Page 10 of Fight for You

I hoped, “For this?”

Avery nodded against my shoulder. “The next morning when he went to work, I told my mom about what happened. I thought she would help me, but she defended her husband. She told me that he was just doing what he felt was right, and it was my fault for making him act on it; that if I were straight to begin with, nothing ever would have happened.”

I had no words. How could a mother turn her back on her child that way? How could she defend such wicked actions?

“When I realized she wouldn’t protect me, I was terrified about what else Jack might do to me. I didn’t know where else to turn, so when I was supposed to be driving to school, I went to the police station instead. I told them everything, and Jack was arrested shortly after that. He didn’t deny a thing; the fucker thought he should get some kind of reward for his ‘good deed’. Eventually, he got locked up. He’s got eight more years to serve.”

It didn’t seem like nearly enough of a punishment, but I was glad he was somewhere far away from Avery. I could only hope the other prisoners were giving him a dose of ‘good deeds’ every damn day.

“My mom blamed me for taking her husband away, and she cut all ties with me. I haven’t heard from her in years and honestly, I don’t want to. I’ve tried to move on with my life and forget about both of them, but that last part has been impossible.

“After everything went down, Daniel pushed me away. My story was in the news and on every pair of lips in town, and he didn’t want to be brought into the middle of it. I wished he would have supported me, but I respected his wishes and never mentioned his name to anyone.

“I didn’t date for years. I couldn’t even think about it. But one day, I told myself I would never fully heal until I faced my fears head on. So, I signed up for a dating site and went out with the first guy I matched with, basically just to get it over with and prove to myself that I could do it.

“But I was wrong. The guy was looking for a hookup and wasn't shy about it. I held it together when he told me what he wanted to do to me, but when he actually touched me, I lost control. My mind went back to that night with Jack and I couldn't handle it. I got sick and passed out. When I woke up, I was in the back of an Uber.”

“He just sent you away?” I snapped angrily. Avery needed help, but the fucker got rid of him.

“I was just glad he didn't do worse to me while I was unconscious.” My heart shattered. That shouldn't have even been a worry on his mind. “But that experience showed me that I wasn't cut out for dating anymore. I'm no good for anyone. Just the thought of having a man inside me…” A shiver rocked through him and I squeezed him tighter.

I stroked his back until his crying stopped and his breathing calmed. “Avery, I hate what that asshole put you through; not only the pain and fear in the moment, but the doubts you're still feeling. But there isnothingwrong with you. You are smart, sweet, and gorgeous, and any man would be lucky to have you. You need a man to help support and understand you, not shame you.

“Sex isn't everything in a relationship; connection and emotions are. But if sex is something you'd eventually want to explore, the right man will be patient and find what works for you.”

“You're wonderful,” Avery sniffled. “How are you still single?”

I chuckled and squeezed him a little tighter. “Thank you. I guess I just haven't found the right person.” I took a chance and added, “Until now.”

He gave a quiet gasp. “Even after what I just told you, you're still interested in me?”

“Absolutely. I've been drawn to you from the moment you stepped foot in this gym. If you'll let me, I want to spend time together and show you how a manshouldtreat you.”

“That sounds so good,” he whispered into my neck. “But what happens if I can't…I mean, what if you're not able to put…” He shuddered again and I gently shushed him.

I'd already told him that sex wasn't the most important thing to me, but I understood why he was concerned, after everything he'd been through. But I knew something that might help settle his mind a little.

“There's something you don’t know about me too; something that turns away most men. Well, it's a reason why things haven't worked out with any man thus far.”

He raised his head to look at me. His eyes were red and swollen, but still so pretty. “What is it?”

“So many guys take a look at my size and my job, and assume certain things about me; mainly that I'll be aggressive and dominating in bed. But that's not the case. They want a rough ride, and while I’ve done it, it’s not what I prefer. I don'tneed to be dominated, but like to be on the…receiving…end of things.” I was attracted to men like Avery; smaller and thinner than I was. I'd never met anyone who was comfortable with taking control.

Avery blinked at me before his lips curled into a cute little smirk. “The right man will be patient and find what works for you.” I beamed at his repeated words. “I'm sorry I pushed you away. I should have been honest with you, but it's just so painful to revisit.”

“I understand, but I'm glad you told me. Avery, I want to learn everything about you so I can take care of you in every way you need. I promise to never do anything to hurt you. Will you take a chance on me?”

His smile faded and I braced myself for rejection, but he replied, “If you're willing to take a chance on me.”

There was no doubt in my mind. I wanted to get closer to him, take care of him, and show him just how great life could really be. To seal my promise, I leaned in slowly and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek, receiving a beautiful smile in return.

“Do you feel like doing a lesson?” I wasn't eager to let go of him, but I thought it might help take his mind off of things.

He thought for a moment before nodding. “But can we sit like this for a little while longer?”

Whether he needed the support or just wanted to be held, I was thrilled either way. “We'll sit here as long as you like.”

Avery nestled his head against my shoulder again, finally relaxing for the first time since dinner. I'd cradle his body until he was ready for me to show him how to defend it.

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