Semi-Edited!
Guys look at this AMAZING Cover made by @innocent9146 !! Isn't it incredible! I love it <3
Song above is...Saving Grace by The Maine. Thought it fit #Cage :D
"Remember this assignment is due in one week. Now have a good rest of the week. No class on Thursday." Mr. Waite my english teacher said as he dismissed us after an hour of class. Like everyone here I was glad we had Thursday off which meant I had no classes that day.
"I think we should get started today." I said standing up and bringing my bag up to my shoulder.
"Princess he literally just said we have a week to do this." Gage said standing up as well.
"Doesn't hurt to get it done early." I pointed out.
"Doesn't hurt waiting a few days." He shot back at me as he lead us out of the class room. "Plus I have a fight tonight." We made our way out of the english building before coming to a stop at the section where it split to different buildings.
"You are coming along." He added.
"Wait you want me to come to the fight with you?" I was surprised he wanted me to go with him not that I was complaining. I actually wanted to go and see him fight again. There was something so cool and fascinating about watching Gage fight. He just moved so graceful and with such power it was just great to see.
Gage looked at me with a are-you-kidding-me look.
"Didn't I just say that?" I bit back a grin at that. "After your last class just meet me by my building and we can go from there."
"Okay I get out around 3 but if I get out earlier than I'll text you." Gage just nodded and stood there awkwardly.
Even though we bonded even more at the football game on Saturday we were still at the awkward, not sure how to be around one another. We were getting better but still not quite sure how things were suppose to be.
"Okay well I um yes." Was all Gage said before he turned and headed in the opposite direction I was heading in. I laughed softly under my breath. It was a nice change seeing Gage so unsure of himself around me. His normal don't care, fuck it all type of attitude hasn't been present lately.
Feeling kind of giddy I headed towards my next class, Art, with a smile on my face. It has only been about a day and a half since the football game and I had to say things were going okay for us. Yes I know two days isn't enough to feel much but I felt good around Gage. He made me feel different, made me feel like I wasn't 'the golden boys sister'. He actually made me feel like he wanted to be around me for me, not for what I have or stand for.
Going to the football game was a good idea. Both Dylan and Gage got really into it and by the end of it they were up cheering like the rest of us, well maybe not cheering but clapping. It was nice seeing both boys get out of their comfort zones and actually enjoy doing something else. Gage I knew would deny it to no end that he enjoyed himself but I knew he did.
******
Flashback...
"They won." Dylan said in a stunned tone. I looked over him smiling while shaking my head.
"You seem so surprised."
"Well...yeah!" Next to me Macey just laughed.
"True sign you've never been to a game. They haven't lost since last year and that was like their 2nd game of the season." All four of us slowly made our way down the aisle to get out. We had stayed back to let most of the crowd leave but there were still some trickling out.
"You've been to every game?"
"Yeah. Well not every single game but every home one. Macey and I always go to support my brother and Ethan." It has always just been a think we do.
"Dedication man." Dylan whistled.
"Don't you go to every one of Gage's fights?" I asked.
"Yes. I am his manager slash coach." I raised an eyebrow at that and Gage just shoved him.
"He is not any of those." Gage grunted.
"More like cheerleader huh?" Macey supplied a wide smile on her face. She enjoyed being around these two just as much as I did.
"I am not a cheerleader!" Dylan defended holding a hand to his heart.
"Dylan you are. You stand on the side lines being his own cheerleader. But no worries it is very adorable."
"I don't want to be adorable." He mumbled.
"But you are." I reached up and rubbed his head, messing up his hair.
"Hey!" He slapped my hand away and fixed his hair. Giggling we walked towards 95 Degrees where Ethan, Gage and Amy will met us.
"Where are we going?" Gage asked after a few minutes.
"We are going to 95 Degrees to eat. It is kind of what we normally do after a game. That okay with you guys?"
"Uh Carter can I talk to you for a second?" Macey suddenly said grabbing my elbow and pulling me away from the guys. When we were a good distance away did Macey finally say something.
"What?" I asked more than confused.
"Have you forgotten how much Luke and Ethan hate both Dylan and Gage?" With that it was like I crashed back into reality. How could I have forgotten neither of them like the other two. "If Dylan hadn't joked with them about sleeping with you they would probably tolerate him, but Gage is a whole other story. And now that they know you are 'dating' I don't think they will be please."
Gage and I dating. Dating... I had completely forgotten that Gage told Ethan we were one a 'date' last week when we got ice cream. He had to have told my brother by now what he saw and no doubt was my brother pissed. But if he had told him wouldn't have Luke talked to me about it before now? So did he know or not?
"Carter? Car?" Macey asked breaking me out of my thoughts.
"Macey I forgot they don't like each other! What are we going to do? And my brother probably knows about Gage and I!" I could feel myself starting to freak. My hands went up to my hair to pull on it while I thought about what my brother and even Ethan would do if they showed up at 95 Degrees with Dylan and Gage there.
It wasn't like there would be a blood bath but I that is all I could think about. Nothing good ever happened when guys hated each other were around one another. It just never worked out for the best. I did not want any of them to get hurt or to get in an argument.
"We can't take them to 95 Degree's with us or both boys will get pissed at them than us for hanging out with them. I do not want to get a talking to by Ethan, let alone my brother.
"But what if Luke knows I am 'dating' Gage and decides to make a big deal about it? I mean it isn't his business anyways but still what will happen? Shouldn't he have already had his bitch fit though cause it has been a week since we decided this." I rambled on, barely pausing to take a breath of air.
"Seriously Macey what are we going to do." I could feel a small panic attack slowly starting to form. My legs were unconsciously making me pace back and forth.
"Carter." Macey said firmly as she grabbed me by the shoulders to get me to stop moving and to focus on her. "It is going to be okay. We will tell Gage and Dylan what is going and see if they still want to go with us. If they don't okay, if they still want to eat dinner with us than Luke and Ethan will just have to deal with it. Okay?"
I forced my breathing to slow down as I took in Macey's words. That sounds like a good idea. If they do all the guys will just have to deal with it. That is okay, things will be okay. I silently chanted.
"Okay. Yeah, that sounds good." I nodded my small panic attack going away. While I was having my freak out I didn't notice Gage was on the phone with someone.
"Lets go and talk to them." Mace said before once again pulling me after her.
"You okay?" Dylan asked the moment we came to a stop in front of them.
"Yeah, great, perfect." He just raised an eyebrow at me but didn't say another word.
"So we have something we want to discuss with you two." Macey stated right away.
"Are you breaking up with us?!" Dylan gasped his eyes wide. That instantly made me feel better as I laughed at him.
"No. You see Ethan and Carter's brother Luke don't like you two. I don't know why Ethan doesn't but I know Luke doesn't because of your smart ass comment at the diner a while ago." Mace sent Dylan a look. "But anyways, since they aren't exactly fond of you two we want to make sure you still want to go with us to eat."
"We want you guys to come but just want to fore warn you that it could be awkward and what not if you come along." I said quickly, not wanting either of them to think we didn't want them to eat with us.
"Actually we have to go." Gage said. It was then I noticed he had his phone in his hand.
"Oh."
"There is a fight happening so Dylan and I have to go."
"Sorry to leave you guys." Dylan said sending us a sad smile. While it was an answer that we kind of needed I felt disappointed that neither of them were coming with us.
Here I was freaking out about them coming to eat dinner with us, now feeling disappointed when they can't come. Stupid I know. I couldn't get a hold of my emotions lately.
"That is okay. Kind of works out then." I said trying to make sure I didn't sound disappointed.
"Sorry." Gage said and I felt his gaze on me. I looked right at him. I was more than impressed that came with me today to the game and even considered going to eat out with us. This was something he would normally not do and I was beyond ecstatic that he went out of his comfort zone for me today.
"It is okay, no worries. But be careful tonight." I know Gage was good, well more than good he was great, at fighting but I couldn't help but worry that he would get hurt. Since I have known him after the first night we met he has not once come back with a bruise or anything. I just did not want that to change.
"Car you saying I don't know how to teach my man here?" Dylan asks pretending to be offended. He slung his arm around his best friend but it looked funny since he was shorter than Gage. I grinned as Gage glared at Dylan. We all knew Dylan had nothing to do with Gage being so great at fighting, Dylan was basically there for moral support I guess you could say. So yes he was Gage's cheerleader.
"That goes for both of you. I'd don't want find you guys in pieces." I didn't know if Dylan was fighting tonight but I was just as worried, if not more, for Dylan than Gage. Dylan told me a while ago that he doesn't fight that often but when he does he wins, which is good I guess.
"Are you saying you like me Princess?" Gage asked with a half lipped smile. I realized how that sounded out loud and felt myself blush.
"No I don't. I just don't want to waste anymore bandaids on you guys." I replied not meeting his gaze.
"You don't like seeing me hurt than." The smile on Gage's face was getting wider. Not bothering to reply I just shook my head at him. It was then I noticed I had moved until I stood in front Gage and was tilting my head up to talk to him.
"Just go already dufus."
"I think you will miss me too much."
"You think so highly of yourself." I said.
"These two need to get a room." I heard Macey whisper behind us to Dylan. Her comment made me even blush harder than I was before. I snapped my head over my shoulder to glare at her, only to find both of them looking at us with amused expressions.
"Dylan lets go." Gage said gruffly.
"He always ruins the fun." Dylan said but he still had a stupid grin on his face. In front of my Gage just rolled his eyes and sadly took a step back from me.
"Lets go."
"I'll see you late then." I said not wanting Gage to go.
"Don't worry Carty I will be back before you know it." Dylan pulled me into a quick side hug before walking around Gage. Like normal Gage he just said an awkward bye before turning to leave.
"Bye." I said softly after them but a wide smile broke out on my face when I saw Gage look back at me over his shoulder with a small smile of his own. Even though it was just a smile it made my night. Knowing that Gage didn't smile that often I felt special that he does for me once in a while.
"Come on love sick puppy, lets go." Macey interrupted my blissful haze. I turned away from the guys back walking away from us, and followed after Macey.
"Did you really have to say that?" I asked practically getting second hand embarrassment just thinking about her comment about me and Gage.
"Carter come on the sexual tension between you two is palpable you could cut it with a butter knife. I just said what everyone was thinking." She shrugged. Of course she would do that.
"Sometimes I wonder why I am friends with you." I muttered but I could tell she heard me from the shove she gave me.
"Now we don't have to worry about breaking up a fist fight tonight." She reasoned. Although I didn't like that Gage and Dylan left I knew things tonight would have turned out not so good if all four guys were in the same room.
I just couldn't help but already miss Gage already.
*****
My afternoon classes passed by quickly much to my content. I was looking forward to going with Gage to his fight. Sure I normally don't like fighting and what not but for some reason it was fun going. Maybe Gage was slightly starting to rub off on me.
When my last class of the day, math, got out I quickly made my way towards Gage's dorm building. Not sure if he would be there I sent him a quick text saying that I was on my way. I was slightly early since the professor let us all out 10 minutes early. While that doesn't sound like much it was when you have already been there over an hour. No one can take more than an hour of math in one sitting, or at least I couldn't.
My flats slapped against the concrete as I walked and my school bag banged against my thigh every so often. It was slowly starting to get cold here which I was excited for. For some reason I had a feeling this winter would be a good one. I normally am not a fan of the cold because I'm always cold but it is always nice when you get to wear a sweater and jeans, or sit at home drinking hot chocolate.
Like every girl on campus I was taking advantage of the warmer weather while it lasted. With a pair of white shorts and a cute long-sleeve flowery top. I had on a pair of simple black flats. I knew that only for a few more weeks it would start to get too cold to wear shorts so why not make the most of it now.
It didn't take me long to reach the dorm building. I was coming from the east side so I couldn't see Gage just yet. Coming around to the front I noticed a figure leaning against the wall. Their hands were in their front pockets and the persons head was leaned back against the brick of the building.
Gage.
A smile spread across my face at the sight of him. The small worry that he wouldn't show up disappeared. Taking a minute to look at him I slowly made my way towards him. My heart was beating inside my chest and I didn't know why. The closer I got to him the faster my pulse raced. Taking a calm breath I came to a stop in front of him.
Gage looked like he just stepped out of a magazine as he leaned against the building. If it was even more possible he got more attractive since I last saw him a few hours ago. His brown hair still looked perfect while mine probably looked like a bird had a nest in it.
"Ready to go?" His deep voice broke me out of my trance. I couldn't find my voice so I just nodded. When he pushed off the wall and stretched up I just noticed how tall he was. Why have I just noticed that now? I wondered. Not really knowing what I was doing I followed along side Gage as we headed for his car.
"Where is Dylan?" I found myself finally asking after a few minutes of walking.
"He still has class so he will come later." I remembered that Dylan never misses a fight so why were we heading out so early?
"Your fight is later tonight?" He nodded. "Why are we leaving so early? It is only 3:15?" I glanced at the time on my phone in my hand.
"Because we are going to continue with your training today." I winced at that. I can still remember how sore I was the next day and how Gage totally kicked my butt that day.
"Do I have to? I came along because I thought you were going to fight, not me." I groaned. As much fun as it is getting my ass handed to me by Gage I wasn't in the mood.
"Who said you had a say in this?"
"Me the one who's body is going to be tortured."
"You over exaggerate." Gage just waved me off. I didn't get a chance to say anything else before we reached his jeep.
"Why are we even doing this now. Can't you 'over train' or whatever it is called?" I asked as we started driving to the gym the underground fighting was held at.
"There is nothing else to do and it is boring just sitting around waiting for my fight tonight. It is at 6 so we have a while to wait." He shrugged. "Plus I can get some training in."
"Wait hold up. Training? Are going to train with me, as in use me to be your punching bag?!" I stared at him with wide eyes. No way was that going to happen. I would break under a good punch by him. I'm what the Italian call fragile. (sorry I have to ask but please tell me if anyone else says it like the dad on Christmas Story?)
"Yeah I am going to pretend you are my opponent and go all out on you." He deadpanned. I raised my hand up at that.
"How am I suppose to know." Gage shook his head at me while sighing loudly.
"Ask me again why I put up with you?" He asked glancing at me than back to the road.
"Because of my award winning personality." I flashed my teeth at him while batting my eyelashes. "Or my stunning good looks. Or that fact that I am just plain awesome. Take your pick."
"More like none of the above." He muttered under his breath but I caught it.
"Hey!" I shoved his arm.
"Don't make me crash my car Carter." He warned at me but I could see his was trying hard to fight a smile.
I turned to look out the window as we made our way to the gym that wasn't too far from us. While the gym wasn't in a terrible neighborhood, considering is was so close to campus, but it still didn't look great. A tad bit run down but that means nothing. Sometimes the best places are the ones that may not look the greatest. And sometimes the best looking places are the worst.
It didn't take long for Gage to pull into the parking lot and park. Grabbing just my phone I put my bag in the backseat of his car out of sight. While I did that Gage jumped out and rounded the back grabbing what looked like a gym bag.
I was still impressed by how they made this place look so run down when the inside was in great condition. It of course looked worse at night but in the daylight you could almost see the beauty the building use to be back in the day. People differently made sure no one would look twice at this place unless you knew what it really was for.
When we entered the place and went down the stairs leading to the fighting/gym area I could hear the metal of punching bags squealing, meaning they were in use. A few grunts and groans could be heard as well. What sounded like rock, or metal kind of music played softly in the speakers; loud enough to be heard but soft enough you could comfortably talk to someone instead of yelling.
Just like last time I was here 'training' with Gage there weren't too many people here. When we headed towards where the lockers where everyone we passed gave Gage a nod of either recognition or a nod of respect, not sure which. He nodded back to a few of them but didn't say a word. Maybe Gage was more popular here than I thought.
"So what exactly are we going to do here?" I asked as we came to the lockers.
"I am going to teach you more about some basic fighting techniques. Nothing too extreme." As he started on taking a different out of his gym bag did I realize I had nothing to change into. I couldn't do this in what I am wearing. Sure last time I was kind of in the same thing but I knew better this time around. My clothes were soaked and I felt even more disgusting having to wear them home.
"Uh Gage?" I asked as he had his back to me.
"Hmm?" He didn't even look over at me, busy doing something with his clothes or bag.
"I uh don't have anything to change into." I don't know why I suddenly felt so shy about saying that. This time he did turn around and look me up and down. I felt hot under his gaze and almost covered myself up even though what I was wearing was not revealing at all. The only thing showing were my legs and they were nothing to brag about.
He didn't say a word as he continued on looking over me. His eyes did stray to my bare legs a few times but before I could really think about it he'd move them away. Gage's gaze made me feel small. I wasn't super attractive by any means with average looks. I knew I wasn't ugly but standing next to someone as hot as him I felt very inadequate.
All of my insecurities were coming up full force. It didn't help my insecurities when I remembered what happened with my last boyfriend. Being cheated on and throw aside like trash really does a number on you. You can't help but think that something was wrong with you and that is why they cheated. That maybe you weren't as great as you had thought or hoped.
When my ex, Quinton, cheated on me I had thought for the longest time that it was because I wasn't good enough. I was no where near as pretty as the girl he cheated on me with, Rebecca. She was like Amy, perfect in every way possible while I was like her adoptive less attractive and boring sister. It was obviously a mystery as to why I got him as a boyfriend.
So standing here with him staring at me like that I once again felt not good enough. Not good enough for a guy like Gage to give a second look at. I wanted to be like Amy or even Macey and act all confident and sexy right now but I couldn't. I was just average Carter that had nothing to brag about, and had no idea how to even woo a guy.
"Hey Chris!" Gage yelling brought me back to the present. Wondering who he was yelling too I followed his gaze to a nice looking guy that was standing in front of a punching bag.
"Yeah?" He called back taking a step away from the bag and facing our direction. From here I could see how big his arms were and they were coated with sweat. There was something weirdly hot about that.
"Is Tiff still around?" Gage asked.
"Yeah I think she just went into the changing room. Why?"
"Just need to ask her for a favor." Was all Gage said. The guy, Chris, just nodded and returned to his work out.
"Who is Tiff?" I asked. A sudden wave of jealous came over me making me pause. What the hell?
"She is going to help you out." Just as he said that I noticed a very pretty blonde come walking out of a hallway, which I guess was the dressing rooms. As Gage called her over to us I couldn't help but stare at her. She was beyond gorgeous. What looked like really long blonde hair was pulled into a tight ponytail. A pink form fitting tank top cupped her curves and showed off her amazing thin body. Black yoga pants encased her long, thin but probably muscular legs. Everything about her screamed woman to me.
"Hey Gage." She beamed as she came to a stop in front of us. Now standing beside her and Gage I felt even uglier than before. When she smiled I caught a flash of perfectly straight white teeth. Her eyes were an amazing shade of green, which normally didn't happen with blondes.
"Hey Tiff. This is Carter. Carter this is Tiffany." Gage introduced us. I noticed how friendly he was towards her and it made me even more jealous. He wasn't like that with me, not even now was he like that.
"Oh this is Carter." She said and raised an eyebrow at me. I waited for the rude remark to come or some kind of sneer at me but instead I was surprised when she smiled widely at me and came to give me a hug.
I was crushed against her and awkwardly stood there not really knowing what to do. It wasn't everyday a stranger hugged you.
"It is great to finally meet you." I looked at her confused. Has Gage been talking about me? Just the thought of that made my heart race pick up. "Everyone was talking about you from when you pinned Gage down a few weeks ago. Once I heard someone managed to get Gage off his feet I just had to met you."
"Tiff." Gage hissed but she just waved him off.
"Ignore him, he is always in a pissy mood." There was something about her I could not help but like. Maybe it was the fact that she didn't seem to care and she kind of had this bad ass feel to her. "What did you need?"
"Carter here doesn't have anything to change into. Can she wear something of yours?" I looked over at Gage with a raised eyebrow. There was no way I could fit into something of Tiffany's, she was way too skinny and taller than me; and boobier.
"Of course! I think I have something perfect for you to wear. Come on." She didn't even wait for my reply before grabbing my elbow and pulling me after her. I looked over my shoulder at Gage but he didn't seem concerned of leaving me in her care. I guess if he liked her I should to. Gage didn't seem like the type to like or trust people easily.
"Finally another girl here! Gosh I swear it is always just guys here or if their are girls they are just random sluts." Tiffany said as she dragged me into the dressing room. "And finally Gage has a girl, never thought I'd see the day but I had hoped." She rambled on. I had no idea what to say so I stayed quiet.
"You don't talk much do you?" She asked.
"Oh no I do I just didn't know what to say. You just surprised me." I admitted.
"Don't worry I get that a lot. Sometimes I come off a bit strong."
"I like it." And I wasn't lying. While Tiffany did seem talkative and straight forward I seemed to like that about her. She seemed to have a strong head which was good.
"I knew I liked you." She smiled over at me. "Anyways lets get you changed." She let go of my arm as we came to a bench that held a single black bag.
"You don't have to-" I started to say but she cut my off.
"It is okay I always have another outfit with me just in case. Now lets see." She bent over looking in her bag as I stood awkwardly off to the side. Yep awkward was my middle name.
"I think this will fit you." She got back up and trusted a pair of clothing at me. I looked at the bundle then back at her. I wasn't quite sure they were going to fit. "Go try them on." She urged. Sighing inwardly I headed for an empty stall right across from where we were.
Taking off my blouse I grabbed the tank top Tiffany gave me. Tugging it on I found it did fit me but was very hugging. It clung to my upper body like a glove. It didn't feel tight and it wasn't, it was just one of those materials that just clung to you. Sliding my shorts off I grabbed the pants. Just like with the top they weren't as small as I thought they'd be.
The pants were just like the top though, they clung to my legs like no ones business. It was a little snug in the waist area but nothing terrible. They weren't too tight where I couldn't breath and I was reminded of how I feel when I put leggings on at first. I almost didn't want to leave the stall afraid of how frumpy I will look. I knew I would not look as good as Tiffany did in this outfit. I bet had some fat hanging out unattractively.
"Come on out!" Tiffany said from the other side of the stall.
"Okay one second." Taking a deep breath I braced myself for hating what I will see. When emerged from the stall I heard a wolf whistle coming from Tiffany who was standing a few feet from me.
"Wow girl you look hot!" She exclaimed. I blushed under her compliment. Biting my bottom lip I went over to a full length mirror off to the side. Once again I braced myself to see my image.
When I did look at myself I was shocked. All the fat I thought would be hanging out wasn't. It was like the pants and top sucked it all in. Instead of what I thought I looked good. The yoga pants hugged my legs, making them look longer than they really were and thinner. The tank top hugged my body, making my curves stick out more and surprisingly my boobs looked bigger too.
"Woah." I breathed out. Who knew her outfit would have really fit me.
"Gage is not going to be able to take his hands off of you." Tiffany said from behind me. She had her arms crossed over her chest and was grinning smugly.
"I don't think so. He doesn't like me like that." I said and frowned at myself in the mirror. Even looking like this he wouldn't do anything. I felt a pang in my chest at that. Did I want Gage to think of me like that? Maybe I did.
"Don't worry he will." Tiffany reassured me. I forced a smile at her and turned away from the mirror. I grabbed my clothes so I could put them with Gage's stuff. "I cant' wait to see his face." Tiffany practically bounced as we headed back towards the gym area.
"Thank you for letting me borrow these." I said. I wanted to thank her now before we got out there.
"No problem. You can keep them too if you want. I have so many at home."
"Seriously?"
"Definitely. Plus it looks better on you than me." She sent me a wink. I gave her a smile back feeling like I just made a new friend today.
The closer we got to the gym area the more excited Tiffany became and the more nervous I did. I had no clue why I was. It was like I was worried that Gage would not approve of what I was wearing, which was stupid.
When we stepped out my eyes search for the familiar body. Immediately they landed on Gage's form who was now wearing a loose white tank top that showed his arm tattoo off. He had on a pair of those soccer looking sweats that hugged his muscular legs. He was over talking to that guy named Chris.
Tiffany lead us towards them and I felt butterflies in my stomach for some reason. When we got closer both guy's heads snapped up to look at us. Gage's brown eyes found mine but they didn't stay on my eyes, instead they traveled down my body. Forcing my arms to not cover myself up I tried to act like his gaze wasn't affecting me. Beside me I could see a smug grin on Tiffany's face as she looked at Gage.
It was like Gage's eyes were burning through my clothes and leaving a hot trial behind it. I felt like I was on fire as his eyes raked up and down me. I felt so exposed in this outfit even though a lot of me was covered up.
I came to a stop a little bit aways from Gage expecting Tiffany to do the same. Instead she went right up to that guy Chris and gave him a kiss. That makes sense now. All the jealousy I felt towards disappeared that instant.
"Doesn't she look good Gage?" Tiffany asked her voice dripping with smugness. I wanted to tell her to stop but I couldn't find the words to do so. I wanted to hear Gage's reply almost as bad as Tiffany did.
There was an awkward silence as no one talked. I shifted from foot to foot not liking the way no one was saying something, and doubled with Gage's stare I was feeling a little uncomfortable.
"So are we going to train?" I finally said something, my voice coming out all squeaky though. That finally seemed to do it for Gage cleared his throat and looked anywhere but at me. I could see his cheeks were a slight pink color and the tip of his ears were too. Pride swelled inside of me that I was able to make him look at me and get embarrassed for checking me out.
"Yes." Was all he said before turning and headed towards the ring. With a wink from Tiffany and a smile from Chris I padded barefoot after him. I felt a few stares on me as I headed for the ring where Gage was at but ignored them.
When I got to the ring Gage was kind enough to hold the ropes down for me to go through. Once I was inside I was once again struck with how big the thing really was. It looked a lot smaller from the ground.
Being inside of here I almost felt like I was put in a cage with an animal about to go off, Gage being the animal. He seemed to prowl around the length of the ring while I stood there watching him. It was like getting in a cage with an hungry animal right now.
"Okay lets start." I knew those three words meant nothing good was coming.
******
"Come on fat boy." I taunted as I bounced on my toes. My arms were slightly shaking from what Gage had put me through but I ignored it. I was dripping with sweat and I was tired and hungry but messing with Gage made me forget all of that.
"What did you just call me?" Gage asked raising an eyebrow. He didn't look angry instead he looked offended that I called him fat.
"You heard me, dough boy." I giggled out. I couldn't help myself. I was feeling pretty good right now and wasn't quite sure if it was because I was exhausted or cause I was hungry. Either way I was feeling confident and sassy, something that probably didn't bode well.
I continued on bouncing on the balls of my feet like I was a boxer waiting to fight. I had my arms up in fists and in a quick movement I jabbed them out. I would make a pretty damn good boxer if I say so myself. Along with Gage's moves he taught me I feel like I could take on anyone right now.
"Come at me Gage. I can take you." I taunted him. While I was all sweaty and tired Gage had barely broken a sweat. His hair still looked like it did at school. It is nearing 5 and we had been here about 2 hours give or take; to me it felt like forever.
"Oh you think so?" Gage asked taking a step towards me now. He raised his arms up and flexed them. My blue eyes snapped towards them seeing the nice big muscle there. Why did he have to be so hot and distract me from what I was going? He wasn't playing fair and he knew it.
"Y-yeah."
"Okay you asked for it." That was all he said before he suddenly came at me. I let out a squeak moving away from him. Gage reached out to grab me but I quickly moved to the side and ran back towards where he once stood. Running was a great option I tell you!
"Princess you can't get away from me." His voice had gotten lower and raspier which just made my knees weak. Once upon a time I hated when he called me princess because the way he said it made it sound like I was a bitchy person who got whatever she wanted. But now I liked it. He said it in a different tone now a days and it made me feel special in a way. Definitely a lot better than before.
"I can and I will!" I shouted towards him trying to sound confident, something I was starting not to feel.
Facing him I tried to see what he would do but he was perfect at masking his face so I wouldn't know what he was thinking. He always had something new up his sleeve, no wonder he never lost in a fight.
"Come at me bro." I said with one finger pointed at him, signaling for him to come at me. I had no clue why I kept egging him on but it was fun. I know he won't really do anything to me but it was funny watching his expressions as well as his attempts to get me.
I could see him getting slightly angry now that I dodged his move. He was getting tired of me messing with him, while I was just getting started. I was grinning like a maniac and I bet my eyes were shining as I looked at Gage. He didn't even make a sound as he ran towards me, faster than I thought.
I did not have a chance to move out of the way or to even shield myself before his hard body hit mine. The weight of him on top of me made my legs buckle from underneath of me. My back slammed against the mat with his heavy ass body on me. The breath was knocked right out of me and I felt like a truck was sitting right on me. At least my head didn't hit the mat too hard.
Gage didn't even make a move to get up off of me. Groaning I lifted my head up to look down at Gage. My eyes clashed with a pair of brown eyes. Gage's head was right near mine that if I tilted my head down our lips would meet.
Being this close to him I notice how light his brown eyes were. At first I thought they were just a dark brown but no. They were a brown but they had specks of gold flakes in them. I know from experience though that they darken when he is angry. Wonder what makes them darker as well. The perverted part of my brain decided to wonder.
His warm breath fanned my face and I couldn't help but wonder if my breath smelled horrible. I was panting all over him. His body was heavy over mine but I didn't mind it, it felt nice to have it there.
All different thoughts and emotions were running through me right now and I couldn't get a lid on them. Laying here like this was making weird things happen to my stomach. Being this close to him and looking in his eyes made me want to kiss him. I thought I had wanted to kiss him the other day at his grandma's but this feeling was doubled. I wanted nothing more than to slam my lips against his and see what he tasted like. I knew he was a good kisser, he had to be, but I wanted to find out for myself.
All my life I have waited for that special kiss, the one that makes your toes curl and your leg pop. I have yet to feel that with someone and looking at Gage I felt that maybe he was the one to do that for me. Just being around him made me feel like a whole new person and I liked that.
Gage and I didn't say a word for the longest time, just stared at one another. I don't know what he was looking for in my face. This close up I knew he could see everything on my face. Every line, every acne scar, every freckle I had on my face. My makeup had run off by now with my sweat so I was bare faced, making me even more vulnerable.
The longer we stared at one another the hotter it seemed to get in the room. The small space between our faces were now mixed with both of our breaths. I was trying my hardest to force down the want/need to kiss him. To feel his soft pink lips against mine. I had no clue what he was thinking, for all I knew he was thinking about food. Oh how I wanted him to be thinking of kissing me as well.
"Yo love birds! You guys gotta get going, they need to set up for the fight!" Tiffany yelled off to the side of the ring. Once again our moment was ruined by someone else. If it wasn't Macey it was Dylan; if it wasn't Dylan it was someone else. If Dylan hadn't interrupted us at Gage's grandma I was certain we would have kissed. But no and here we are again in the same situation.
I was inwardly kicking myself for waiting. I should have kissed him when I had a chance to now it is all ruined. The moment was gone as well as the heat between us, now just leaving awkwardness at its finest. I wished for once I was the type of girl to just cease the moment but I was not that girl. I didn't kiss the guy when I wanted to. Hell I can't even tell Ethan I have had a crush on him forever.
With our moment gone Gage now made his way off of me. Gone was the nice warmness of his hard body against mine, leaving my lonely sweaty body on the floor. Forever alone. He reached a hand down to help me up which I gladly accepted.
Neither of us said a word as we exited the ring, the tension between us heavy. Maybe Macey was right, the sexual tension between us was thick. I watched with a sinking feeling as Gage walked right over to his stuff and into the other changing room for guys. He did not once look back at me or say a word. He left me there staring after him feeling hurt.
Was I the only one that felt that back there? Was it all in my head? He probably had to get away from me before I did something he would not like. Guess my whole outfit didn't help, nothing did. Once again I was the nothing girl.
Sighing I went over to grab my own clothes that were by Gage's. I picked up my phone and saw a message from Macey, my brother, and my mom. I quickly answered all only telling Macey the truth. As I hit sent to her another familiar voice called my name behind me. Turning I smiled at Dylan who made his way over to me.
"Hey." I grinned forcing all my sad thoughts to the side.
"Hey, what are you doing here?"
"Gage and I came earlier. He said I needed to 'train'." I put air quotes on it. I was already feeling sore and it hasn't even been that long. I bet I even had a few bruises.
"Did you kick his ass like last time?" Dylan asked smiling.
"Sadly no he kicked mine. I am so tired." He nodded in understanding but he didn't look sad for me at all.
"Where is he anyways? Is he getting for his fight in a little bit?" Dylan looked around for him.
"He went off into the changing room." I gestured that way ignoring the pang in my chest.
"Oh okay. I will go get him. They changed the time so Gage will fight about half an hour sooner." He explained. I had almost forgotten Gage still had to fight tonight.
As Dylan walked off to get Gage I took a seat on the bench. I didn't know where to go now and with Gage being my ride I couldn't just leave. I just noticed now people were starting to come in, the place slowly filling up. I know most were here to see Gage fight. I didn't know we were training for so long until now.
Not even a few hours ago was I excited to see Gage fight now I wasn't so sure. Things were going to be tense around us tonight. It was because of him honestly not me. I did nothing so if he was going to act stupid around me than that is his own fault.
Waiting for Gage and Dylan to come out I sat on the bench texting Macey and keeping an eye out for the two. I did not like being out here alone. There were some weird people here that I did not want to come in contact with. This was definitely not my crowd.
Thankfully only 10 minutes later did I see Gage and Dylan coming out of the changing room together. I breathed out a sigh of relief glad to have them near me again. I felt a lot safer with them by my side. Seeing them making their way towards me I gathered my stuff quickly and went to meet them halfway.
"Hey." I said once I made it through the bodies on the floor. This place filled up fast!
"Lets go to the room." Was all Gage said before grabbing my hand and tugging me after him. Thank god for him pulling me or else I would still be in the same spot. Gage voluntarily grabbed my hand! I thought he was upset with me or something but by the way he was holding my hand he seemed fine now.
When we got to the same room Gage has been in every time I come here things happened so quickly. The next thing I knew I was sitting on the couch watching Dylan tape up Gage's hand while they talked quietly with one another. Gage still wore his outfit that he had on with me so I guess he was fighting in that, but now his shirt was off exposing his abs. Definitely drool worthy and I couldn't take my eyes off of them.
I was busy watching Dylan wrap Gage's hand, as well as peaking at his abs, that I didn't notice Gage watching me. I was in my own little world there for a few minutes as they got all ready for the fight about to happen. I could feel the energy coming through the door and knew Gage was feeling it too. He was pacing and bouncing on his toes every so often. He was ready to fight.
Before I even knew it the door was opening and they were telling Gage he was up. I quickly stood up ready to go out with him and stand in the front row watching.
"Carter." Gage said my name for the first time since our training. He came to stand in front of me, his bare chest distracting me for a good few seconds. "You need to stay by Dylan's side the entire time." I nodded agreeing with him on this. Without Dylan I'd be lost.
"I will." I said as I looked up at him.
"He will make sure you are okay. This shouldn't last long." I watched shocked as his hand came up and brushed a piece of my hair off my face. My breathing hitched as his finger grazed the side of my cheek.
"Okay." I once again squeaked out. Gage did something to me that no one else ever has.
"Good." With a firm nod he backed up and headed for the door. Going after him I felt Dylan slide up beside me and stay close to my side. Both us trailed after Gage as he entered the yelling crowd. It was almost like we were back at the football game with everyone yelling and cheering for him. It was almost deafening as we pushed our way through. Who knew he had such a big fan base.
We stood in the front row as Gage entered the ring his opponent already there. From one look at the guy I was not worried about Gage. He would do just fine. With the entire crowd roaring Gage's name I stayed right next to Dylan, trying hard not to fall from the pushing of the crowd, and kept my eyes glued to Gage.
Like I predicted the match didn't last long at all. In a matter of minutes Gage had the guy on the ground knocked out clean. The guy never once touched Gage but I couldn't say the same about him. He would definitely wake up with tons of bruises tomorrow. Gage was a beast in the ring.
Gage didn't do any celebration lap or anything instead he got right out of the ring and headed towards me. I gave him a smile and a thumbs up. I was rewarded with a smile, a very breath-taking one. Knowing he wouldn't grab my hand in this crowd I followed after him as we headed back to the room, Dylan behind me.
Thankfully the cheering was muted as we shut the door behind us. With the noise blocked out is felt suddenly really quiet. My stomach decided that moment to make noises voicing how hungry it was. In the quiet room it seemed louder than usual. I hadn't eaten anything since lunch earlier so I was starving.
"We can go eat." Gage said chuckling.
"Finally." I breathed out. I wanted to eat hours ago! Beside me Dylan agreed with me. Of course he would tag along for food, it was almost like he was my other half.
"Let me hurry and change than we can go." Gage went into the bathroom to change while Dylan and I decided on where we should go eat.
Things were back to normal between Gage and I which was weird. I could not help but wonder what happened earlier but no way was I going to ask. Sometimes things were better left unsaid or unasked in this case.
It didn't take long for him to change and in just a few minutes we were ready to go. In just a matter of minutes the crowd outside and cleared to only a few people. Under ground fighting did great business. Everyone knew when to leave so no one could get caught by the police, not that they could do anything about it.
With the place emptying we made our way up the stairs. I was walking alongside them happy to finally go eat. It was only a little after 6:30 so there were plenty of places open. At least it wasn't too late so we could eat than head back. With classes the next day none of us wanted to stay out too late.
Just when I started to think this night was going well the moment I stepped outside the door I was suddenly pushed hard against the wall. I noticed than the three of us were surrounded by a group of guys. There looked to be about 6 of them and with it getting dark I couldn't see their faces all too well.
I was being pressed against the wall of the building by Dylan while Gage stood a little bit ahead staring at one of the guys. 6 against 3 was not very good and lets be honest it was 2 against 6 since I couldn't do much.
From where I was I could see Gage's lips moving but that was it. It was like a switch had been flipped making it silent. I couldn't hear anything but a ringing in my ears. I didn't hit my head so I wasn't sure what was going on. Words were being said between the men and Gage but nothing reached my ears. I tried to open my mouth to talk but something stopped me. A little voice in the back of my head was telling me to shut up and be silent.
Who were these guys? What is going on? What is Gage saying? All these questions ran through my mind quickly. An almost numb feeling was taking over me, I knew this feeling. Panic. I was pretty certain I was going into shock. Why? No idea it wasn't like anything was going on yet.
Just as I thought that all hell broke loose. The guy in front of Gage started swinging and instantly the rest of the men swarmed in. It was like I was watching it in slow motion. One second everything seemed fine and the next these guys were throwing punches at Gage.
I was suddenly let go of as Dylan went over to aid Gage. Dylan threw his arm out and knocked some guy right in the side of the head making him fall down instantly. If I wasn't in such a stage of shock I would have been impressed with how good he was.
I was pressed against the wall watching this all play out like a movie. Almost like the fighting in front of me wasn't real. When my eyes looked for Gage I noticed he was fighting multiple men and same goes for Dylan. I watched as one guy came up towards Dylan's back, his unguarded back. He was too busy fighting the guys in front of him he didn't seem to notice the other one coming up.
It was then everything snapped back into focus. Sound reached my ears and the smacking of fists against flesh was all I heard as well as grunts. Instead of feeling numb a new found energy escaped me. I continued on seeing the guy come up on Dylan rear and knew I had to do something. If I didn't Dylan could get really hurt. Gage was too busy with his guys to notice as well.
Not even thinking I found myself dropping my clothes and pushing off of the wall. Something inside of me bubbled up. Anger came up over me in waves.
Without a second thought I ran towards the guy coming up on Dylan and launched myself at him. No thoughts towards myself I entered the fight.
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Hi guys I'm back! It feels like forever since I wrote a chapter for you guys but in all honesty it has only a little over a week :D That is how addicted I am to Wattpad. As you know I got my wisdom teeth taken out. It was not as bad as I thought it would be AT ALL! Sadly I didn't do anything funny or something I could post to Facebook :( I am happy to say I am good to go now! All the stitches are gone and I have not taken a pain pill in two days! So basically I'm all good.
This is a super long chapter! (Over 10,000 words!) I made this one longer for you guys to make up for being gone. I do hope you like it! The ending did turn out different than I thought when writing this but I like it now. This is a good chapter to finally see how Carter is feeling about Gage and a little into his feelings as well.
**I want to answer this here. This book is NO WHERE NEAR DONE! It is only chapter 26 guys and things are barely happening. This story will continue for a while more. NO I do not know how many chapters, like my other stories I just write until I think I am done. Along with my new story "The Hidden Shadow" I will not post it until I am almost done with this story! This is my TOP PROJECT! This is not going on the back burner. I am still doing stuff for my new story so it won't be up quite yet.
For my new story I am posting my top favorite covers on twitter sent to me by you amazing people! I am having a hard time choosing so I thought you guys could help me. You guys can 'like' which one you like the most. I will be posting covers on twitter through out the week and what not so you can head over there. If you can't find it search #TheHiddenShadow and it should appear :) Thank you all who sent in covers! There are way to many great ones to choose from!
Anyways hope you enjoyed! As always....
VOTE, COMMENT, SHARE LOVE AND PEACE AROUND! The world is filled with such hate that it needs to stop. Things have gotten out of control and it needs to change immediately! I hope everyone is safe wherever you are!!!!!!
<3 <3 <3 <3
-Ken