Chapter Thirty-Four
Brittany
I had just closed up the diner for the night when Danny joined Lacey and me out in the front. He had looked much calmer and happier lately and there was a spring in his step that he still hadn’t explained. Lacey and I had been exchanging curious glances at him all day, but we hadn’t had the opportunity to talk yet.
“Let’s all have some pie together,” Danny said, sitting down at the breakfast counter.
“Umm… I didn’t make much in tips today,” Lacey said. “I think I’ll save my cash.”
“Don’t bother with that,” he told her, waving away Lacey’s excuse. “It’s on me today.”
“Seriously?” she said, glancing over at me. “I thought you said you were done handing out free food.”
“That was weeks ago,” Danny said. “Things have changed.”
Lacey and I exchanged another glance. I sat down opposite Danny just as he pushed two large pieces of pie towards us. “Danny…have you met someone?”
“Met someone?” he repeated with his mouth full.
“Yeah…a girl?” I asked. “Is that the reason you’re so happy lately?”
“I’m happy because of the diner, obviously,” he replied. “And, you two should be, too.”
“I don’t get it,” I said, shaking my head. “What about the diner?”
“I’m expanding it,” he announced. “Doing a whole renovation, changing the color scheme, increasing the staff, and I’ve even been inspired to change up the menu. I’ll really be able to focus on cooking now, instead of splitting half my time managing this place. I’m going to open the diner up for the dinner shift, too.”
Lacey and I looked at each other in amazement. “How the fuck do you have the money to do all that?” she demanded.
Danny raised his eyebrows and turned to me. “Talen didn’t tell you?”
“Tell me what?” I asked, shocked to hear Danny mention his name.
“About the diner?”
I sighed with impatience. “Does it look like I have any clue what you’re talking about, Danny?”
“Hmm…” he said. “Maybe I shouldn’t have said anything.”
Lacey grabbed the knife Danny had used to divide up the pie and pointed it right at him. “Spill the beans,” she threatened. “Now.”
He sighed dramatically. “Talen approached me yesterday and told me he wanted to invest in the diner. He wants to be a silent partner, so to speak. He’s the one giving me the money for all these changes.”
“Are you serious?” I asked in shock.
“Deadly serious,” Danny nodded.
“He didn’t speak to you about this?” Lacey turned to me.
“Not a word,” I said, shaking my head. “He’s really going to expand the diner with you?”
“Yup,” Danny nodded. “His main condition was that you and Lacey would get pay increases.”
“I knew I liked that guy the moment I saw him,” Lacey said, her face brightening instantly.
“Wait…he had other conditions?” I asked, catching on.
Danny hesitated a moment. “You want to know his other conditions… I think it’s best you talk to Talen yourself.”
“Danny-”
“Nope,” he said, shaking his head. “Investor/investee confidentiality. Can’t be broken, sorry.”
“You are insufferable,” I complained.
Danny took a big mouthful of pie and smiled at me happily. “I know.”
Lacey looked around the diner. “How much bigger is it going to get?” she asked.
“Double this size…at least,” he said happily. “I haven’t worked out all the details yet. But I’m thinking of hiring two sous-chefs and a couple more waiters and waitresses. I think putting a bar in the corner might also be a good idea.”
“A bar?” I repeated.
“We might need a bartender then, too,” Danny said, with a frown. “Hmm… and maybe a new television in that corner. What do you think about color schemes?”
“Black and white?”
“I was thinking something a little more subtle,” Danny said.
“Red and black?”
“Too aggressive.”
As the two of them discussing colors, my head spun. Talen wanted to invest in the diner… But why? Did that mean he wanted to put down roots in Quebec? And if so…did his reasons have anything to do with me? And, why hadn’t he mentioned it to me? And what else was Danny not telling me? I had a hundred questions, but I knew Danny wouldn’t talk if he didn’t want to.
“Yellow?” Danny’s voice cut through my thoughts. “Are you high?”
“Hey, look,” Lacey said, glancing out of the diner through the windows. “Looks like Prince Charming’s here to collect you, Cinderella.”
I saw Talen pulling up in front of the diner, and I grabbed my bag and headed for the door. “See you guys tomorrow.”
“So impatient,” I heard Lacey say – and in this case, she was totally right.
The moment I had shut the door of the passenger seat behind me, I turned to Talen. “You’re investing in the diner?”
Talen froze in place for a minute and then relaxed. “Danny told you, huh?” he said, as he turned away from the diner and headed back to my place.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I wanted it to be a surprise.”
“Oh,” I said. “Well, it was definitely that. What made you want to invest in the diner?”
“It obviously holds sentimental value to you,” Talen explained. “Plus you, Danny, and Lacey have put so much of yourselves into this place… It’s only fitting that it grow. I want to help that happen.”
“So technically, I’m going to be working for you now,” I smiled.
“Umm, not exactly,” Talen said, as his expression shifted a little.
I frowned. “What do you mean?”
“I asked Danny not to tell you that bit.”
“What bit?” I demanded, growing more and more impatient.
Talen pulled up outside my building, but he didn’t turn the engine off right away. He turned in the seat and took my hand. “I invested in the diner because of you, Brittany.”
“Me?”
“I’m investing on behalf of you.”
“I still don’t quite understand.”
“Part of the investment I made to the diner is in your name,” he explained. “Which means you have a certain amount of shares in the business, too.”
I just stared at him for a moment. “You are kidding me.”
“I am not,” he said firmly. “You can stay on as a waitress if you want, but even if you choose to quit, you still have shares in the diner. Which means you are entitled to part of the profit.
“It’s not much, but it’s enough to give you a little extra money every month. You’ll have the freedom to run your own life, get another job, go back to school… Anything you want, really. I did this so you could have the freedom to choose.”
“You really did this?” I asked in absolute amazement.
“I did.”
“For me?”
“For you.”
“I… I… I can’t quite believe this,” I said, in shock.
“I can give you a minute.”
“Talen…” I stammered. “This is too much… You already got me a car.”
He shrugged. “That car and this investment are two of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I don’t believe I’ll ever regret them.”
“Talen…”
“Come on,” he said, turning off the ignition. “Let’s go inside.”
In a daze, I grabbed my bag and headed into the building with Talen at my side. I was so flustered that I couldn’t even find my keys in my bag.
“That’s okay,” Talen said. “I have the spare set, remember?”
“That’s right,” I nodded. “Did you find your cell phone?”
Talen smiled and opened the door for me. The moment I stepped inside I knew everything was different. I turned on the lights and stared, spellbound at my transformed apartment.
It was small, but the completely reworked interior had breathed new life into it. It actually looked bigger, somehow. The furniture was different, the mats and rugs had been replaced with new ones, and there was a brand new television in the corner.
“I have a confession to make,” Talen said, closing the door behind us. “I didn’t actually leave my phone here this morning. I just needed an excuse to get your keys and get into your apartment.”
“You bought me a television,” I said. “And new furniture.”
“Yes.”
“Talen!” I said, turning to him in shock. “This is all too much. You’re doing way too much.”
“You’re not offended are you?”
“Offended?” I repeated. “No, of course not. I’m touched that you’d want to do all this for me, but it’s still too much. The car, the diner and now this… I won’t ever be able to repay you.”
“I don’t want to be repaid,” he replied firmly. “Your happiness is the only thing that matters to me. The look on your face right now is all I really need.”
“How did you do all this?” I stammered, turning around on the spot so that I could get a better look at all the changes.
“I’ll admit, I didn’t do it on my own,” he explained. “I called in some reinforcements. Ryan helped me look up really good local interior designers. The one we hired was named Meryl Preston. She was quite thrilled with the challenge of doing up a small space.”
“She did a brilliant job,” I said. “It actually looks bigger.”
“I thought so, too,” Talen nodded.
I walked through the whole apartment. Even my bed had been changed and replaced with a larger, more modern design. The bed sheets were crisp, clean, and the tags read “Laura Ashley.” I felt tears prick at my eyes as I saw all the changes he had made and the lengths he had gone to to make sure I was okay in life. In a matter of seconds, he had secured an entire future for me.
Yesterday, I had no real plan. I had nothing but bills and expenses and an infinite amount of working hours ahead of me. Now, my life seemed to stretch out in front of me and all I could see was possibility. I could find another job. I could go back to school, and I could even start a business of my own with the profit I would get from the diner.
When I turned around, Talen was watching me from the door. “Are you happy?” he asked.
His blue eyes were soft and beautiful, and still the brightness never left them. I wanted to tell him how much this all meant to me, but I knew I couldn’t find words large enough to express the full extent of what I felt.
“How can I not be happy?” I asked him. “This is all too much, no one has ever done so much for me…not even my own parents.”
“You don’t need your father to make something of yourself, Brittany,” Talen said emphatically. “You can do it all by yourself. It’s his loss, in any case.”
“Why did you do all this, Talen?” I asked, taking a step towards him.
He reached out and stroked my cheek with the back of his hand. “Because not long ago, I was in the same position you are now. Then I got a lucky break, and I found myself in a Las Vegas ring, competing against a MMA champion. After I won, I checked my bank account balance and realized that my winnings had come in. When I saw that money, all it represented to me was freedom.
“That’s why I did this, Brittany,” he continued. “Because I wanted you to experience that same feeling. I wanted you to be able to breathe and relax and enjoy your life. It’s too short as it is, why waste it on endless shifts when you have the potential to do more?
“That’s one reason I did it. But the bigger reason is a little simpler.”
“Which is?”
“I love you, Brittany,” Talen said softly. “Plain and simple.”
I felt my heart thud unevenly for a long moment. I heard the genuine tone of his words, and I saw the sincerity in his eyes. I felt my knees grow weak for a moment, but I kept standing.
“I love you, too, Talen,” I replied. I wanted to say more, but I realized it wasn’t necessary because those few words summed up the whole. Just like Talen said, it was plain, simple, and true.
Chapter Thirty-Five
Talen
I was just getting ready to get over to the marathon, when my phone went off. I managed to throw on my hoodie and grab it before the caller hung up.
“Hello?” I answered, thinking it would be Brittany.
A deep, calm voice on the other line answered. “Hi, little brother.”
“John?”
There was a chuckle on the other end. “It’s me,” he replied. “How are you doing?”
I sat down on the edge of my couch. “I’m doing good,” I replied.
Sam was the only brother who I stayed in regular contact with. I saw and spoke to Alan, Peter, and John mostly when I was in town and at their place for a meal.
“How about the injuries?”
“Still there,” I replied honestly. “Nothing a couple more weeks of rest won’t cure, though.”
“And…the swelling?”
I paused. “Umm… The doctor said there was a possibility it could get worse. If I were to continue fighting.”
“I see,” John replied.
I could tell he wanted to say more, perhaps even advise me, but was holding his tongue. It was common knowledge in the family that I hated getting advice.
I realized again how much I had distanced myself from everyone. I used to blame them for that, but now I realized that I was to blame. How could you have a relationship with someone you couldn’t talk to?
“How are you, John?” I asked, making an attempt at conversation.
“I’m good,” he replied. “Great, actually… I called you for a reason.”
“Oh?”
“Kami gave birth a couple of hours ago.”
“No way!”
I realized that her due date had snuck up on me because I was so caught up in my own little world. But I had known when the baby was due. Sam had mentioned it to me a couple of times, and the girls had spoken about it constantly at the hospital while they were keeping me company.
“Yup.”
“You’re a father.”
“I am,” he replied. I could sense the elation in his voice. “I’m the father of a beautiful, healthy baby girl.”
“Wow…a daughter?”
“Yes,” he chuckled. “She weighed in at eight pounds, three ounces. She’s got the Burbank family features, though – brown hair and hazel eyes.”
“Umm…the Burbank family features are brown hair and blue eyes,” I said, correcting John on behalf of Alan and myself; we were the blue-eyed ones in the family.
“Sorry, three against two,” John laughed. “Hazel wins out over blue.”
I sighed. “Fair point. What’s her name?”
“Natalie Alice Burbank,” John said proudly.
“Alice,” I repeated. “Mom’s name.”
“And, Natalie was Kami’s mother’s name,” John replied. “We thought it was fitting.”
“It’s a good name,” I said.
“Thanks,” he said, and I could sense the joy in his voice, even past the tiredness. “So…when are you coming down to see your niece?”
I hesitated. “As soon as I can,” I told him. “I really would like to see her. Could you send me some pictures?”
“Of course,” John agreed, sounding touched that I would even ask to see pictures.
“How’s Kami doing?”
“Exhausted,” he laughed. “She’s sleeping now.”
“I can imagine,” I said. “Now that you have Natalie, when are you two going to get married?”
“Ah, isn’t that the million dollar question,” John said. “Mom’s been at my throat with the question all day.”
“And?”
“Kami and I aren’t exactly traditionalists,” he replied. “She thought it would be a nice idea to have all the kids first so they can be there at the wedding. I’m pretty sure she was joking, but you never know with her.”
I smiled. “That’s an interesting idea. Personally, though, I’d probably want to have a wedding before the kids.”
“Do you?” he asked suggestively, and it was only then that I’d realized what I’d said.
“Umm…that doesn’t really mean anything,” I said a little too quickly.
John laughed. “Sam mentioned that you’re seeing a girl.”
“Sam never learned to keep a secret.”
“Is it a secret?”
“I suppose not,” I said. “It’s just…weird to talk about.”
“Why?”
“I’ve never really had a real relationship with a woman before,” I admitted. “This is a new experience for me.”
“Can it be possible that all five Burbank men are happily in committed relationships?”
I paused. “It could be…”
“Wow.”
I laughed. “Don’t go around spreading stuff,” I said quickly. “I am not getting married any time soon.”
“If you say so,” he replied, as though he wasn’t quite convinced. “Hey, hold on a second. There’s someone here who wants to say hello.”
I heard the phone being transferred, and a moment later, Peter was on the other end. “Hi, little brother,” he greeted, in his soft, sure voice.
“Hi, Peter,” I replied. “How are you?”
“I’m good,” he said.
“And, Madison?”
He chuckled. “She’s over in the corner holding little Natalie. I think when we get home tonight, there’s going to be a serious conversation about kids.”
“Are you braced and ready?”
“Maybe,” he replied. “It’s hard to think of it as a bad idea when you see a cute baby.”
“I’ll take your word for it.”
He was quiet for a moment. “How are you?”
“Recovering slowly,” I said. “I should be cleared to start training soon…in a few weeks at least.”
“And, you’re sure you want to continue fighting?”
“It’s what I’ve worked towards for the past few years,” I said. “How can I give it up now?”
“You’re not giving it up without reason, Talen,” Peter said gently. “Can I give you some well meant brotherly advice?”
I nodded. Then, I realized that Peter couldn’t see me. “Yes.”
“You wanted to be an MMA fighter, and you achieved that goal against all odds,” he said.
“And no one could be more proud of you than your family. But is it worth risking your health to continue to fight, Talen? You’re a smart man. You could do anything else. And from what I’ve heard, you have someone special in your life.
“Don’t throw it all away because you’re stubbornly holding on to the original plan for your life. Sometimes plans change…and sometimes those changes can lead you to bigger and better places. In the end, it’s your choice. I just wanted to say that.”
I smiled. “I know, Pete,” I said. “I’ve never really told you this before, but… I know you’ve always looked out for me. I haven’t always appreciated that, but now I do.”
“Good to know.”
“Give my love to Mom?”
“Of course.”
“Goodbye.”
“Goodbye, little brother.”
I hung up, feeling strangely sentimental. I grabbed my keys and headed over to the marathon area. Ryan was already there when I arrived.
“Have you seen them yet?” I asked.
“Not yet,” Ryan replied. “But I brought signs.”
I had asked him to get a sign ready for me, but it seemed he had brought one for himself, too. “Is that for Lacey?” I asked.
Ryan gave me a wink. “She’s going to love it, too.”
At that moment, I caught sight of Brittany in the throng of runners that had congregated under the massive Winter Marathon Banner. She looked amazing in running tights and a bright blue sports bra under a form-fitting running jacket. Her hair was tied up in a tight ponytail at the back of her head, and her blue eyes were on full display. She came straight towards us and threw herself into my arms.
“You came,” she said, with delight.
“Of course, I came,” I said. “I wouldn’t miss this for the world.”
“Where’s Lacey?” Ryan asked.
“Griping in the corner with Danny,” Brittany laughed. “You can go over and say hi before we start.”
Ryan walked off, leaving the signs face down on the pavement beside me. Brittany didn’t even notice them. She looked pumped and ready to run.
“Sorry I got a little late,” I told her. “My brothers called. Looks like I have a niece.”
“Congratulations,” Brittany said. “What’s her name?”
“Natalie after Kami’s mother, and Alice after mine,” I replied, showing her the pictures of Natalie that John had sent me.
“Oh,” Brittany cooed. “She’s precious…those eyes.”
I smiled. “Anyway, are you excited about the marathon?” I asked, turning back the focus onto her.
“Very,” she nodded. “I know I’m not going to be one of the first through, but doesn’t matter. As long as I’m not the last.”
“You’ll do great,” I said encouragingly.
“I’m pumped!”
“I can see that,” I laughed. “You definitely look ready.”
“I wish I could say the same for Lacey… I honestly don’t know how long she’ll last.”
We glanced over to where Lacey was standing between Danny and Ryan. Her sour expression said it all, and Brittany and I both burst out laughing. The start of the race was announced, and Brittany gave me a kiss before going off to join Lacey and Danny. Ryan joined me on the pavement and we cheered loudly as the whistle sounded and the runners took off in a great flurry of speed.
Ryan shook his head at the runners. “She’s never going to make it.”
I laughed. “Some boyfriend you are.”
He turned to me. “So…you and Brittany, huh?”
“Yeah… What about us?”
“Is it love?”
I smirked. “Do we have to talk about this now?”
“Come on, man,” Ryan complained. “We’re bros. This is what bros do.”
I rolled my eyes. “You are such a girl sometimes.”
“Answer the fucking question.”
I smiled. “It’s love,” I nodded confidently.
“First time?”
“Yup.”
“Is that why you invested in the diner?”
“Yes,” I nodded. “Partly for Brittany, but partly for myself, too. It’s nice to have a fall back option…just in case fighting doesn’t pan out.”
He looked at me curiously. “I thought you were adamant that you were going to continue fighting, no matter what?”
“We’ll see,” I said evasively. “You never know what the future has in store.”
Ryan looked at me carefully, but he understood that I wasn’t going to say anything more on the subject. We hung out for a while, drinking coffee and having weird conversations until the first runners were sighted. I grabbed my sign and waited, hoping to see Brittany at the front of the pack.
Ten minutes later, I caught sight of her turning the corner. Danny was with her, but Lacey was nowhere in sight. The moment I saw her, I turned the sign around and lifted it over my head. The sign read “that’s my girl” for the whole world to see. Brittany’s face broke out into a huge smile when she saw it. She crossed the finish line and then headed straight for me.
“I’m so proud of you,” I said, hugging her close.
“Urgh, I’m sweaty,” she protested, trying to pull away.
“I don’t care,” I said, resisting her pull.
“Umm…where’s Lacey?” Ryan asked, as Danny walked up.
Danny and Brittany exchanged a look. “She was dead weight,” Danny said. “We had to leave her behind.”
“She’ll make it, though,” Brittany said confidently. “I know she will.”
And half an hour later, she did. She wasn’t even running. She was just walking along as though she had all the time in the world. Her expression was still sour, but it was clear that she was relieved, too. The moment Ryan saw her, he grabbed the sign he had made for her and lifted it above his head. It read “At least you’re not last” – except that the last three words had been cut out and replaced with “you tried.”
Lacey saw the sign. Her eyes narrowed. She slowed her pace even further and threw us the finger as we burst out laughing together.
Chapter Thirty-Six
Brittany
“At least the fucking thing is over,” Lacey said moodily.
I laughed. “I loved the experience,” I said honestly. “I think I might actually take up running as a hobby.”
“Great, good for you,” she nodded. “Just remember that if you ever try and include me again, our friendship is over, got it?”
I suppressed my smile. “Loud and clear,” I nodded.
“Good.”
“Where are we meeting?” I asked as Lacey stretched out across my bed.
“A new club downtown,” she answered. “Danny said he’d text me the address. Damn, this bed is so freaking comfortable.”
I smiled, watching as she stretched and rolled over. “It is… I don’t think I realized how pivotal a good mattress is to a good night’s sleep until this beauty came along.”
“Are these Laura Ashley sheets?” Lacey asked, looking closely at the delicate print.
“It is.”
“Damn, boy has taste. I would never have expected it of him.”
“Well, he had a little help,” I admitted.
“Help?” she repeated. “Meaning?”
“He hired an interior designer.”
“No way,” she said, sitting up a little. “Seriously?”
“Yes.”
“He went through some trouble, huh?”
“He did,” I said, trying not to sound too ridiculously happy.
“Man, did you hit the jackpot.”
“I certainly feel that way,” I said. “And, trust me, I’m not used to feeling this way. It’s a little scary, actually.”
“Scary?” Lacey repeated.
“What if I lose him?”
Lacey frowned at me. “How would you lose him?”
“We could break up,” I said. “He could continue fighting and…”
Lacey got off the bed and walked over to me, seeing the distressed expression on my face. “Oh, hon… That’s what you’re really worried about aren’t you?”
“A little,” I said, gulping back my fear. “He’s already got swelling in his brain, Lace; if he continues to fight, he’ll only make it worse. The MMA is dangerous.”
“Have you told him your fears?”
“No,” I said, turning back to my wardrobe. “And, I’m not going to.”
“Why not?” Lacey asked.
“Because it’s not my place to tell him what to do,” I said. “This is completely his decision.”
“But you’re his girlfriend-”
“Exactly,” I said. “His very new girlfriend. I don’t have the right. It’s not like we’re married or something.”
“Meaning if you were married to him, you’d feel like you had a right to tell him?” she asked.
I hesitated. “Urgh… I don’t know. I honestly don’t.”
Lacey looked at me sympathetically. “I think you should be honest with him.”
I sighed. “I’ll think about it. In the meantime, I still haven’t found something to wear tonight,” I said, trying to change the subject.
Lacey sensed that I wanted to talk about something different. So she rushed to my side and surveyed my wardrobe with a critical eye. “How about you and I hit the mall sometime?”
I raised my eyebrows. “Huh… I suppose we can, actually.”
“Once our salary increments come into effect, we can shop till we drop,” Lacey said, clapping her hands together.
I laughed. “That actually sounds pretty awesome,” I admitted. “But I can’t bust it all on shopping – I have big plans.”
“Plans?” she asked, raising her eyebrows.
“I’m going to enrol in new courses this summer,” I said. “I want a degree. I’ll work in the diner till then, but after I get my degree, I want to do something more with my life.”
Lacey looked at me proudly. “That sounds pretty good.”
“I think so,” I nodded. “It’s time I made something of myself – and I want to start with an education.”
“Who knows? I might decide to enrol with you, too.”
“I’d love the company,” I smiled. “What are you thinking of studying?”
Lacey frowned. “I’ve always liked interior design… Maybe something in that field. What about you?”
“I looked through a few courses and there are so many choices,” I said. “I’m interested in literature, history, and photography. There’s graphic design, too, and-”
“Whoa there,” Lacey interrupted me, holding up her hands. “You can’t do it all.”
I laughed. “I know, but it’s fun to think about. I’ve never had options before.”
“I suppose you can thank Prince Charming for that.”
I smiled, thinking of my Cinderella key chain. “Prince Charming,” I repeated, mostly to myself. “Who would’ve thought?”
“Certainly not me,” Lacey said.
We looked at each other in disbelief for a moment and then I shook my head. “Come on, we’re getting sidetracked here. I need to find something to wear.”
“Right,” Lacey said, rooting around in my closet. “How about this one?”
She pulled out a form fitting nude sweater dress. “This is sexy.”
“Huh… I forgot I owned that dress,” I said.
I stripped down and put on the dress. It fit like a dream, hugging my body in all the right places. It was so tight that it accentuated the flatness of my tummy and the length of my legs.
“Geez, Brit,” Lacey whistled. “You look like a supermodel. How come you’ve never worn this dress before?”
I blushed. “I’ve never really had an occasion worth wearing it to,” I said. “But now I do.”
I brushed my hair out, leaving it in lose waves around my head. Then I applied some mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow, giving my eyes a really smoky look. I kept the rest of my makeup simple, with neutral skin tones and nude lipstick. Adding black heels for contrast, I was ready to go.
“Okay,” Lacey said. “Danny sent me the address. Let’s go.”
The club was lively and vibrant. It had kind of an retro feel to it with disco lights and jukeboxes in the corner.
“There they are,” Lacey said, spotting the guys in one corner at a high table surrounded by bar stools.
“Hi,” Talen said, standing up as I approached. The expression in his eyes was a compliment in its own right as he gazed at me. “Wow…you look amazing. That dress is stunning on you.”
“Thank you,” I said, managing not to blush. “I found it in the back of my closet.”
He bent down and kissed me softly. “Can I get you a drink?” he asked.
“No,” I said. “No need.”
“No need?” Lacey asked, turning to me in shock.
“I don’t think I need a drink tonight, to be honest,” I said.
Danny and Lacey exchanged a glance. “Why?” Lacey demanded.
I shrugged. “It’s not a big deal,” I smiled. “Talen’s not drinking either.”
“That’s because Talen never drinks,” Ryan said, and it sounded like a complaint.
“You don’t have to do that, Brittany,” Talen insisted, placing his hand on the small of my back. “I’m perfectly comfortable being around alcohol. I just don’t feel the need to drink it anymore.”
“Neither do I,” I said. “I wouldn’t mind trying out a nice mocktail, though.”
Lacey looked at me as though I’d just told her I was giving up sex. I laughed, grabbed Talen’s hand, and dragged him over to the bar to get myself that mocktail.
“Drinks are on me today,” I said.
“No-”
“I insist,” I said, cutting him off. “You’re not going to win this one, Talen, so I suggest you drop it.”
He smiled and nodded.
I ordered us a tray of different mocktails so that we could try them all. When we got back to our table, it was to find that Lacey, Ryan and Danny had all moved to the dance floor. We could see them all from the table, dancing chaotically to the music. Lacey and Ryan were grinding against one another and Danny had scored a cute blonde dance partner.
“Looks like we don’t have to share the drinks,” Talen smiled.
“They’ll be so disappointed,” I laughed sarcastically.
A few minutes later, our tray of mocktails arrived. There were seven different drinks there, all of which boasted vibrantly different colors. “Wow, who knew non-alcoholic beverages could be so much fun,” I laughed.
We spent a fun few minutes tasting all the drinks, deciding that the strawberry lime cooler was the winner, with the frozen avocado margarita was a close second.
“So, is this your first niece?” I asked, wanting to know as much about Talen as I could.
“Technically,” he replied. “Sam has a stepdaughter; I suppose she counts as a niece, too.”
“I’d say so,” I nodded. “Your mother must be thrilled.”
“I think she’s been pretty thrilled ever since she’s entered into our lives again,” Talen replied.
“That must have been strange for you?”
“Very,” he nodded. “At first, I didn’t even want to hear her side of the story.”
“How come?”
“Because a part of me wanted to be mad at her forever,” he replied. “I’d been angry for so long, I didn’t know how to stop.”
“Have you stopped?” I asked.
“Yes,” he nodded. “I heard her reasons and understood. It doesn’t change the fact that I grew up without a mother, but at least it helps me understand her a little better.”
I reached out and placed my hand over his. “I know it might not seem this way to you, Talen, but you are lucky. Even without your parents, you had four brothers who had your back. I sometimes wished I had siblings, then I wouldn’t have felt so alone growing up.”
Talen nodded. “Actually, hearing your story is what opened my eyes a little. I realized how much I had in comparison to you. And, I also realized how much I’d taken for granted.”
“Well, now that you realize it, you can change a few things,” I pointed out.
He smiled. “Easier said than done,” he replied. “Especially for a creature as stubborn and proud as I am. But I will certainly try.”
“And, I will help you,” I said, squeezing his hand.
Talen smiled. “I’m counting on that. Which brings me to another favor I need to ask of you.”
I raised my eyebrows. “Of course,” I said readily. “Ask me anything.”
“I have a doctor’s appointment scheduled for Monday morning,” Talen told me. “They want to do another CAT scan to check the swelling in my brain. I was wondering if you could come with me?”
“Of course, I’ll come with you,” I said, without hesitation. “Gladly.”
He smiled. “Thanks.”
I paused for a moment, studying his ridiculously handsome face. I felt a tug at my heart as I realized that if he were cleared to fight on Monday, then he would begin training again soon. I wasn’t sure if my nerves could take that. I knew that every time he took a hit or fell down, I would be fighting panic and worry.
“Are you okay?” Talen asked, noticing the look on my face. “You seem a little…down.”
I smiled quickly. “I’m fine,” I assured him. “I’m just a little nervous about the doctor’s appointment, I suppose.”
Talen leaned in and kissed my forehead. “It’ll be okay, Brittany,” he said, as though he had some inside information that I wasn’t privy to. “Don’t worry.”
I laughed. “Easier said than done.”
“I know,” he nodded, with understanding. “But I promise you, I’ll be careful. I’m a strong fighter. I can handle it.”
My heart beat unevenly at his words. I could see the fever in his eyes, that burning need he had to prove himself further. I could see the ambition there. Talen was still not ready to put the fighting behind him.
If he gave up the MMA, it had to be his choice. I didn’t want him doing anything for my sake alone. So as hard as it was, I bit my lip and held my tongue – even though worry burned a hole in my heart.
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Talen
I dressed quickly, hoping that the scan would reveal that I was fine and the swelling had gone down. If that were the case, then I knew I would be cleared to resume training immediately and part of me longed to start fighting again. My muscles felt sore from disuse and I wanted to feel strong again. It was hard to just sit around and wait to be told that I was going to be okay.
I threw on a white hoodie over my jeans and headed to the fridge. We weren’t going to be stopping anywhere for breakfast, so I grabbed some fruit that I had in the fridge and ate it while standing, contemplating the path my future would take.
It felt a little unfair to me. I had worked so hard to get where I was, and the moment I’d managed to accomplish something, life stepped in and threatened to take it away.
I knew that I had the option of continuing to fight no matter what my CAT scans would reveal, but I was nervous about that decision, too. I didn’t just have myself to consider anymore. There was Brittany, and I didn’t want to involve her in something that could possibly end badly.
I kept thinking of the conversation I’d had with Peter. His advice, as always, was sound, sage, and wise. But as usual, I had a hard time following it. My ambition still sat with me all the time, reminding me that I still had more to prove – to the world and to myself.
I picked up my phone and called Brittany. “Hello?”
“Hi, Talen,” she replied, sounding a little flustered. “Are you on your way?”
“I’m about to leave,” I told her. “You alright?”
“I put my sweater on backwards,” she said. “And, I’ve already lost three of my nails.”
“Biting them again?”
“I can’t seem to shake the habit.”
“Is that my fault?” I asked.
She chuckled lightly. “Maybe.”
“Don’t worry too much,” I told her.
“Easier said than done,” she retorted. “I’ll see you soon.”
I said goodbye and hung up. Then, I finished the apple in my hand and headed to her place to pick her up. I noticed her standing by her window, ready and waiting for me, when I pulled up. I got out of the car and walked around to the passenger side door to hold it open for her as she came down the drive.
Brittany reached out on her tiptoes to give me a kiss hello. I pulled her a little closer, prolonging the kiss until her hands were wrapped around my neck. When I finally let go, she looked a little red faced and breathless.
“You sure know how to wish a girl a good morning,” she smiled.
“One of my specialties,” I replied with a wink as I carefully closed the door on her and walked around to the driver’s seat.
She looked simple and beautiful in her dark jeans and white turtleneck sweater. Her black hair hung loose around her shoulders, a start contrast to the bright white of her top.
“You seem nervous,” I observed, glancing at her.
She smiled. “Aren’t you?”
“What will come will come,” I said, trying to sound confident. “No point is worrying before I have to.”
“I wish I had that kind of attitude,” she sighed. “I keep replaying every possible scenario in my head.”
I didn’t want to ask her what those scenarios involved. I held my tongue and took her hand, squeezing it gently. “Have you decided what you’d like to study?” I asked, trying to distract her.
She gave me a smile. “There are so many choices,” she said. “It’s like being at a buffet and you want to try every single thing there, but you know you can’t.”
“Have you narrowed it down at least?”
“I’m thinking something creative,” Brittany admitted. “Maybe photography or design… I could get into marketing or advertising. But I’m also interested in history.”
“History?”
“But what kind of job would I get with a history degree?”
“A job in a museum maybe?” I suggested.
“Hey, that’s a thought,” she nodded. “I would quite like to work in a museum, actually.”
I smiled at the expression on her face. She really did look like a kid in a candy store. After a moment she turned to me. “Thank you,” she said softly.
“For what?”
“For distracting me,” she replied shrewdly. “You brought me for moral support, but you’re the one doing all the work.”
I smiled. “Just having you near me helps,” I assured her.
We arrived at the hospital, found a parking spot, and headed straight in for my appointment. I was told I needed to do my CAT scans first before seeing the doctor. He would be the one to read the scan and tell me what my situation was.
I could tell Brittany was nervous and ironically, that made me calmer. It was as though she were feeling everything for me so I didn’t need to worry too much.
She gave me a kiss before I headed into the room for my scan. When I emerged, she jumped to her feet and came towards me.
“How was it?” she asked. “Are you okay?”
“It was fine,” I assured her, rubbing her shoulders gently. “Nothing I haven’t seen on television before.”
That got a smile out of her. We were ushered into Doctor Arden’s room and told to wait there till he arrived. Brittany and I walked around, picking up the objects we didn’t recognize, trying to make sense of them.
“Well, medical school is definitely out,” Brittany said. “This all just looks too freaky.”
“I don’t know,” I said. “I think you’d make an amazing doctor.”
“Based on what?”
“Your face,” I smiled. “I’d certainly feel cured if I was sick and you walked in wearing a white coat.”
She laughed and rolled her eyes at me. “Oh sure, doesn’t matter if I kill you as long as I look cute doing it?”
“At least I’ll die happy.”
She shook her head at me and then approached me slowly, with a little glint in her eye. “The doctor’s taking a long time,” she observed suggestively, getting closer and closer to me.
“He is,” I nodded.
“I don’t think it was very wise of him to leave us alone in this room…unsupervised.”
I raised my eyebrows as she pressed herself up against me. I could feel the firmness of her breasts through my hoodie. I had to concentrate very hard not to get all hot and bothered right there in the middle of the doctor’s office. Brittany certainly wasn’t helping matters. She leaned in and kissed my neck sensually as her hand slipped down my pants.
We heard voices just outside the door and Brittany pushed herself away from me just in time. Doctor Arden walked in a moment later. He was a short man with a medium-sized build and a full head of hair. He had the kind of face you trusted, though. I’d only met him once before, but he had managed to win my approval. I didn’t, as a general rule, like doctors very much. He walked up to me and shook my hand.
“How are you, Talen?” he asked.
“Doing okay,” I nodded.
Doctor Arden turned to Brittany and gave her a smile. “You brought your girlfriend?”
“I’m Brittany,” she said, making her own introductions.
“Nice to meet you, Brittany,” Doctor Arden replied. “It’s good that you’re here for support.”
I raised my eyebrows and glanced at Brittany for a moment. Doctor Arden had the results of the CAT scan in his hands and I looked at them suspiciously.
“What did the tests say, doc?” I asked. “Am I good or…not?”
Brittany moved a little closer to me, but her eyes were fixed on the doctor. Doctor Arden shifted uncomfortably on his feet, but he met my eyes.
“I’m afraid it’s not great news, Talen,” he said gently. I felt my stomach plummet. “The swelling hasn’t gone down; it’s being stubbornly persistent.”
“What does that mean for him?” Brittany asked before I could.
“At this stage, the swelling can be managed,” he continued, “with no permanent damage to your personality or behavior. But if you continued to fight, you’re risking serious brain damage.”
I heard Brittany’s intake of breath, but I kept my eyes fixed on Doctor Arden. “It is my medical recommendation that you stop fighting, Talen,” he continued. “You’re young; you have the rest of your life ahead of you. Don’t waste it.”
“Fighting is my life,” I said softly.
Doctor Arden looked at me sympathetically. “I know it can feel that way sometimes. But trust me, at the end of the day, the MMA is your job. And, a job cannot make up a man’s entire life.”
I couldn’t bring myself to look at Brittany, but I could feel her hand on my arm, giving me the support I needed.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t give you better news, Talen,” Doctor Arden sighed.
“Thanks anyway, doc,” I said, shaking hands with him again.
We left his room in silence. When we were back in the car, Brittany turned to me. Her blue eyes looked like they were a little damp, but there were no tears that I could see. I thought she was going to ask me something about the CAT scans, about the appointment, or about the MMA.
But instead, she said, “Let’s go get some ice cream.”
I couldn’t help but smile. “Ice cream sounds…perfect, actually.”
We headed back into town and stopped at an understated little ice cream parlor wedged between a cheese shop and a clothes store. There was no one inside when we walked in except a cheery-faced server behind the counter.
Brittany ordered two scoops of the salted caramel with pecans, and I ordered two scoops of the double chocolate with almonds. Then we sat by the window to enjoy our cones. By unspoken agreement, we didn’t touch on anything serious while we ate our ice cream. We spoke about my brothers and my new niece, we spoke about Brittany’s potential enrolment at one of the local colleges, we spoke about Ryan and Lacey and their somewhat disturbing relationship, but we stayed away from any topic that was too serious.
And then, when our cones were gone, I reached out and took both Brittany’s hands into mine. “What do you think?” I asked, knowing she would understand.
“This is your decision, Talen,” she said. “I can’t make it for you.”
“I don’t want you to,” I told her. “I just… I want your opinion.”
“You really want to continue fighting, don’t you?” she asked with conflicted eyes. “Even after hearing those results?”
“I have a slight invincibility complex,” I admitted, only half joking. “So, yes, I think that maybe I can continue to fight through the swelling and prove the doctors wrong.”
“And, you love it.”
“And, I love it,” I nodded.
Brittany took a deep breath and sighed. “Like I said, it’s your decision. All I can say for myself is that I want you around for as long as humanly possible. But if you love to fight that much, if you still want to fight no matter what…then I will stand by your side and support you, come what may.”
I smiled at her with gratitude. “Come what may,” I repeated softly.
Chapter Thirty-Eight
Brittany
“Man, this place is busting,” I said, joining Lacey behind the breakfast counter. “Why is it so damn crowded all of a sudden?”
“You don’t know?” Lacey asked.
“Umm…should I?”
“It’s because of Talen,” Lacey replied.
“Talen?” I repeated frowning. “What do you mean?”
“Words spread that he’s the new investor at the diner,” Lacey explained. “And since his amazing MMA win, his popularity is through the roof. I think people are coming here partly because they’re hoping to run into him and get a picture and an autograph.”
“Oh,” I said, looking around at the crowded diner. “How did word get out that Talen was the new investor?”
Lacey smirked at me. “How do you think?”
“Danny?”
“Of course,” Lacey nodded. “The boy’s nothing if not smart. He’s been on top of things lately. He’s already hired two new waitresses.”
“When did that happen?” I asked, in amazement.
“Yesterday,” Lacey replied. “You took the day off and while you were off, we interviewed a couple of candidates. There were quite a few.”
“And, he’s already hired two?”
“Emily and April,” Lacey replied. “April’s shift should start in half an hour. She should be on her way right now.”
“Wow, how did I miss so much?” I asked.
“Well, in your defence, everything happened pretty fast,” she said. “And, Danny was adamant about hiring people as soon as possible. Which I’ll admit is necessary, considering the number of people we have in here now.”
“How are the newbies?” I asked.
Lacey raised an eyebrow. “How do you think?” she said. “They’re young, hot, and perky. Not as hot as either one of us, obviously…”
“Obviously,” I laughed.
“But they’ll attract attention, that’s for sure.”
“You’re not feeling threatened are you?” I asked innocently.
“Me?” she asked defensively. “Bite your tongue.”
I held up my hands. “Sorry, I was just asking.”
At that moment the door opened and a young blonde walked in. She was wearing a pair of low-rise jeans that showed off her midriff and a sexy top showing plenty of skin. She removed her jacket and gave Lacey a smile.
“Hi,” she greeted. “I thought I’d get here a little early since it’s my first day.”
“You must be April,” I said, stretching out my hand to her.
“I am,” she nodded. “And, you must be Brittany.”
“That’s right,” I nodded.
Lacey grabbed a thin white apron and threw it to April. “We’re a little busy at the moment, so let’s exchange pleasantries later, shall we? Can you start with those three tables by the window, April?”
“Sure thing,” she nodded as she put the apron on and headed down the diner.
“Three tables?” I said. “Surely you and I can pitch in.”
“She has to learn,” Lacey said uncaringly. “Besides, you and I are talking.”
I shook my head at her. “Cold.”
“It’s time to sink or swim,” she smiled. “You and I have paid our dues – it’s time to make other people work. Now, tell me about the doctor’s appointment.”
I sighed. “I’d rather not.”
“That bad, huh?”
“Basically, the swelling in Talen’s brain hasn’t gone down,” I explained. “Which means if he continues to fight, he’s risking permanent brain damage.”
“Damn,” she said, her tone turning somber. “That’s serious.”
“Very serious,” I nodded.
“And?” she asked. “What has he decided?”
“He hasn’t really said yet,” I admitted. “I didn’t want to push him. I think he’s leaning towards continuing to fight, though.”
“Seriously?”
“You know the kind of guy Talen is,” I sighed. “He’s determined, ambitious, and stubborn. I think he feels like he can continue to fight without anything major happening to him.”
“Isn’t that a little naïve?”
“Of course, it is,” I said, throwing my hands up in frustration. “But I can’t get involved.”
“Can’t?” Lacey asked pointedly. “Or won’t?”
“I… Both,” I said hesitantly. “I can’t tell him what to do, Lace. Nor can I decide what’s best for him. If he gives this up just for me, he could end up resenting me in the future, and I don’t want that to happen. He has to make this decision on his own.”
“You still owe him the truth,” Lacey pointed out. “Did he ask you what you thought?”
“He has,” I nodded. “And, I told him the same thing I just told you. It’s his decision and I would support him no matter what he chooses. Which is true. I will support him no matter what.”
Lacey pursed up her lips. “You’re scared he’ll blame you later, aren’t you?” she asked. “That is if you ask him to give up fighting.”
“Of course, I’m scared of that,” I admitted. “My father resented me for being born, Lace. Why wouldn’t Talen resent me for this?”
“Because Talen is not your father,” she told me gently. “He’s a better man than your father will ever be – and you know that.”
“I do know that,” I said.
“So don’t judge him by your father’s standards,” she advised. “And, don’t be scared to be honest with Talen. If you want a future with him, then honesty is the only way forward.”
“It sounds simple when you say it like that.”
Lacey smiled. “I know it’s never that simple,” she said. “But I don’t think that Talen’s the kind of guy who’s going to hold this against you. Think of everything he’s done so far. He’s bought you a car, redecorated your apartment, and even bought you shares in this diner… He’s serious about you Lacey.”
“I know that.”
“Then, don’t you think you owe him your honest opinion?”
“He’s done everything to put me first,” I said, trying to explain how I felt about everything. “He’s done everything to make sure my future is secure. He’s tried to give me the freedom he always wanted.
“The least I can do is be there to support him in whatever decision he makes. That’s why I’m not going to influence his choice, Lace, because now I need to return the favor and put him first.”
“Even if it means spending the rest of your life fearing that you’re going to lose him?”
“Yes,” I said, through gritted teeth. “Even then.”
Lacey nodded. “Okay then,” she said.
We got on with the rest of our day and it was one of the busiest days the diner had ever had. Alice happened to be a cheerful and efficient waitress, and by the end of the day, we had got a steady rhythm going between the three of us. Danny had decided not to introduce dinner to the diner until after the renovations, so we still closed at the usual time. But unlike previous days, we had people sitting at their booths until the very last second.
It was almost five when I saw Talen’s car pull up outside. A few people’s heads swivelled in his direction the moment he stepped foot into the diner. I was about to approach him when a young woman beat me to the punch.
“Can I have your autograph?” she asked breathlessly. She had already had a pen and a piece of paper in hand.
Talen looked a little taken back, but he nodded and gave her a small smile. He signed the paper for her and then suffered through a picture before she hurried back to her booth with the biggest smile on her face.
She wasn’t the only fan Talen had, however. She just opened the floodgates. Before I knew it, there was a long line of people waiting to shake hands with Talen, take his picture, and ask for his autograph. His eyes met mine over the line of people, and all I could do was smile and wink at him.
“Look at your man,” Lacey whispered to me. “You should be proud.”
“Oh, I am,” I assured her. “More than you know.”
“Wait, is that your boyfriend?” April asked in amazement.
I looked at her dumbfounded face and felt a little thrill of satisfaction. I had never had anything in my life that other people liked or wanted. It was a completely new experience – and I had to admit, I was enjoying it.
“Yup,” I smiled.
“Talen Burbank is your boyfriend?” April asked, as though she couldn’t quite believe her ears.
“He is.”
She stared at me for a second. “You are so fucking lucky. He’s so freaking hot.”
I laughed. “He is, isn’t he?” I agreed wholeheartedly.
Once the crowd cleared and the diner had been closed up for the day, Talen came to sit in front of me at the breakfast counter. He was about to say something when April cut in.
“Hi,” she said, flicking her hair out a little. “I’m April, the new waitress Danny hired.”
“Nice to meet you, April,” Talen replied politely.
“I’m a huge fan,” she said. “Part of the reason I wanted this job was because I heard you were part owner.”
“You don’t say?” Talen looked amused. “Well, welcome on board then.”
April smiled. “Could I have an autograph, please?”
“Of course,” he said graciously.
After April had her autograph, she waved goodbye to everyone and left for the day. Taking advantage of the quiet that had descended over the diner, I walked around the counter straight into Talen’s arms and kissed him passionately on the lips.
“Urgh,” Lacey complained, coming in from the kitchen. “That is not sanitary for a diner.”
Laughing, I grabbed Talen’s butt for Lacey’s benefit. “Eww,” she complained, as she turned her face away.
“Oh, come on,” I said, calling her out. “You’ve done far worse.”
“Somehow it’s different when I do it.”
“Double standards,” I said, wagging my finger in her face.
She ignored me and turned to Talen. “Well, well,” she said. “If it isn’t our very own celebrity.”
Talen looked a little embarrassed. “I didn’t really expect that today.”
“You can thank Danny,” she said. “He put the word out that you were the diner’s new investor.”
“He sent me a text asking if it was okay,” Talen admitted. “I didn’t think it would do shit, so I told him to go ahead.”
“I think you underestimated your own popularity,” I pointed out.
“Apparently,” he nodded, as though he were amazed by that fact.
“So?” I asked, snuggling in between his legs and throwing my arms around his neck. “How does it feel?”
“How does what feel?”
“All this,” I said. “The fame, the attention, and all that obvious adoration?”
“Oh…that.”
“Yes,” I said amused. “That.”
He gave me a small smile. “You know, I never really cared about any of that. The reason I started fighting in the first place was because it gave me an outlet for my anger and frustration. As it turned out, I actually enjoyed it and had the talent for it. So it became my career. But right throughout, I was only ever interested in being the best fighter I could be. The fame is just white noise to me. It doesn’t mean a thing.”
I smiled. “I believe that.”
“In other news… I have a meeting with my promoter and my coach in the morning,” he informed me. “So, I’m not sure if I’ll come in for breakfast tomorrow.”
“Ah,” I said, feeling my nerves increase instantly. “Does that mean you’ve made a decision?”
“I think so,” he said.
“You think so?” I repeated. “Are you not sure?”
“It’s a big decision,” he said, a little uncertainly. “Either way, it’s a big decision.”
“I know,” I nodded sympathetically, trying to read his face for clues.
“But you’ll support me no matter what, right?” he asked, gazing into my eyes.
I did my best to wipe the worry from my expression. “Of course,” I said confidently. “I promised I would and I always keep my promises.”
He leaned in and kissed me hard on the lips. “Thank you, Brittany,” he whispered into my ear.
I hugged him tight and nodded. “Good luck tomorrow, Talen,” was all I could say.