Adam Reynolds says his love affair with Brisbane has ultimately saved him from being haunted for the rest of his life.
The Broncos captain and halfback grew up in the back streets of Redfern, kicking balls at garbage bins and lamp posts while dreaming of playing for South Sydney
He achieved his wish and won the 2014 NRL premiership with the Rabbitohs before losing the 2021 decider to Penrith.
His move to the Broncos in 2022, after the Rabbitohs decided Lachlan Ilias would be their long-term halfback, came as a shock.
Now, ahead of Sunday's grand final showdown with the Panthers, he is one win away from a second title.
At the Broncos media session on Monday, the 33-year-old was asked if he ever thought he could love another club like he loved the Rabbitohs.
"Probably not. I was at Souths my whole life and knew nothing different," Reynolds said.
"It's not until you step out of an organisation and find another one and realise what's on the other side.
"I thought South Sydney was all for me, but I'm grateful for the opportunity I have been given by Brisbane and I've fallen deeply in love with the club. It's a good love story."
That story will be even more romantic if the Broncos can get the job done and win a seventh premiership against the back-to-back defending premiers.
In 2021 the Rabbitohs lost 14-12 in the grand final against the Panthers with Reynolds missing a late conversion that would have levelled the scores.
It is the Broncos that have given him another shot at title glory.
"It excites me that I get another chance to do it. I'm sure if I'd never got another opportunity again, it would haunt me for the rest of my life," Reynolds said.
"I have experienced both sides of a grand final. It's much better sitting on the winning side.
"It's an honour every time I run out and represent the Broncos. I love the history and … the writing on the walls.
"You walk through (Broncos headquarters at) Red Hill and you respect what everyone has done before you.
"To add to that piece of history would be up there with my biggest achievements."
Upsetting the Panthers will be the Broncos' biggest challenge yet.
"Penrith are a great team and they do things so well, but we're up for the fight," he said.
"We have to be at our best and make sure we turn up with the right attitude."
