Page 31 of Stone's Promise

I took the shake, eyeing her as I sipped. “Thoughtful as always. Thanks.”

She hesitated, like she was gathering in her thoughts. “It’s crunch time, right? Fight’s coming up?”

I nodded, rolling my shoulders. “I can’t put a lot of my attention to this like I used to.”

Emily’s expression shifted. “On our fake relationship, or our actual one?”

“Cody, let’s go!” Before I could even begin to figure out what to say, the trainers walked in. “We got new video of Ray’s last fight you need to watch.”

Emily took a small step back. “I heard of boxers watching videos to learn their opponent’s moves. Is that what that is?”

I nodded. “It’s called film study. I’m learning all I can about Ray’s weak points.”

“I can let you get back to your session.”

I gave her an apologetic look. “Talk later?”

She nodded, but the smile she gave me didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Yeah, of course.”

She set my food down and left. Her question stayed behind with me.

I replayed it in my head as I wrapped my hands again.Our fake relationship, or our actual one?She left fast. Did I mess up by not answering? If the trainers hadn’t walked in—if I’d had the chance—whatwouldI have said?

EMILY

I LEFT THE GYM FASTERthan I probably should have, but I couldn’t shake the embarrassment creeping up my neck.Our fake relationship, or our actual one?Why did I say that?

I should’ve just left things alone. But no, I had to go and ask Cody that question. And worse, he didn’t answer. Maybe thatwashis answer.

I sighed as I pushed open the door to Mama’s boutique, the soft chime of the bell above announcing my arrival. The familiar scent of vanilla and fresh cotton welcomed me in. I needed to take my mind off the fact that I’d just made things ten times more awkward between Cody and me.

Mama stood behind the counter, adjusting the display of pastel scarves. She barely glanced up before giving methe look. The one that saidI know something’s up, and I will find out what it is.

“Doing some retail therapy?” she asked, a teasing note in her voice.

I grabbed a hanger off the rack and turned it toward the light, pretending to examine the cute floral blouse like it was the most interesting thing in the world. “Just looking for an outfit for Family Day.”

“Uh-huh.” Mama set down a scarf and leaned on the counter. “You look different.”

My stomach flipped. “Different how?”

“Happier.”

I let out a laugh, a little too quickly. “I’ll be happy when this week is over.”

She hummed like she didn’t believe me for a second.

I could feel her gaze on me, knowing, patient. She could probably tell things shifted, that I was flustered, and the reason for it was a certain gruff, ridiculously attractive MMA fighter.

I kept my eyes on the clothes, pretending to focus. My head was still back at Warriors Den, replaying Cody’s stoic expression. Had I imagined our connection? Or had I just made a complete fool of myself?

After another ten minutes of browsing, mostly to avoid Mama’s knowing glances, I finally picked out a soft pink matching top and shorts set. It was a simple but cute outfit for Family Day. Mama rang me up, still eyeing me like she was waiting for me to spill my secrets. I was done making a mess of things today. I’d tell her after Family Day, after I had a chance to breathe and the media shifted focus on Cody’s big fight. I gave her a quick hug before heading out the door, promising I’d stop by later in the week.

Once I settled into my car, I let out a long breath. This was...a lot. Between the gym, my own runaway feelings, and now Mama’s watchful eyes, I felt like I was being pulled in too many directions at once.

Just as I started the engine, my phone rang.

Oliver.

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