Sat in the pub, my tiredness began to catch up to me and I listened to the others chat around me more than I talked.

I have no idea how long Miguel’s hand was on my leg before I jolted fully awake and accidentally knocked it off.

Damn it, his warm large hand felt so good clasping my thigh!

On the other side of the table from us, Cap said, “Stiffy, if you’re that tired, shall we head for an earlier train?”

“That’s alright DD, I don’t want to cut your evening short just because I’m tired. I can always grab a train on my own.” I replied while covering my yawn.

Yawning back, Cap said, “I’ve got a big end of week tomorrow too, so could do with an early night. Plus I wouldn’t feel right leaving you alone when you’re so out of it.”

“I’m all good.”

Raising a blonde brow, Cap asked, “do you always lean on your friends’ shoulders like that when you’re with it?”

Argh! When did I start leaning on Miguel like he was a pillow?

With forced bravado I replied, “not any old friend, but I do lean on my hubby’s shoulder when I’m sleepy.” Seeing Cap’s brows furrow I joked, “sorry, too much PDA for you single dogs?”

Cap’s smile didn’t entirely reach his eyes, “don’t take this joking too far, I don’t want you to hurt each other’s feelings through this teasing.”

I turned to Miguel and took the opportunity to put my hand on his broad chest, oh fuck his pecks are beautifully curved!

“You don’t mind me being your joke wife, do you?”

Covering my hand with his own, Miguel replied, “I like you being my wife.”

Oh man, his eyes are so captivating as he looks deep into my soul. Love me! Please love me!

Tearing my eyes away from Miguel, without moving my hand I said as casually as I could to Cap, “see, we are all good.”

Cap hummed, “OK but don’t take it too far.”

“Yes DD.” We both chorused.

After a moment, that felt like a glorious lifetime, Miguel removed his hand and I dropped mine back down.

Yawning yet again I rose, “that all said, I think I should head back, work is not likely to get any less hectic this week.”

Looking up at me with a soft smile, Miguel asked, “do you want me to walk you to the station? You really do seem out of it, and I need to get back to cook for my sister.”

“Nah, no need to escort me, it’s all good, my little nap combined with the cold night air should wake me up.” I said and patted his shoulder to reassure him... honest, not because I wanted to feel that powerful broad shoulder that had slammed me to the floor...

Sliding back his chair as I moved between the tables, Cap said, “I'll head back with you.” He let out a yawn too, “I’m burning the candle both ends trying to get a new job.”

“Alright, see you guys Sunday.”

After saying our goodbyes and trying to not let my gaze linger on Miguel, who gave me an aggrieved look, Cap and I headed out.

As we walked we talked about training and how to improve everyone’s skills.

Cap asked, “is there anything you have noticed about Miguel’s tackles?”

No! Am I getting really ahead of myself? Does Miguel touch everyone like he does me? If he does, that’s messed up.

I told him he could touch me and I’m obviously signalling that I want him to, but I can almost guarantee the others aren’t.

“No, I didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary; but he hits really hard so it’s not the easiest to notice the nuances. Did you notice anything?” I said and nervously awaited Cap’s reply.

“No, his tackles are textbook. I just sometimes wonder if he is aiming for me and you when we are on the opposite side to him.” A chuckle left Cap’s lips, “and your right, he really does hit hard!”

OK so if Miguel’s tackles are normal on Cap, he is not touching anywhere inappropriate on him, phew.

When I got home I was surprised to see a message.

Miguel: are you home safe?

Aw, he is worried about me.

Jonathan: yeah, I just got in.

Miguel: OK, sleep well.

Wow that was a quick reply, does that mean he’s not in the pub anymore?

Jonathan: not going to be a problem. Don’t have too much fun drinking without me.

Miguel: was no fun here without you, so I headed home after you left with DD.

Woo hoo! He left the pub because I wasn’t there?! Eeee so good!

Jonathan: sorry I couldn’t stay and amuse you more, see you Sunday.

Miguel: good night.