Always There: Rugby Brothers, #1

By Tiara Inserto

Two top athletes, both with world titles in their sights. The one thing they didn't aim for was each other... 

Liana Murphy has a plan: take the manager's job in New Zealand, show the world a woman can lead a men's soccer team, and qualify for the most elite competition in the world. Simple, right? She wasn't called 'The Queen of Football' for nothing. But when Liana is forced to share an apartment with the 'King of Rugby,' her recipe for success is put to the test. With all the world watching, failure isn't an option.

Mitch Molloy let the World Championship slip through his grasp four years ago. Now, redemption for the Kiwi team captain lies in winning the title on his home turf. This last victory will seal his legacy. All he needs to do is dedicate himself entirely and eliminate anything that could pull his focus. When a friend asks Mitch for a favor, he finds himself unexpectedly sharing his condo with ambitious Liana Murphy. As kindred spirits, their attraction is undeniable. But are their careers calling louder than their hearts? 

While falling for each other might be easy, juggling the demands of their dreams proves harder than either expected...

This is a clean, slow-burn, contemporary sports-romance featuring seasoned characters.

Disclosure: some content may be triggers for sensitive readers. Please visit my website for details.

• Language: English
• Publisher: OVLE Publishing
• Release date: Sep 25, 2018
• ISBN: 9781949823028

Tiara Inserto

Tiara Inserto lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and four children. Born in Singapore, she is a graduate of Marymount College (Palos Verdes), the University of San Francisco, and Exeter University. “Always You” is her second novel. 

Book preview

ALWAYS THERE

By

Tiara Inserto

Copyright 2018 by TIARA INSERTO. All rights are reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner without written permission except in the case of brief quotations used in articles or reviews.

ALWAYS THERE is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons living or dead, actual events, places, incidents, or organizations is coincidental.

ISBN-978-1-949823-02-8

––––––––

Cover design by Llewellen Designs

Edited and Formatted by Self-Publishing Services LLC.

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www.SelfPublishingServices.com

For my family.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

EPILOGUE

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CHAPTER ONE

Auckland, New Zealand, June 2011

He knew her face.

He had seen it often enough in magazines and on TV, but now that she was in front of him, he could appreciate firsthand the classical features of a woman who was aging so gracefully, she seemed to defy time. She was a beauty. Maybe not in an obvious way, but it was real: glossy black hair, olive skin, smiling dark-brown eyes. Always smiling eyes. That was what he remembered most watching her as she worked as a commentator during the last World Cup. She lit up the screen.

Right now, those eyes had the full attention of two of his teammates. Mitch stopped in his tracks, trying to decide whether he should introduce himself immediately or wait. It was an unfamiliar feeling, being indecisive. He was used to making up his mind and moving forward.

Mitch had seen her the moment he’d entered the ballroom. A scattering of applause at his entrance—no doubt because of the recent announcement of a new award—had drawn her gaze to him. They had made eye contact. She’d nodded in acknowledgment, then smiled that famous smile. He could only nod in return before being pulled into the embrace of his hostess, Lady Meryl Holstein. That had been thirty minutes ago. Ever since, he’d been caught up in the usual swirl of handshakes and salutations from familiar acquaintances, but his eyes would often drift to her figure.

He should make his way to her and welcome her properly to New Zealand. If what he had read was correct, she would have just arrived. It’d be an acceptable thing to do. After all, he was the captain of New Zealand’s most-famous sporting team.

But this was Liana Murphy, said a nagging voice that betrayed an insecurity he had forgotten existed. Liana Murphy wasn’t just anybody.

Mate, you cleaned up well!

Mitch almost let out a sigh of relief at the sound of his best friend’s voice. It silenced the questions going through his head.

You’ve been saying that for ten years. Why is it always a surprise? Mitch asked, shaking Connor Dane’s hand.

Because, usually, I see you covered in dirt and bruises, and always in that old sweatshirt, Connor replied good-naturedly. Did I see you come in with Elaine? Are you two back together?

Mitch shook his head. Connor raised his eyebrows, curiosity etched on his handsome face.

She already bought the dress, Mitch said.

Ah, of course. She already bought the dress.

A month ago, when he spoke to Elaine about ending their relationship, she asked for an explanation. He’d told her the truth: it was because he wanted to focus on the upcoming World Championship. He couldn’t have any distractions.

She’d agreed without any hysterics or tears. It was the smoothest breakup he had ever been through. But that was Elaine, logical and undramatic. Those were a couple of the reasons he had been attracted to her initially. So, when she asked if she could still come to the End of Winter Ball, Mitch didn’t think twice before agreeing. They could remain friends. Why not?

Mitch glanced around the room and spotted his date laughing with someone he thought he should recognize. Then again, every face in the ballroom was familiar. The event attracted the Who’s Who of New Zealand sports, entertainment, and politics. For a large social event, it was one of the better ones. The presence of his fellow athletes did much to put him at ease, but he still wished he was home in a pair of shorts and his favorite sweatshirt.

Connor, on the other hand, looked like he was born in a black tuxedo. Before rugby, teenage Connor had been a model, following in his famous mother’s footsteps. As a professional athlete, he had no problems facing a sea of photographers and was a marketing person’s dream client. Connor never took a bad picture, even when there was blood pouring out of his nose.

On paper, they were both equally fast on the field, but while Mitch was built like a truck, Connor moved like a gazelle. Some reporters called him the Federer of the rugby world. Mitch would joke that the opposition was sometimes so mesmerized by how fluid Connor looked that they forgot to tackle him. He was easily the team’s most popular player in the gossip magazines, but, more importantly, he was their top scorer.

Have you made your rounds yet? Connor asked, scanning the busy room.

Mitch accepted a pint of beer from a passing waitress. Just the minister and his wife. Said hello to the coach and a couple of the fellas. Also smiled for the cameras with some of the Black Sticks.

"Just you and our women national hockey players?

Yeah.

Was Elaine in the picture?

No.

Connor threw his head back in a loud laugh. Well, that’s definitely going to be on the front page somewhere!

Yeah, well, you marrying left me on the chopping blocks with the gossip magazines, Mitch said. Mum is constantly ringing to see if the latest story is true. She actually felt it necessary to lecture me on the importance of fidelity.

I won’t apologize for being married. In fact, now that you and Elaine aren’t together, I’ll have to keep a look out for some new prospects for you.

Don’t do me any favors, mate. I’m good where I am.

And that was true. He was never one to actively pursue the ladies, but success on the pitch had meant that more than his fair share of women was open to spending time with him. Most of them were charming, and some were tempting, but others were so downright aggressive, he was sometimes intimidated. He also learned very quickly that being in a relationship didn’t stop that kind of interest from happening.

Fame wasn’t all it was cracked up to be, but he did love his rugby. His success attracted interest from the public, especially in New Zealand. It was something he’d learned to handle and accept. Everything came with a price, his dad always said. And it wasn’t all bad; he enjoyed meeting people who truly loved the sport as much as he did.

Loud sounds of laughter came from the group who surrounded Liana. His eyes strayed to her again. She seemed to be relating a story that was of interest to a diverse audience, athletes, politicians, young and old. Her white dress seemed to shimmer whenever she moved; dark, long hair was put up, showcasing an attractive neck. Simple diamond earrings sparkled through tendrils of loose hair.

Mitch’s much younger teammate, Blake Stanton, was edging closer and closer to Liana. He was having a great season and was a strong candidate for the Young Player of the Year award. Being in that kind of spotlight could make anyone a little more confident, especially around women.

She’s not going to come to you, no matter how long you look at her, Mitch.

I’ve no idea what you’re talking about, mate.

Connor smirked. I think you do. And don’t worry; you’re in good company. Half of the men here keep staring at her, as do half the women. She’s quite the celebrity, isn’t she? Everyone is curious about her, the first woman manager of our national football team. Fancy that. My wife has always admired her. She screamed when she found out that was a real chance of meeting Liana tonight.

Mitch gulped his drink. Speaking of which, where is your wife?

Over there, trying to push Stanton out of the way.

Mitch looked up and laughed at the sight of the former model-triathlete-now-cookbook editor trying to get past the shorter but broader rugby player. He wasn’t budging, and she wasn’t giving up.

Hundred dollars says Cat will get that spot in five minutes, Connor said.

Not taking it. That’s a given. Your wife is tougher than Stanton hands down.

I’ll drink to that.

Connor and Cat were married almost a year, and Mitch was pleased that his friend was, at last, at peace with himself. He’d had a tough childhood, with his parents’ unhappy marriage at the center of the turmoil. Cat’s presence was the steadying influence he needed. The marriage had also made Connor, a good and talented rugby player, into a better one. When Mitch decided he wanted to concentrate solely on captaining the National Team, Connor was the obvious choice to succeed him at the club level.

Looks like my wife went fishing and is coming back with a prize.

Mitch followed Connor’s gaze and was surprised to see Cat leading Liana toward them.

Mitch, you cleaned up well! Cat exclaimed.

So, your husband has already said, Mitch said, smiling as he bent to kiss Cat on her cheek. And you are looking especially lovely tonight.

Thanks. I felt I had to make an extra effort when I learned Liana was going to be here. Cat looked at Connor. She told me she’d met you on your London tour last year. You didn’t tell me THAT. Why not?

Connor grinned. Because you would have been angry I didn’t get an autograph or something. Has my wife told you she’s quite a big fan of yours? Connor asked before exchanging kisses with the celebrity. It’s nice to see you again, Liana. When did you fly in?

A week ago, Liana said, smiling.

Connor whistled. You’ve done well to keep out of the press all that time.

When I’m wearing my trainers and sweats, I’m just like everyone else, Liana said. She turned to Mitch, and, for the second time that night, he could only stare at her. The feeling of indecision returned, and, for some reason, he was unable to formulate any words.

She didn’t seem to have the same problem. It’s nice to finally meet you, Mitch Molloy. I tried to introduce myself in London, but you were very busy that night, she said, extending her hand.

Now that she was right in front of him, Mitch discovered that Liana was taller than he had assumed, with the top of her head just reaching his chin. He returned a firm handshake and glanced at their hands, entwined in what should have been a friendly but neutral form of physical contact, except her touch gave him a feeling of satisfaction he hadn’t expected. When their eyes met, he almost forgot to breathe. They were different shades of brown, warm yet mysterious. They widened slightly, and she smiled again. A smile just for him.

Mitch cleared his throat. Were you at the post-Test party in London?

Liana nodded. I was. I only caught the match on TV. The pundits still talk about it, but as good as it was, it was a better party afterward. I don’t remember seeing so many Englishmen so happy after a loss before. It was quite an event.

It must have been because he didn’t remember much from that night. Why have we never met before? he asked. He knew Liana was popular in the London social scene.

I guess the football and rugby worlds don’t mix as often as they should, she said softly, her eyes still on his. Their silent exchange couldn’t have lasted for more than a few seconds. Blood rushed to his head, his heartbeat rang loudly in his ears, and the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. She was intoxicating.

Cat spoke, the sound of her voice breaking the moment. Well, let’s definitely change that. Since you’ll be in Christchurch in a couple of weeks, I’d love for you to come over for dinner. Let me introduce you to some of our great local foods and a little Kiwi culture. The boys have a bye that weekend, and that means they are usually done with training earlier. If you have a free afternoon, we’d be honored to have you as our guest. Mitch, you come over too, of course.

That would be very kind, Liana said. I’ve made it a personal philosophy never to say no to home-cooked meals.

You’re in for a treat, Connor said. Cat isn’t just a food editor. She’s a really fantastic cook. That’s how she won me over.

Oh? I thought you said it was my intellect and kindness, Cat said.

That, too. But the cooking is definitely up there.

Liana laughed. Then I’m very much looking forward to it.

Is that a yes? Cat asked. Wonderful! I’m honored! We’re all excited you’re going to be part of the Kiwi sports family.

A familiar voice came from behind them. Hello, everyone. What’s going on?

An arm went through Mitch’s. He turned to smile at Elaine but not before catching Cat’s body stiffening slightly. Cat had never liked Elaine, but she tried very hard to be cordial to her for his benefit.

Liana has graciously agreed to join us for dinner in a couple of weeks, Cat explained then took a deep breath. If you’re around, maybe you’d like to join us?

I’d love to, but I leave for France tomorrow and won’t return until the end of the month. Elaine flashed a smile at Liana. Welcome to New Zealand, Liana. I’m Elaine Rawley. I usually don’t mix business with pleasure, but would you be open to meeting my editor? Off-the-record, of course. She’s a big fan, and we’ve been chatting about how we need to do a series on women in high-profile sports positions.

Mitch glanced sharply at his ex-girlfriend. They’d always agreed she wouldn’t bring up her work at his events.

Well, you caught me at a good time. I’ll be happy to meet her now. Lead the way, Elaine, Liana said. She took a card out from a small gold clasp and handed it to Cat. Here’s my contact information. You can send me the details for dinner by email or at the number. She turned to Mitch. I’m glad we were able to meet tonight, Mitch.

Likewise, Liana. I’ll see you at Cat’s and Connor’s. Something made him hold out his hand again, and when she took it, he had to remind himself to let go.

Mitch watched Liana as she moved through the crowd and appreciated the ease in which she did so. She smiled easily at the people around her, even those who were openly gawking.

I thought you broke up with Elaine, Cat hissed as she came up to Mitch.

I did.

So why is she here?

She already bought the dress, Connor explained.

Cat stared at her husband. What?

It’s true. She already bought the dress, Mitch confirmed.

Cat shook her head. You’re too nice of a bloke, Mitch. When most people end a relationship, the last thing they want is to be seen at the biggest social event of the year with their ex.

Mitch finished his drink and leaned over to kiss Cat on the cheek. But I’m not most people. Enjoy your evening. I think I’m done for the night.

You just arrived! Cat protested.

I’ve been here almost an hour. I’m in a number of photos. I spoke to a few reporters. I’ve given my regards to all the important people. I’ve done my duty.

Elaine all right to get home? Connor asked.

Yeah, she knew I was planning on leaving early. She’s arranged a car to take her back to the condo.

She’s staying with you tonight? Cat asked.

Mitch laughed, amused at Cat’s quiet outrage. We’re still friends.

He shook hands with Connor and moved to the doors, stopping briefly to exchange a few words with some of the cricketers. Before he left, he turned one last time. His eyes searched the ballroom and found her. He frowned. Blake was pulling Liana towards the dance floor. She was laughing as she put her arm around Blake’s shoulder. He’d give that to young Stanton; the bloke was definitely not shy when it came to the ladies. Time to go, Molloy. You have a game on Saturday to prepare for.

She looked up just then. Across the wide expanse of the room, despite the din of voices and music, their eyes met again. She smiled, a soft, quiet smile, far different from the ones on the magazine covers. This one was just for him. His throat dried; his palms became sweaty. Her eyes stayed on him; her smile still there. He found himself returning it. As he walked to the carpark, Mitch’s mind was full of questions about the woman in white he was leaving behind.

CHAPTER TWO

Flooded?

Liana laughed as she pulled the band from her ponytail and shook her hair loose. She had just entered her hotel room after a morning run when her laptop sounded. Thinking it was her grandparents, she had rushed to it. Instead, it was one of her girlfriends who had patiently waited for the end of Liana’s no-contact-for-one-week moratorium.

Liana smiled when she saw who it was. Almost one week to the hour. She wasn’t surprised it was Moira Tisdale who’d be first to call.

What do you mean flooded? repeated the redhead on the laptop screen, looking confused.

That’s the exact question I asked the property manager, Liana said. A pipe burst yesterday afternoon. Several of their units were damaged. Liana leaned back in her chair and kicked off her running shoes.

But they will find something for you, won’t they? I mean you’ve paid the deposit.

"They’re trying to find something for me. Quite a few tenants were displaced. And there’s very little available right now as it is. You know it took me several weeks to secure this one."

That doesn’t sound good.

Well, there’s not a lot near the stadium, and that is where I want to be long-term.

How’s the hotel?

Liana angled her laptop to show the presidential suite she had been staying in since her arrival in Auckland. It was far more luxurious than what she’d typically book for herself, but she’d thought she might as well start her new life in the Southern Hemisphere with a little extravagance.

Very posh. Are you staying there long?

Liana turned the laptop back to face her. I wish. But the suite’s only available for one more night. I was going to move into the rental today. At this moment, I’m going to be homeless as of ten o’clock tomorrow morning.

Moira laughed. Well, you wanted an adventure. What are you going to do?

Liana shook her head. I’m not sure. Worse comes to worst, I could stay in another hotel for a while. I was planning to spend some time on the South Island next week, so maybe while I’m there, I’ll be able to sort out a few things.

A figure appeared next to Moira. You’re half a world away, and you two continue to disturb my telly-time with all your talking.

Moira elbowed the large man. Oh, quit. We’re not gossiping. This is quite serious, Guy. A pipe burst in the place Liana was supposed to move into. She’s homeless as of tomorrow.

Guy Tisdale’s blue eyes were now alert. He dragged his hand through his short, brown hair. You’re kidding. How long will it take to fix the place?

I don’t know yet, Liana said. But it’s unlikely to be very quick. There was a lot of water damage. It was quite a mess, from what I understand. Right now, I’m just looking for something temporary.

Let me give Mitch Molloy a call. Maybe he can help, Guy said.

Liana frowned. Mitch Molloy? Captain of New Zealand rugby?

Yeah. I think he still has a place in Auckland. He stays there when he trains with the National Team. He offered it to us when we let him use our cottage in the Lake District last year. He wanted a weekend away with his girlfriend. What was her name? The journalist?

Elaine Rawley, Moira said quickly. I thought they broke up.

Did they? I wouldn’t know. You know those things don’t interest me, Guy said.

Liana smiled at Guy’s comments. For someone who made the gossip magazines as often as he did, he was surprisingly clueless about other celebrities. What a coincidence. I met both of them last night.

What was last night? Moira asked.

The End of Winter Ball. I flew in early especially for it, and it was helpful to meet a lot of people from the sports community. I met Connor Dane’s wife. She’s quite lovely. You’d like her, Moira.

Well, Connor’s quite nice. And Mitch seemed nice as well. I had a chance to chat with him for five minutes last year when he came by to pick up the keys to the cottage.

Does Mitch actually live in Auckland? Liana asked as she took the laptop from the desk and moved to the sofa.

No, Guy said, scrolling through his phone. His club team is on the South Island, in Christchurch. He grew up there as well. Spends most of his free time there, too, I reckon. Didn’t I introduce you to him last year? When we were at the after-Test party?

Other than Connor, who was kind enough to help me stop someone from hitting you, I didn’t meet anyone. I was too busy trying to protect your honor.

I didn’t start that argument, Guy said, defensively.

Moira stared at her husband. Someone was trying to hit you? Again? Why is this the first I’d heard of it? I’m glad I asked Liana to keep an eye on you.

Liana smiled as she remembered Moira’s frantic call last year. Their babysitter had canceled, and, as an experienced wife of a rugby player, Moira knew that these post-Test celebrations were an important part of the rugby culture. But they also attracted a lot of people more interested in the celebrity than the sport. She’d begged Liana to accompany Guy, the newly appointed captain of the English rugby team. Moira didn’t trust some of the—what was the phrase she’d used?—vampish starlets that were always at these parties.

Liana had reluctantly agreed. She remembered thinking how odd it was that almost twenty years after she last babysat Guy, she was doing it again. Except their ten-year age gap made little difference now that he was an adult and a rugby star.

It had been quite the singles scene that night in London. Throw two rugby teams, football stars, actors, and actresses into one room, add free-flowing drinks and raging hormones, and the paparazzi were kept very busy. Despite all the celebrities in attendance, Mitch was the main attraction. He had played a phenomenal match and was in the mood to celebrate.

Yes, she remembered him from that party. She didn’t remember Elaine Rawley, but if the reporter were there, her presence didn’t seem to stop many women from trying to make an impression on Mitch. He was never alone.

Mitch? Did I wake you? Guy yelled into his phone.

Moira rolled her eyes at Liana before nudging Guy off-screen. He can be quite uncouth sometimes. Why didn’t you stop me from marrying him?

You’ve been in love with him since you were both ten. I told you to wait for someone else. If you didn’t listen to me when you were a child, how was I going to stop you fifteen years later?

Moira sighed. I miss you already.

Oh, Moira. It’s only been a few days since I left London. And look, we’re already talking.

You wouldn’t be homeless if you had stayed here, Moira argued. You had all those offers from the TV networks. Raj and Anusha would have loved it if you had taken one of those commentator jobs instead.

I know. Granddad is particularly worried. Has he said anything?

No, we haven’t spoken. Would you like me to phone them ever so often? To make sure they’re all right?

Liana shook her head. I’ve been speaking to them every day. I think that has helped ease their worry that I’m half a world away! They know I need to do this. Remember there weren’t any offers to manage a team in England. Or Scotland. Or anywhere else in Europe. I took Exeter up a division and to a Cup Final, but that still wasn’t enough to prove that I can do the job.

Calm down! You had coffee this morning, didn’t you? Exeter would have offered you the position eventually.

Perhaps, but this job came up now.

I know, Moira said, softly. I know, and we are proud of you. We’ve always been. Just remember not to put yourself under a lot of pressure, Liana.

Moira touched the screen from her side of the world. Liana responded in kind, understanding the concern in Moira’s words. It wasn’t the first time she had heard such sentiments. Everyone in Liana’s small but tight circle of friends and family questioned her decision to take the position.

I’m qualified, and I’m ready.

Her friend’s sigh was more visible than audible. Liana knew what Moira was more concerned about. And it wasn’t about the job. Hey, Liana said. I’m fine.

Just promise me that you’ll do more than work. Go out; meet people; have fun again!

But before she could answer, Guy pushed himself back into the screen. Right—you’re not homeless anymore.

Liana blinked. What do you mean?

Mitch says he has a spare room you can use. I’m sending you his phone number. He’s waiting for your call.

Just like that?

Yeah. He says he can let you into the condo today.

Today? Is he staying there right now?