With my guys around me, the long nights ahead no longer seem so bleak.
Chapter 52
Dylan
Thecozylivingroomcomes into focus as Noah and Jayden gently guide me inside. I sink into the plush recliner they’ve positioned by the window, my leg elevated on a pile of pillows.
“There you go, Dylan. We’ve got you all set up,” Noah says, his strong hands lingering on my shoulders.
Killian appears holding a tray of snacks and drinks. “Thought you could use a little refreshment after the journey home.” He winks, setting the tray on the side table within my reach.
I glance around, taking in the personal touches they’ve added to make this space feel more like home than a frat house a tornado just ran through—photos of all of us, including Kai, on the walls. A soft blanket, my favorite books.
“You guys... you didn’t have to do all this.” I feel a swell of emotion.
“Of course we did. We’re your team now. We’re your home,” Jayden says gently.
My phone chimes with a message from Kai. I smile as I read it aloud: “‘Sending you sunny vibes to brighten your day as much as you brighten mine.’” I grin at the guys. “Even from halfway across the world, he finds a way to make me feel close to him.”
“That’s our Kai. The man is smitten,” Noah chuckles.
“Clearly. And I don’t mind one bit.” I grin, already anticipating our nightly video call. Kai’s constant encouragement has been a guiding light through all of this. With my guys surrounding me, and Kai’s presence felt even from afar, I know I’ll get back on my feet in no time.
Over the next few days, we settle into a comfortable routine. I’m never alone—one of the guys is always here, keeping me company.
Noah queues up my favorite movies, beats me soundly at video games, and runs potential rugby plays past me. He listens carefully, taking notes and adjusting several of his intended strategies for the upcoming away game.
Jayden challenges me to games like Battleship on our phones, and reads aloud from some of the new books he brought, his smooth voice lulling me into relaxation. At one point, I have to ask him to stop putting on funny voices because it makes me laugh so much my neck starts hurting again.
Killian keeps me well-fed, preparing healthy, delicious meals and making sure I never have to reach far for a snack or drink. He also provides daily updates on some of the animals we met at the shelter, several who have been adopted like we so badly wished for. He even makes an effort with Jonah, who has developed a habit of jumping up on his lap just about every time he sits down.
Their combined care and attention surrounds me like a warm blanket. Several large, muscly blankets of men, so different from each other except for their joint love of rugby and, well… me.
Kai’s thoughtful gifts arrive daily in the mail—sweet dried fruits from his homeland, a book on mental techniques for healing, a soft knit blanket in my favorite color made especially for me by his aunties. Each night, his face lights up my phone screen and his deep, resonating voice fills my ears, providing a sense of closeness despite the distance.
“Just saw your latest pic, you’re looking stronger every day hot stuff,” he says during one call. “Can’t wait to see that beautiful smile in person.”
I feel myself blushing. “Thanks to you and the guys here, I’m starting to feel more like myself.”
“We’ll get you back out on the field in no time,” he assures me. With my team here, and Kai’s unwavering support, I know he’s right. Each day, my strength returns a little more, and thoughts of our future adventures keep me motivated. With these amazing men surrounding me, I know I’ll come back stronger than ever.
I nod along as Kai describes the latest match he watched, trying to focus on his words instead of how much I miss being out on the field.
“You’ll be back in the heart of the scrum before you know it,” he says gently, noticing my wistful expression.
“I know, I just feel so useless right now,” I sigh.
Later, as the guys and I relax after dinner, I can’t hide my sadness.
“What’s wrong?” Noah asks.
“I just miss rugby so much,” I admit. “It’s hard feeling sidelined.”
Killian jumps up. “I’ve got just the thing to get your mind back in the game,” he says, pulling out a strategy board game. “Let’s put that strategic brain of yours to work!”
I can’t help but smile as the guys gather around the table. Their enthusiasm is contagious. We play late into the night, laughter and friendly taunts filling the air.
The next evening, Kai suggests a virtual watch party for an upcoming match. Surrounded by my teammates, their cheers and commentary make me feel like I’m really there.