“Wonder what?”
“What Micah thinks about the situation.”
“I have no idea, Pops.”
“Exactly.”
It’s a quiet ride to the gym this morning. Micah keeps glancing over as if he’s checking on me. There are so many things to say, and yet I remain silent.
“If you don’t go after what you want, it’s a guarantee you won’t get it.” Pops’ words echo through my brain, and my stomach churns with every repetition.
“Everything okay, big guy?” Micah’s voice is cautious. I try for a smile to reassure him.
“All good. Got a lot on my mind.”
“I’m a good listener.”
I raise my eyebrows.
“Fine. Maybe not with everyone but apparently, you’re the exception. Who knew?”
He sounds chagrined, and that’s so completely Micah that I can’t stop a huge grin from forming.
“What? Don’t read anything into it, Troy. I’m only being a good friend here,” he says in a slightly defiant tone, but the curve of his lips tells me he’s more amused than grumpy. I can work with that.
Since I can’t seem to talk about my feelings, I decide to share my career news.
“Got a text from my agent the other day. FRC wants to put me on the card for next month’s match.”
“FRC? And who exactly are they?”
“Front Range Combat. Professional match.”
“Sweet! That’s fucking cool! Congrats, man!”
“It’s pretty cool, I guess.”
“Oh no, my guy. You do not sound happy. Why not? Are they screwing you over on money or something?”
“What? No, of course not. I mean it’s my first match. It probably won’t be much of a purse, especially after everyone gets their cut.”
“Well, that’s a bunch of bullshit. Why even do it then?”
“Because it gets much better the more you fight. Take Suerte. He’s been a pro for a few years now, and he fights about four times a year. He’s doing well enough that he quit bouncing at the club. Got himself a cool loft not too far from the gym.”
“Alright, what’s up with the attitude?”
“I have attitude?”
“For you, this is a definite attitude.”
By now, we’re both grinning.
“That’s rich coming from you.”
“Hey! I didn’t say you were in any way as good at it as I am, but I can see the potential here.” He grins while waving a hand in my direction. Smart ass.
“So much sass.”