I considered it.
For ten seconds.
I spent four years in college fighting in a cage and in bars. I spent four years prior fighting everyone who pissed me off in high school. For a long time, throwing fists wasthe only thing I knew how to do well, and I liked doing it.
Going pro would be lucrative, I’m sure. It’d be a life in the spotlight... and that’s not what I want. I don’t want to train, travel, and spend months away from home.
After the turmoil of my childhood and teenage years, I want a quiet, steady life with the girl I love, surrounded by friends.
Millie circles back, curling into my side, both arms around my middle. “This place will be amazing once everything’s set up.”
I pull her closer and tip her face up until our lips connect. The kiss is slow, deep, and calm. We’re still insatiable, and Millie doesn’t like not wearing a few bruises and love bites, but desperate and rough isn’t all we are now. We get those quiet, soft moments, too. Turns out I know how to be good for her.
She sighs against my lips, pulling back to study my face. “You look happy, Eli.”
“That’s because I am, Millie Baby.”
