we’ll get with you leading the forward pack.”
Their confidence buoys me. No veiled agendas or political mind games—just genuine excitement at my arrival.
I can’t help but grin back. It’s the first time I’ve been in an all-female leadership team, and I don’t even know how to explain how the energy just feels different. Not that I mind being around a group of testosterone-charged men, of course. It’s just nice to have this experience.
Based on what I’ve seen so far, I have a feeling that maybe this time will genuinely be different. A fresh start, and my chance to finally prove myself on a team that truly wants me.
Loretta’s enthusiasm is infectious as she chatters on about her passion for bringing women’s rugby into the spotlight. “The women’s game has come so far, but it still doesn’t get the respect or attention it deserves compared to the men,” she says, her green eyes flashing with conviction. “That’s why I love working with this team—helping pave the way for the future!”
I nod, impressed by her dedication. “So you sought out working with a women’s rugby squad?”
“Absolutely!” Loretta laughs. “When I first moved to the city, I figured I’d be working with big, burly dudes. But then I discovered this team and never looked back. The sisterhood and spirit here are like nothing I’ve ever experienced. In fact, the club is so passionate about progressing the women’s team—I’m sure that’s part of why you took your position here…”. She pauses, and I nod. “We actually get to try out some of the most progressive rehabilitation techniques in the world before the men’s team.”
I quirk a brow, not wanting to dampen her enthusiasm by pointing out it sounds like the women’s team may be being used as guinea pigs for trial treatments.
She squeezes my bicep playfully. “And don’t worry, I’ll have those muscles of yours in tip-top shape in no time!”