Fighting for Us (Bailey Brothers, #2)

by Claire Kingsley

“Look, I appreciate the offer, but I don’t think that’s a good idea.” “I get it. It means relocating and you’ve got family here.” He narrowed his eyes. “And maybe a girl?” I glanced away again. “Not exactly.” “Coffee shop girl flashed a ring at me. Was she yours once? And maybe someone else put that ring on her finger while you were gone?” “I don’t want to talk about her.” He put his hands up again. “Fair enough. But seriously, man, think about it. What are you going to do out here? What kind of job are you going to get now? I know what it’s like—I grew up in a small town, although mine was more of a shithole than this place. Still, no one looks at you the same. And this could mean huge money.” “I’m almost thirty. Aren’t I already getting too old for this?” “Not at all. A lot of fighters don’t peak until their mid-thirties. We’ve got guys still winning into their forties. You train properly, take care of yourself, you’d have a solid ten years, maybe fifteen. Things go well, that’s more than enough time to make you a shit ton of money. I’m talking set-you-up-for-life kind of money. Set your family up for life, if you want.” Take care of my family. That was the crack in my armor, and he’d just wormed his way in. Right now, I could barely afford to take care of myself. I didn’t have a plan or any other opportunities. Ever since I’d gotten out, I’d been asking myself what I was going to do with my life. This could be the answer to that question.