“I’d put you on your ass quick enough,” Max shot back, and Bryson let out a low whistle.
“You’ve got balls, kid. Can’t deny that. But Zane is right. You’re younger than—”
“Just give me a shot. I’ll fight anyone here you want.”
“Easy now, don’t be making promises you can’t keep.”
“I swear on my life, you let me get in the ring, and I’ll step up to any opponent.”
“Famous last words,” Bryson murmured
“What’s wrong with you?” I spat. “Do you really think you can take on Zane? Me?”
I’d fucking annihilate the cocky little shit.
“I think I could try.” He puffed out his chest and I couldn’t figure out if he was plain stupid or believed his own bullshit. But if he was adamant about getting in the ring, I couldn’t let him spar with anyone. Harleigh would never forgive me, even if he deserved a beating.
“I’ll do it,” I said much to Zane and Kye’s grumbles of disapproval.
“This is a bad idea,” Zane said. “A really fucking bad idea.”
“Something tells me he’s not going to quit until Bryson gives him a shot. You really want to do this?” I asked him, flicking my hard gaze to Bryson. He smirked back as if I’d played right into his hands.
Whatever.
I wasn’t doing this for him or even Max. I was doing it for Harleigh.
“One hundred percent” he said, jabbing the air, relief flitting across his expression.
“Okay, then let’s do it.” I looked at Bryson for permission and he nodded.
“Have at it. You can consider this your audition, kid. Now get out of here and get ready.”
“Yes, thank fuck.” He punched the air. “I mean yes, thanks.”
“You need to find some gloves from the bin and a helmet.”
“What? I thought you sparred without all that?”
“We do, but we know what we’re doing.” I smirked.
“If you’re not wearing it, I’m not wearing it.”
“You don’t get to make the rules, kid. Harleigh will—”
“I didn’t realize you were pussy-whipped. You know, I’ve heard the stories about you.”
“This isn’t some weird fan worship, is it?” I frowned. “Because you’re going to be sorely disappointed.” His eyes narrowed, nostrils flaring with anger. “How badly do you want to hit me right now?”
His fists clenched by his sides. I knew that look. The look of someone trying to fight their inner monster.
What the fuck had happened to this kid to make him so angry?
Max stalked off into the gym, making a beeline for the equipment bins. I went to follow, but Zane grabbed my arm. “What the fuck are you doing?”
“Better it’s me in the ring with him than any of these guys.” I flicked my head to the group of guys over by the punch bags.
“She’ll kill you if you hurt him.”