He’s also one of the few people who know Ethan isn’t exactly my blood relative and that I never had any siblings. It’s just easier to call him my nephew than explain everything.
“There’s plenty more where that came from.” I send another fist flying at his face, but this time he’s expecting it and dodges it just in time.
An hour later, I’m tired, sweaty, my shirt’s been ripped off, and Lucas and I are both beaten to a pulp. I have a cut lip, and several bodily bruises. It’s hard to tell who won.
“I needed that. Thanks man.” I worked the majority of the rage out and feel so much better.
“Anytime, bud. I haven’t had a brawl like that in a long time.” He shakes my hand. One thing I like about Lucas, he can beat your ass and will buy you a beer after. He’s a real stand-up guy.
“Are you two done acting like animals where I can get my lesson in?” Maya says from the door. Her beautiful face is swollen from crying, and it’s all my fault. I feel a tinge of guilt for acting the way I did with her.
“Of course. Should I play some music to get the mood just right for you?” I tease.
“I got this covered. Alexa, play ‘She Fucking Hates Me’ by Puddle of Mudd.” I knew she’d hate me, eventually, I just didn’t expect it to bother me the way it does.
“Excellent choice, my spicy little cupcake. May I have this dance?” I extend a hand to her, she gives me a death stare and walks right by me.
“Stop pushing her Nick,” Ethan calls from behind. He’s right. I fucked up and I need to fix it.
“Leave us,” I tell the men. Her and I are going to work this out like adults.
I shut the door behind them as they exit and turn to face Maya. Her training must be working because she stands tall and isn’t fidgeting.
“Why did you make them leave?” she asks.
“Thought you could train with me instead.” I take a step in her direction. She tenses slightly but doesn’t immediately say no.
“Do I have a choice?” She holds her head high—I am so proud of her.
“Yes, and I promise not to hold it over your head if you say no.” I hand her a pair of wraps to protect her hands.
“Same rules apply for when you spar with Lucas. No dirty shots, I’m not wearing a cup. It’ll be good practice for you to learn someone else’s technique.” That and I want to be the one working with her from now on.
“You’re going to trust me not take dirty shots after you’ve shown me I can’t trust you not to act like an asshole?” she questions.
Good point. She might deserve to get in a cheap shot, or two, but I hope she’s more merciful than I am.
“I was out of line. Saying I’m sorry to you isn’t enough, but believe me when I say I am. Here’s your chance to take your aggression out on me.”
“Coming back to slam me into the mat and mock me again? Just like a typical narcissist, trying make yourself feel better,” she deadpans.
“No. If you still want to work with me, we have to work through our differences. You and I are also a lot alike. Fueled by unresolved rage, but I don’t want to lose you to that.” Or at all.
“Are we just practicing punches or full take downs?”
“Whatever you pick. Do you want me to wrap your hands?” I step closer, invading her space.
“I can do it. I want full take downs.” She stands tall and unwavering.
I grin. “Good girl.” I want her to give it her all.
Her breath hitches. “What’s going to happen if I decide to let Marcus take me out?”
“Do you know why Marcus was running late today?” I grab the blocking pad, ready for her to swing.
“Ethan told me. Are you bringing it up to hurt or deter me from seeing him again?” Her moves are calculated as she circles me, looking for the best shot to take. Lucas has taught her well.
“I’m telling you because it’s the truth and you deserve to know. He gets around a lot he’s no good for you.” I haven’t been any better but I’m tired of warring with myself over what I want.
