They looked away. My sister moved over till she was sitting next to me.
"Is it something that happened at the shop?" she whispered.
Uh, yeah, but I can't tell you, I thought. "No."
She gave me a look that said she didn’t believe me.
"It’s nothing, Lee. I am fine, I promise," I said, picking up a fry and nibbling on it.
After dress rehearsals I headed back to my bakery. I was busy at the front counter when one of my employees turned on the TV. I almost jumped out of my skin at the sound of all the squeals. I looked up at the screen, ready to turn it off, but paused as I saw who they were talking about.
“Ryder Cane seen running away from a pack of fans,” the news bulletin read.
I let out a chuckle. So that is why he was in my dressing room. He was hiding from fans, the poor guy.
And you kicked his ass
But was he doing here? I knew he was on a break for two weeks. Why hang out here when he could be in the Caribbean with a bunch of girls? I would love to be one those girls. Just talking to him, get to know him beyond the basics that everyone knew.
You have way too big dreams for a small town girl.
Said everyone before you were crowned Best Female MMA Fighter years ago.
I took a deep breath and shut the log book. I would not be able to concentrate today. My brains cells were scrambled all over.
One thing that stayed with me though was his eyes. I have met guys with blue eyes, they were normally blonds. But Ryder had dark black hair with piercing blue-green eyes. I could stare at them forever—even get lost in them.
Come on, Alex. This is ridiculous, dreaming about a guy who’s far out of your league. He dates models, probably sleeps with them too. What makes you think he’d even look at you twice? You’re nothing special, and definitely not someone who makes men stop and stare. You’re way too loud, you sound like a hyena on steroids, and you’re way too forward.
Chapter three
When I arrived home, Amy was sitting in front of the TV with a glass wine, and not with a bucket of ice-cream. I shut the door, staring at her with awe. I was so shocked I almost misplaced my helmet.
"Amy?" I asked and she looked up, smiling. What the jeepers creepers is going on here?
"Oh, hi, Alex. Hope you’re hungry. Juan is cooking up a storm."
I shook my head. "Juan?" I asked, confused. And then he walked out from the kitchen with only an apron—and I mean only a god damn apron. My eyes almost bulged out of their sockets. I covered my face and groaned. "Come on, guys! I still live here! Put on some clothes." I saw Amy eyeing him, and oh em gee, she was drooling. I snapped my fingers. "Like, now!"
Juan walked off with his butt cheeks fully on display. "Oh, God," I groaned, looking away.
"Amy, what the hell?" I hissed at her when he finally left.
"What? He stayed and offered to make me dinner. I did not expect that."
"I’m going to get takeout." I grabbed my jacket and helmet.
"No, come on. He specially made food for three people."
"You guys, going on like newlyweds, can't take your eyes off one another, and certainly hands as well. I feel the sexual tension between the two of you."
"Ha, ha. Funny."
"I am going now and when I get home he’d better be gone."
She pouted.
"Or in your room."
She smiled and winked. Unbelievable. I let out a breath and walked to my bike. The ride to the bar was short and I walked in and greeted everyone I knew.
"Hey girl, good to see you," the bartender, Ashley, greeted me. Now, she was a chick you didn't want to mess with. She was one of those girls you always see in movies, with the broad, muscular shoulders and tattoos. Basically, she was tough. She could grab you with one hand and shove you out of her bar. That’s why there were never any fights.
"Uh, had better days."
She nodded and handed me a beer.
"I’d like also some those famous Charles ribs."
She placed my order. Their TV was on and the people were making so much noise I couldn't hear. But when Ryder's photo appeared I almost choked on my beer. Someone had recorded him running away from the fans. I wanted to laugh at how adorable he looked.
"One plate of ribs." She slid them across the counter. "Now, that is one hot dude," she commented, glancing up at the TV.
I just smiled at her and started eating.
"Well, that was nice." I pushed the empty plate with bones back towards Ashley.
"Glad you like it."
I nodded and handed her money.
"Make sure you come more often."
"Yeah, yeah. If Amy keeps the man she has now you ‘ll see me more."
She chuckled, shaking her head.
I didn't go straight home. Instead I went to the beach. I took off my shoes and walked along the shore for a moment, then sat down, watching at the waves and the sunset.
Where the sun touched the water it was like everything came to life, the dark blue waves turning in the orange light and the quietness that made it feel like a romantic evening. But what do I know about romance? I sat with my legs pulled up against my chest, watching the sun set as I heard children playing and couple laughing.
I stood up and walked back to my bike, dusting off the sand, and sent a message to Amy to make sure they were done. When I got home, the lights were off and a packet of my favorite Oreo cookies were placed on the counter. I smiled as I read the note.
Was thinking of you and how I owe you big time.
You know who.
Amy was so cliché. I wondered how long this guy would stay. As I passed her room I heard laughing and walked faster to my own. When I lay on my bed, I set my headsets on loud, falling asleep to Def Leppard “Pour Some Sugar On Me.”
It was already Monday morning and I was at my shop checking the figures. On Sunday morning Juan had left, promising Amy he would be back. He held his promise as he showed up Sunday night to take her out on a date. She was in Seventh Heaven.
I went to the kitchen and helped the guys preparing dishes. One of my employees walked in. "Uhm, Alex? There’s someone here to see you, Mrs. James."
"Oh, yeah, for her function party." I rubbed my hands on my apron, then washed and dried them. I went to meet her. Mrs. James and her husband were among our best clients—and they had deep pockets. At first they were uptight, until I proved myself to them. From then on they kept coming back. She was sitting at the counter speaking to Old Maggie; the woman comes here every day for her coffee and gossip. Maggie was actually a very sweet woman.
"Mrs. James?"
She looked up. "Oh, hey, dear." I saw the bump and my eyes went wide. She placed her hand on her swell of her belly and smiled. "This little bugger made me gain ten pounds."
I smiled and helped her up. We walked to the back and she ordered tea with a piece of dark chocolate cake.
"So how long?" I asked and she couldn't hide her smile.
"It’s been six months."
'Then I am guessing the reason you called for me."
"Oh, yes. I am having a huge baby shower, and of course you are invited."
I smiled and nodded. We started planning her baby shower cake and she was happy.
"I trust in you to make me a wonderful cake."
I smiled, shaking her hand. “Always."
She walked off and I went on drawing the cake. She likes to go big, and I can only imagine what she wants. She won't like the plain old baby shower cakes, so I needed to impress.
I spent at least a half hour drawing until even I was finally impressed.
Mum showed up and took a seat opposite me. "Hey, honey."
I looked up. "Hey, Ma." I called one of the girls to assist my mom with something to drink.
"Hmm, your next project?"
"Yeah, for Mrs. James. It’s her baby shower." I turned the sketch book and she looked at it.
"Impressive." My mo
ther was acting very strange, she never just showed up and took an interest in my work.
"Okay, what's up?" I asked, leaning back in my seat.
She lifted an eyebrow and I saw fear in her eyes.
I leaned forward. "Mom, your eyes are an open book. Now tell me what is going on, please?" I folded my arms in front of my chest.
"He is back, honey," she said, so softly that I just caught it, but I was confused.
"Who, Mom?" I was curious.
"Eddy."
I stiffened at his name and memories came rushing back. I fell backward in my seat, looking at the ceiling. Here we go again...
Chapter four
Three years ago...
I had finally found the perfect wedding cake and reception venue for us. I couldn't wait to tell Eddy. I left work early just to show him what I’d found.
I entered the house, throwing my keys on the counter. "Eddy?" I yelled, kicking off my shoes and running upstairs. He was probably in his study. I pushed the door open leading to the study, but it was empty.
I walked towards our bedroom. When my hand touched the knob my body stiffened. I heard a woman moan. I slowly pushed the door open.
I dropped the paper work and my hand flew to my mouth as I let out a sob.
They jumped up, trying to cover themselves.
"Alex," he said.
I took a deep breath and turned around. I walked out the room, each step harder than the one before. Every step made me sob harder. I could already hear my mom: ‘I warned you. That boy was never good to you.’
I stiffened when I heard footsteps behind me.
"Alex, wait." He tried to grasp my wrist but I pulled my hand away. I looked down at my shaking hands, slowly pulled off the ring and threw it at him. "It’s over. We are over. We are done!" I pushed him out of my way and walked out the front door.
I never looked back after that day.
I looked at my mother. "Where did you hear this?" I asked, pushing myself forward.
"I saw his mother at the supermarket. He is asking for you," she said.
I nodded. "He knows I will castrate him." I stood up. "I’ll be fine, Mom. I’m over him since the day I found him with her. I’ve built up my walls, and over the years I’ve become stronger." I reassured her.
"I know, baby. But I am just concerned what your father and brothers will do to him."
I let out a laugh. "Mom, I am more worried what I will do to him," I said, making her smile.
"I am proud of you, baby," she said.
I smiled. "Thanks, Mom," I said, hugging her.
After my mother left, I kept on looking up at the door, waiting for him to show his face.
Amy walked towards me with a raised eyebrow. "What's up with you? You’ve been keeping your eyes glued on the doors."
I sighed. "Eddy is back," I said, turning to her leaning against the counter.
"That bastard. And let me guess, he wants to see you?" she asked and I nodded.
"Something like that." I saw sympathy in her eyes. "Amy, cut it out. It is me we are talking about. I am over that bastard." I walked to the back room.
After work I grabbed my gear and headed to the gym. I greeted Tony, the gym owner. He’s known me from the day I started fighting.
"Alexandra," he greeted me.
"Good to see you, Tony," I replied. I’d never stopped going to the gym. I might have stopped fighting, but I never stopped working out.
"So, don't you have that itch to start fighting again?" he joked.
I smiled. "I am over it, Tony. I sit on the sideline watching over people fight," I said and he smiled, shaking his head.
"Go ahead, kid. Don't let me hold you up," he said.
I saluted him. "Yes, sir!" I walked off towards the punching bags and slipped on my headsets and boxing gloves. I smiled as that familiar feeling overcame me. Once my fist connected with the bag I kept going. I imagined Eddy's face and hit harder. I stopped when everything cramped. I took a deep breath and sat down in front of the bag. I brought my legs up against my chest and rested my head on my arms.
I heard someone applauding. I raised my head and did a double take. Ryder Cane was standing in front of me. He was dressed in black sweatpants and a black Tapout shirt. He looked yummy as hell.
"I think they need a new punching bag," he said. I didn’t know how to respond. I was speechless. Did he remember me from the other day?
I looked around the room and noticed no one was looking. Was I like the only who saw Ryder Cane? Maybe I was dreaming… I stood up and he raised his eyebrows.
"Pinch my arm," I said. He stared at me as if I was crazy, a look I get from all men.
"Why would I do that?" he asked.
"I want to make sure this isn't a dream," I said.
He softly pinched my arm. Nothing happened.
"This feels so unreal," I said and he cocked an eyebrow.
"Why?"
"Dude, don't you know who you are? You are, like, Ryder Cane. Heavyweight champ for three years. To have you talking to me…" I pointed at myself.
He cocked his head. "I’m just as human as you are," he said.
I nodded. "Yeah, but the whole world knows who you are."
He shook his head. "They don't really," he said, winking at me.
Then he just walked off.
Good job, big mouth. You just scared him off. I sighed, throwing my towel over my head. You are so pathetic. No wonder Eddy cheated on you.
Shut up conscience, or I swear…
I arrived at Josh's school. He had a football match. One thing you need to learn about the Anderson family is that it’s a tradition to go everyone's sport events. And we were a big ass family. Everyone knew the Anderson's.
My dad smiled as he saw me. He gave me a tight hug. "Hey, kiddo." He planted a kiss on my forehead. "I heard your mother said the bastard is back in town?"
I nodded.
My dad hugged my tighter, as if he knew I needed it, and I snuggled in his embrace. "He won't come near you, kiddo—I’ll make sure of it."
I nodded and greeted the rest of the family. "I’m just going to check on Josh," I said and my dad nodded.
I walked to the locker rooms and knocked on the door. When the door opened one of his team mates was standing there without a shirt.
He smirked. "Well, if it isn't delicious Alexandra."
I shook my head, pushing him aside. "Way too old for you, bud."
"Yeah, but you see… I can take off all that stress." Tommy raised his eyebrows.
"I want a man who can teach me something. Not me teach him."
"Oh, but you see, who said I need teaching?" He dragged his finger down his body. I rolled my eyes and he chuckled. "Josh is at the bunk."
I walked through to him; he was seated, looking at his helmet.
"If you look any harder at that helmet you are going to burn a hole through it." I leaned against the lockers. He looked and smiled when he saw me. He stood up and walked over to me, hugged me and picked me up. My brother is taller than me, even if he is five years younger than I am.
"Put me down, you idiot."
“Can't help it. You smell like food, and yummy food too." He sniffed me and I rolled my eyes.
"If you are a good boy you will get some." I showed him the container and he went to grab it but I pulled it away. "Ah-uh, wait till after the game." He groaned, and I smirked. “I’m heading up to Mom. Safe game!" We did one of those manly handshakes. He nodded and I turned around, only to crash into one of his friends with him on the team.
"Hey, princess," he said.
"You gotta stop calling me that, Jake." I pointed my finger at him.
He looked down at my finger and smirked. Then he grabbed me by the wrist and sucked my finger. I ripped my hand from his hold and slapped him acoss the face.
"How can you possibly hang out with these goofballs?" I asked my brother, who was laughing.
Chapter five
The next day, Amy wanted to go to the beach and she asked me to join her. Okay, let's rephrase: she forced me to go with her. Don't get me wrong, I love the beach. But I was not in the mood. After she’d convinced me, we left for the beach. It was actually a nice day; there was a slight breeze and it wasn’t too hot.
Amy lay on her towel and I sat down, looking out at the beach. It was as if everybody had decided to come. I was smiling as a little girl and her dad played beach tennis and she was giggling the whole way, missing the ball each time. I didn't even hear Amy sit up; I just felt her hands on my back, and I hissed and yelped at the same time. She giggled and rubbed in sunscreen.
"Before you burn and you give someone else the blame."
I shook my head and smiled as the dad picked up his little girl and ran with her into the water.
"Amy, I need to tell you something."
She sat down next to me waiting for me. I took a deep breath and told her.
"I met Ryder Cane."
Her eyes went as wide as saucers and I thought she was going to pass out. "What?" she squealed, hitting me.
"Damn, if you hit me one more time I swear…" I said, laughing.
What did she do? She hit me again.
"It is not my fault you were kept busy by Juan."
She laughed and looked away, blushing.
I pinched her cheeks. "Aw, look you are red."
She groaned. "When did this happen?"
"At my sister's dress fitting."
Her jaw went slack almost hitting the ground. "But th-that was like… four weeks ago."
I shrugged. "Like I said, not my... oomph!"
She tackled me to the ground and I laughed as tried to push her off.
"Would you get off? I don't like your boobs in my hands and people are going to think we are gay."
She laughed, pushing herself up smiling. "So..." she cooed.
"So, nothing happened. I saw him at the gym a few days ago."
She rolled her eyes. "Wait... at the gym?"
I nodded.
"What were you doing at the gym?"
"Punching the punching bag, duh," I retorted.
"Why was he there?”
Tough Girl Page 2
