Page 67 of Clinch'd

I guess there’s something about Minnie that’s different than all the other women I’ve fucked and forgotten. She’s not easy to forget.

I admire the passion in her eyes when she speaks about her sister, her laugh when I’ve done something stupid for the sole purpose of seeing that pretty smile. She doesn’t take my bullshit like the others because she’s not here for the fame I suspect most of the others want.

She reminds me of my mom a little, actually and it burns my fucking soul that I can’t call my dad and tell him all about her. He would’ve liked Minnie, even knowing she’s lying about why she’s here.

I’ve circled the drain on those thoughts, and I know the only way to find answers is through Beast. I’ve avoided it until now because it didn’t matter but if seeing Minnie with Cross set me off, I know it’s time I did what I should have from the beginning.

I need to confront the big bastard and figure out what’s going on. It’s that or break it off with Minnie but I’m not ready for that shit yet.

I just hope whatever he says doesn’t change everything because I think I’ve finally found peace after years of being at war with myself and the world. I’ve been angry and lost but with Minnie, I feel like I have a direction.

It’s this that scares the shit out of me but also inspires me to take the next step.

With a groan, I pull up Beast’s number and head back toward the elevator. It’s time to confront the asshole and steal back my girl.

Chapter 27

Minnie

The following morning, I roll out of bed with an emotional hangover. Well, that and a roiling belly because tequila and I do not mix. Ugh.

Beast still hasn’t texted me, the asshole but Cooper sent a message this morning.

I’m busy today. Meet me after the fight tonight?

Nibbling my lip, I hover over the keys before finally typing,Okay

I convince myself that I acquiesce because I still have to play the game, but I know the truth. I want more. When it comes to Cooper, I always do.

I don’t know where we stand but it doesn’t matter. I’m still in the game whether I want to be or not.

Since I’m free until later, I head down to the pool and laze in the sun, soaking up the rays and enjoying a few pricy as fuck drinks.

It’s only later as I enter my room that I find something from Beast.

Meet me in the lobby at eight

Rolling my eyes, I step into the shower. Would it hurt the jerk to say please?

After standing under the spray until my muscles feel like jelly, I don a sweet red dress with a pretty bow at the waist and pull my hair into a ponytail. I forgo heavy makeup because I’m tired of the charade and sit in a booth at the bar before ordering a drink.

I’m early but I couldn’t stand the thought of being alone, so here I am.

I still haven’t spoken to Lorri, and I feel like an asshole but I’m afraid she’ll sniff out what’s going on. She has a knack for that shit.

Cooper’s confession lays in my stomach like a hot brick while my heart is lighter than it’s ever been. The problem is, we were both fucked from the beginning and now I have to watch what could have been die a horrible death.

What a perfectly horrid thought.

My thoughts are turned when my phone buzzes and with a sigh, I pick it up.

If you don’t call me, I’ll assume you’re dead and call the cops

Rolling my eyes, I dial her number and wince when she picks up. “Where have you been?”

“Um,” I say, clearing my throat.

“What’s the matter? You sound sick?”

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