Page 136 of Instigator

“I brought seven-layer dip,” he announces.

“You didn’t have to bring anything. I’ve got it covered.”

Mainly because he dropped off a ton of food earlier today. I certainly wasn’t about to cook for these assholes. It’s bad enough they’re in my private space when they don’t have to be.

But this is for Ceci. She wants to get to know my teammates better, especially since she’s friends with so many of their partners. So I guess I can deal for a few hours.

Tyler scoffs. “I’m not about to show up empty-handed. And I figured the guys didn’t need more alcohol this close to the final playoff push.”

We’re one point away from the wild card slot in the standings. There are still plenty of games left in the season, but every game counts, and we can’t afford to slack off now.

“I appreciate that.”

Brandon lets Ainsley down, taking hold of her little hand. “Well, come on, then. Introduce us.”

They’re already part of the greater team family, so they know everyone—except for Colt and Ceci.

To my surprise, it’s Colt and Robby who beeline for them.

“Hey, Ty,” Robby says, greeting his ex with a strong handshake and a half hug. “It’s good to see you.” He immediately steps back and reaches for Colt’s hand. “This is my boyfriend, Colton Phillips.”

Tyler grins, no sign of jealousy or resentment on his face. “Nice to meet you. You finally locked this one down?”

I don’t know that I’d be so chill about meeting my partner’s ex. Though I’m glad they have a decent relationship now. I definitely wouldn’t be cordial with Ceci’s ex-husband. I’m not a fighter, but I’d have no qualms about punching that bastard in the face for what he put her through.

Colt blushes. “Something like that.”

Robby presses a kiss to his cheek. “You totally have.”

“I’m happy for you, Rob,” Tyler says. “Both of you.” He reaches for his husband. “And hey, now we can finally double-date.”

My face scrunches up, and I look between them. “You would do that? Double-date with your ex?”

To my surprise, Brandon laughs. “Rob is part of our family. What happened between them is in the past, and that’s where it’s going to stay. Just because a relationship isn’t romantic doesn’t mean the love goes away. And we could all use a little more love in our lives.”

I consider that. “True…”

“If I didn’t trust Ty, our marriage wouldn’t work,” he says simply. “All relationships are based on mutual trust and respect. It won’t survive without it.”

My gaze flits to Ceci, who’s across the room with Hailey and Bex. A wave of affection rushes through me. Mutual trust and respect. We have that in spades.

As if feeling my eyes on her, Ceci looks up—and then she looks behind me, and she lets out a shriek.

“What’s wrong?” at least three people ask.

My girl beelines to us, still lingering in the entryway. She’s at my side in an instant, reaching for my hand automatically. I lace our fingers together, indulging in the simple pleasure of holding her hand.

“Holy fruitcake,” she blurts. “You’re Brandon Walker.”

“Be cool,” I murmur into her ear, breathing in her scent.

“How can I be cool when Brandon freaking Walker is here?” Her voice comes out high-pitched and squeaky.

He cracks up laughing. “I’m just a normal dude.”

“She’s kind of a baseball nut,” I explain.

“It’s nice to meet you,” he says, offering his hand.