Stand Of Redemption(49)

Ria felt herself taking deep breaths, doing everything in her power not to stomp over there, jerk that skinny bitch by the hair, and throw her to the ground. She needed to quit going to these fights. If she wasn’t careful, she would be asking Melanie for lessons.

“I’ve only been out of the sling for a few weeks, but the doctor recommends waiting a couple more before I start training again. I have a follow up appointment scheduled soon and will make a decision about training then,” Nicholas lied with a smoothness and polish that impressed Ria. He never let it slip that he was already fighting much sooner than the doctors wanted. She felt terrible he wasn’t following his doctor’s orders because of her.

She was starting to see why Nicholas was such a favorite; he knew how to work a crowd, and especially the woman journalist who was practically drooling as she looked up at him. She hadn’t written a single word in that notebook.

“I would love to have a one-on-one interview with you sometime. You’ve had a long, interesting career; it would be great to do a cover on your experiences,” the reporter tried to tempt him. “Maybe over dinner? My treat.” She blinked up at him in expectation.

“My story has been published numerous times. I don’t think it would be that interesting anymore. We have several up and coming fighters that have a lot of potential, and their stories are much better than mine. Feel free to contact them for an interview,” Nicholas smoothly brushed her off as he stepped away.

“Oh, okay. Well, thanks.” Her disappointed gaze followed his ass as he walked away.

“Congratulations, Ty. I’m proud of you, kid,” Zane said heartily and gave Ty a handshake.

“Thanks, Zane. I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t taken me in and trained me.”

Melanie reached in and gave Ty a hug. “Nice job!”

Ria took her turn, giving him a hug. “That was great! Congratulations.” Ria grinned at Nicholas. “And congratulations to the coach, too!” she said cheekily.

Nicholas laughed. “Thanks, Ria.” He turned back to Ty. “Way to come back. I knew you had him.”

“Thanks, Nick.” Ty seemed uncomfortable being the center of attention.

Nicholas nodded for Ty to go on into the locker room, and Ty did so, leaving the four of them in the hallway.

“Not one fucking member of his family came to watch the fight,” Nicholas said angrily. “His dad could have at least showed up. I guess, unless he’s the one using Ty as a fucking punching bag, he’s not interested.

“I’m glad you came, Melanie and Ria,” he continued. “At least he knows there are people that care for him and his success.”

“Of course, Nick,” Melanie replied.

Ria nodded her head in agreement. Ty had saved her, but he was wrong. Others had shown up to watch and cheer for him. She had caught a brief glance of Emiliano and Mitchell leaving when Ty’s fight was over. She was beginning to understand what Mitchell had meant by telling her about Emiliano. Ty was a minor member in his organization, yet he had taken the time to show up. He had earned his place back in the cartel.

“And congratulations to the future Mrs. Phillips.” Nicholas pulled his sister in for a hug. “And all I can say is good luck to you, Zane.”

Melanie gasped. “Nick!” She punched him, but he was far too strong, and she couldn’t make any headway.

“I’m happy for you both. There’s no other man I would want you to be with, little sis,” Nicholas said sincerely, which calmed Melanie down.

“Thanks, bro,” Melanie replied then went back to stand next to Zane.

Ria smiled. They were a formidable couple, both strong and passionate. It was clear they belonged together.

Ty came out, and they walked to the parking lot where they said their goodbyes and congratulations one more time. Nicholas drove her to her car, which she had parked farther away.

“What did you think?” Nicholas asked.

“It was interesting,” Ria replied, not wanting him to know that it was painful to watch and she’d had to turn her head several times.

Nicholas laughed. “That’s a politically correct answer. Now tell me what you really thought.”

Ria sighed. They were both good at reading one another. At least neither one of them would ever be very good at bull-shitting each other.

“I’m happy for Ty. That was an awesome kick to end the fight. But I’m not used to watching a fight. I imagine the pain the fighters must feel each time they get hit, and it makes me cringe. And blood doesn’t bother me—I’ve seen plenty of it when I was out on runs—but watching a punch and then the blood… it’s hard for me to watch that for some reason.”