Between the Lines

Trustworthy

*Alex*

The locker room was quieting down as the last of the guys finished up their post-game routines. I pulled on a pair of sweatpants and a hoodie, trying to shake off the lingering frustration from earlier. Coach benching me had been a wake-up call, and I wasn't about to make the same mistake twice. I grabbed my bag, ready to head out, when a few of the lads wandered over.

"Oi, Alex!" Jamie called out, grinning like the cat that got the cream. "We're heading out for a few drinks to celebrate the win. You coming?"

I shook my head, trying to stay firm. "Nah, I'm out tonight. Gotta keep my head straight. That's why Coach benched me in the first place."

"Come on, mate," Liam chimed in, slinging an arm around my shoulder. "We're not talking about clubbing, just a couple of pints at the pub nearby. Low-key, nothing crazy."

"Yeah, Alex," Jamie added. "Just a few drinks. We earned it tonight, didn't we? What's the harm?"

I hesitated, glancing between them. The truth was, I could use a drink. Something to take the edge off, to help me relax after the day's rollercoaster. And they were right—it wasn't like we were hitting the clubs. A quiet night at a pub sounded harmless enough.

"Alright," I relented, "but just for a bit. No all-nighters."

The guys cheered, clapping me on the back as we headed out. I pulled a hat down low over my face and slipped on a pair of sunglasses. The last thing I needed was to be recognized and have photos splashed all over the tabloids tomorrow.

The pub wasn't far from the stadium, just a short walk away. It was packed, the lively chatter spilling out onto the street. As we made our way inside, I scanned the room, keeping my head down. That's when I spotted her—Brianna, the reporter from earlier.

She was standing near the bar, laughing with a group of people I assumed were her crew. My eyes trailed down, taking in her tight jeans and slightly unbuttoned white shirt. She looked different, more relaxed than she had on the field. The thought crossed my mind—she was hot. And that outfit... it did things.

Josh followed my gaze and let out a low whistle. "Isn't that the reporter who grilled you earlier? What's her name again?"

"No idea," I lied, smirking as I thought of her name. Brianna suited her, but I wasn't about to let Josh know that. "But she's with Premier League Sports. Pretty feisty too."

I couldn't help myself. I edged closer, weaving through the crowd until I was right behind her. "Didn't expect to see you here, darling," I said, keeping my tone light. "Following me, are you?"

She turned, her eyes narrowing slightly when I took off my hat and glasses. "You wish," she replied coolly, not the least bit fazed.

"Come on now, admit it. You can't get enough of me," I teased, hoping to crack her icy demeanor. She looked like she'd had a few drinks, the edges of her sharpness softened just a bit.

"Dream on," she retorted, her tone still sharp but with a slight slur to it.

"Feisty as ever," I chuckled, leaning in a little closer. "So, can I call you Bri?"

She frowned, shaking her head. "No. It sounds like Brie cheese, and I hate Brie cheese."

That caught me off guard, and I laughed. "Brie cheese, huh? That's what bothers you?"

"It's gross," she muttered, her lips twisting in distaste.

"I don't know," I said, grinning wider. "I think it suits you. You're just like a good cheese."

She just rolled her eyes and took another sip of her drink. "You're ridiculous."

"Maybe," I agreed, still grinning. "But I think I'll stick with Bri."