Hooked (TKO 2)

I should have talked to Howard about this before now. “You don’t have to worry about him, Howard. I need to tell you something and I need it to stay between us.”

“Is everything okay?” Howard’s voice is full of concern. He reaches up to wipe a few beads of sweat from his brow.

“It’s going to be. She just left him yesterday. But…she’s pregnant and he doesn’t know it. I told her I’d take responsibility for her baby.”

His eyes widen. The minute his ears turn red, I know he’s getting ready to let me have it. “Have you seriously thought this through, Lance? It’s noble, but I know you, and I worry you may not be ready for this type of responsibility. I’m a father, and it’s hard. I love that little girl, and Whitney. Would you do that for her and a baby that isn’t yours?”

Without even thinking, I blurt out my answer. “I would in a heartbeat. I don’t know what love is. Hell, I’ve never even been close enough to understand it, but I’m sure I love her. It’s time for me to grow up, and maybe this is what I finally needed in my life to make me see that. So, yes, I would lay my life on the line for them.”

Howard’s eyes turn misty as he claps his hand on my shoulder. “Your mother would be so damn proud of you right now. I know I am.”

“Shit, man, don’t make me cry.”

“I’m not trying to. I’m just being honest with you. I knew you had it in you to be a good guy, and that girl and her baby are lucky to have you. You’re doing the right thing.”

My heart swells hearing his words, and I know that he’s right. My mom would be proud of me. “Thanks. Now let’s get to work.”

He chuckles and moves out of the way to let me set my weights just how I like them. I grab my gloves and place them on my hands as I get ready.

I didn’t realize how much tension I had built up until I begin lifting weights and it felt like every single issue going on in my life was lifted away. All I can think about was what Hilary and Whitney were talking about, but knowing Hilary is safe is all I need to know.

Several reps later, Howard helps me set the bar back on the bench and I sit up. I wipe the sweat from my face and notice Garrett walking over to me. I glance at Howard, and hope he doesn’t say anything. I’ll have this talk with Garrett later, most likely when we’re alone. I don’t need him making a scene in front of Hilary.

“Hey, man, what’s going on?” He smirks. Chances are he’s already seen Hilary and he’s beating around the bush, waiting for me to crack.

“Just practicing. Feel like sparring?”

He raises his eyebrow and nods toward the mats on the floor. His gaze roams into the office as we pass and he turns to face me. “You brought her with you? I’m taking it things are good?”

“Yeah, man, they’re good. She wanted to come hang out, and Whitney is here, so I figured why not.”

“That’s cool. I’m glad.”

“Me too. How’s Raegan doing? Is she here?” That could kill my plan.

“No, she’s spending some time with her dad. I’m cutting out early today. She has a doctor’s appointment for the baby.”

Baby. I never imagined hearing that word would affect me the way it does. I never expected it to cause my heart to pitter-patter in my chest, especially for a baby that isn’t even mine. It’s a baby I will love though as if it were my own. I must be out of reality right now, because I glance over at Garrett to find him standing with his arms crossed over his chest, tapping his foot on the soft, cushioned mat.

“Okay, you’re hiding something.” He’s trying to intimidate me, but I won’t let him win.

“What are you talking about? I’m not hiding shit.”

“Spill it, Lance. You don’t keep anything from me and you’re a terrible liar.”

“Look, it’s serious shit and I would tell you but it involves Hilary. She’s in the office with your sister, and you’re going to go ape shit on me. Now is not the time.”

His eyes soften as he whispers, “What is it, man? Are you in trouble? Is she in trouble?”

I didn’t want to have this conversation here, but it looks like I have no choice. I can’t bullshit my way out of this one no matter how hard I try. “Look, Garrett, a lot of shit is going on right now and I really need my best friend. If you’re going to be an asshole, I’m not going to tell you.”

He sighs and brings his hands to his face. “I won’t be an asshole, I swear.”

“Hilary is pregnant.” The horrific look on his face makes it clear I need to explain. “Let me finish. It’s not mine. I have never touched her like that. It’s his. She’s left him and I’m helping her out.”

“But it’s not your baby.” He keeps his voice low, glancing around to ensure we’re not overheard. “Are you sure you want to get tangled up in this? Does he know about the baby?”

“No, he doesn’t, and it’s going to stay that way.” I’ll walk through Hell itself to make sure Travis never finds out.