The night after the fight had been long and tiresome, Drew refusing to even talk about it with me. I figured she was upset, and although I was dying for answers I wasn't going to press her, at least not tonight. I was advised by the medic to keep an eye on her for slurred speech and nausea but Drew was fine. I didn't believe she had a serious concussion, if she even had one at all, but it was better safe than sorry.

I had lied awake with her for hours, her just listening to soft music while my mind went crazy. She was hurt, and I had no idea why. I didn't understand what was going on with her, but I hoped she would sleep it off and reveal the truth to me tomorrow.

In all actuality I was terrified that I had done something wrong, or said something she didn't like. What if Drew didn't want to be with me because of Jada? What if she was mad over this? That couldn't be true; she knew what she was getting herself into. I just didn't understand, but talking to her about it wasn't happening right away.

I was going crazy in my own head but I knew she was too, so I would give her time.

She had fallen asleep around one in the morning, me finally joining her because it finally had felt safe. I hated how on edge everything had become but maybe it was just what the situation had called for. I didn't want to think things were turning south, but waking up the next morning couldn't come fast enough.

When she was stirring in my arms I awaited her eyes to fall upon me patiently, and when they did I whispered, "How are you feeling?"

She shrugged, "Fine, my shoulders killing me."

I watched her sit up immediately, and although her head seemed to be fine I could tell she was still in pain. It was more physical than mental now, and I was glad she was talking to me, but I was curious as to when she would decide to explain herself.

I questioned, "Want me to go downstairs and make coffee?"

She nodded, "Yea, but first help me put on my sling."

I did as she asked; helping her with her arm knowing it was painful for her to move her shoulder from last night. I hated seeing her in pain like this but all I could do was help her. Luckily she hadn't torn any ligaments or anything fatal last night, but the sling would ease some of the tension.

After that I helped her make coffee.

She was silent for a little while, as if she was searching for a way to explain last night. I didn't expect her to all of a sudden know what to say, and maybe she was still confused as to why she had blown it. I didn't know, but I would let her sort it out even though I was going crazy while waiting.

"I'm sorry about what you saw last night," she began.

I answered softly, "Drew... I just don't understand..."

She palmed her coffee mug, a look of sadness laced in her features. Shrugging she continued, "You and I both know if I would've won Jada would've hated me. If she lost to me a second time there was no way she would get into the UFC. I had to lose."

I felt my head shaking, "So you lost on purpose... because of my sister?"

"I lost on purpose because I want to be with you, and I can't be with you if your sister resents me."

Her voice made me quiver but I understood, even though it felt wrong to have practically given Jada the title. Drew wanted everything to be okay between her and Jada, and suddenly her motives behind last night's loss made sense.

I moved my chair closer to hers, "So what now?"

"I'd leave if I could but... you know I can't."

"How many fights...?"

"Three. The usual," she looked down, allowing me to study the stitches on her brow. I was glad the gym was closed today and tomorrow for New Year's holiday, that way she wouldn't have to do anything but heal. She was bruised badly, but I had to remember it probably looked worse than it was.

Three more fights, after everything she had gone through they were still giving her three. Was it because they knew she had blown it last night? I just didn't see the fairness in it all.

I decided against talking about it anymore, pitching the idea for tonight I had gotten from Maria, "If you want, Maria's family is closing out their restaurant and having this big family party there. It's not far from Times Square... She invited us."

If Drew was still hurting I didn't want to push her to leave the house today, but luckily she seemed fine with it.

"Yea, that sounds great," she smirked, "A fiesta."

The fact that Drew had blown her last fight for Jada had shocked me, but when I analyzed the situation I realized it had been a good call on her part. Not that I had agreed with how she had done it, but I knew she was right. If Jada would've lost she wouldn't have ever forgiven Drew, and we both knew that. I had just been so blinded by my fear from last night that I couldn't recognize it.

Drew wanted to be with me, she had said that, and now that Jada and Ashley were out the way maybe we could finally take it further.

~ ~ ~ ~

Showing up to the party had surprised Demarcus, who had his arm casually draped over Maria in a corner booth within the restaurant. I was happy to see both of them, more Maria considering we hadn't seen each other much since the holidays began. I walked up to them with Drew's free arm snaked around my waist.

Maria gasped as she caught sight of Drew's face, "Oh my God... Demarcus said it was bad but I wasn't expecting this..."

Drew just laughed it off, "It looks worse than it actually is."

Maria took both of our hands then, "Do you two want a drink? Mi tía makes the best margaritas."

I smiled at Maria's peeking accent, wishing I could hear it more because it sounded so amazing. I looked at Drew, "She really does make the best margaritas."

Drew complied, "Fine, I'll try one."

Maria clapped excitedly and pulled me away from Drew, shuffling towards the bar. I knew she wanted to talk to me alone, most likely about last night, but I honestly just wanted to have fun. Except I knew denying Maria's wish would be impossible.

She confessed, "Drew looks... rough."

I nodded, "Yea I know."

"What the hell happened? Dee told me she blew her last fight?"

I leaned against the bar and glanced over at Demarcus and Drew who were both talking animatedly. I shook my head, wishing the circumstances could've been different but they weren't.

"She blew it so Jada could get the hell out of that league."

Maria shook her head, "So that she would have to stay in? She really did that for you Bree, she lost for you."

I nodded, "I know."

"It's sweet but tragic really," she countered, beginning to pour the margarita mix her aunt had most likely made earlier. She was right, it was sweet and tragic, almost saddening that it had come to that, but it was over, at least between her and my sister.

And I couldn't be more relieved that it was.

When she finished pouring she turned to me, "Sofia's here, by the way."

With that mentioning I felt my pulse quicken, wondering if she would be here with her new boyfriend as well. Ever since learning about her past I felt closer with her, mostly because I better understood her situation. I of course wouldn't be able to ever relate, but with Drew stepping into my life we had a little more in common. Maybe I could introduce them.

I took my drink and walked with her back over to Drew and Dee, "I should go and tell her hi."

"She asked me if you were coming," she confessed, almost as if she had brought me up to her cousin on purpose. "But, if you do I think she's outside."

We rejoined the other two and got to catching up, Maria and I talking about our upcoming internship at the dance studio next week. We would be instructing children, up and coming dancers that could possibly grow into huge stars or people like Maria and I. We would be responsible for teaching them the most important things in dancing and ballet, and I was overly excited for it.

I found the night passing away fairly quick, so when Dee and Drew had their own conversation going while Maria was talking with her mom I excused myself. I wanted to find Sofia and tell her hi considering it had been a long time since I had last seen her.

I walked around the restaurant, realizing she wasn't inside I headed outside, seeing a group of Maria's extended family. I spotted her standing next to a tall boy whom had his arm wrapped around her waist. She was older, her hair long and wavy. I couldn't help but think she resembled Maria, but younger of course. I smiled as her warm brown eyes took me in.

"Bree?!" She exclaimed, running over to me and hugging me tight.

I smiled, "Oh my God, Sofia you look great."

She stepped back and took me in, "Me? Look at you! Dancing at NYU did you good."

I blushed, and then the guy she had previously been with walked up, his light green eyes complementing his gorgeous light brown complexion. I swear they both had stepped out of a fashion magazine but that was beside the point. He extended his arm willingly, "Luis, I'm Sofia's boyfriend."

I shook his hand, "Breanna, call me Bree... I'm friends with Maria."

It was amazing to watch him interact with Sofia, how his hands were gentle and patient. He wrapped an arm around Sofia's waist, allowing me to see her tense but relax as soon as she pushed past what could be nasty thoughts. I pretended not to see.

"So, how's high school?"

She and Luis groaned at the same time, causing me to laugh. Apparently their senior year was dragging.

Sofia chimed, "It's great and all but let's face it... The end can't come fast enough."

Luis nodded, "Agreed."

Sofia questioned, "But high school's boring, what about you? I heard you and Maria are starting an internship together?"

I nodded, "It's a studio for young kids, and we're both excited. After this I'll finally get my diploma and move back to Philadelphia."

"Sick of the city?"

I nodded, "Four years has been enough."

Sofia gave me a dazzling smile and when Luis was called over to the group of guys he dismissed himself. I took this as an opportunity to press the matter further, "He's gorgeous."

Sofia inhaled heavily, a look of admiration in her eyes, "I know... God I really don't know how I got so lucky."

I rubbed her shoulder, understanding what she meant. Although I couldn't reveal that because she didn't know I knew about her past. Maria had told me that in confidence, so keeping it to myself was necessary.

I shook my head, "You're amazing Sofia, you know that."

She seemed to take off to another planet then, her eyes looking away. She shrugged, "Yea, it's just... I was lucky to find someone like him. He understands me better than most, you know?"

I gave her an encouraging smile, "I know, and you should hold onto him."

She blushed then, and suddenly I felt an arm wrap around my waist. The accustomed smell of fruity shampoo filled my senses as my body tingled. I already knew who it was, and I was glad she had found me at this time.

I didn't give her time to think before I introduced, "Sofia, this is Drew..."

Sofia's eyes took in Drew's arm and then most likely her face, which wasn't too appealing at the moment considering the bruising and the stitches. Drew seemed at ease with the younger brunette, reaching out her hand and claiming Sofia's.

"Nice to meet you," Sofia spoke, and then looking at me and giving me a look of approval.

Drew asked, "Did I interrupt something...?"

Sofia blushed, "No, we weren't talking about anything particular... but I'll leave you two too it. Find me before you leave tonight." She flashed me a wink and then headed off to meet Luis again.

I turned to Drew then, leaning into her as I smirked, "Are you having a good time?"

"I am," she confessed, smiling, "It's relaxing and that margarita was really good. I'm debating on another one."

I smiled, "Well, you're not driving so... I don't see why not."

"Because, I would like to remember tonight tomorrow morning."

I rolled my eyes playfully, "You're no fun."

She leaned in and kissed me, our lips lingering closer after we pulled away. She whispered, "I think I'm a lot of fun, actually."

My body tingled at the sound of her voice, wishing we weren't in public all of a sudden. I didn't want to get carried away, or embarrass myself by saying something out of line, so I just kissed her again. Last time we did this in public Maria had heard us.

I leaned back, fixing her beanie on her head and moving the hair out of her face since she was partially crippled. I don't know what it was about this moment, but it was special. Maybe it was the energy from the outside crowd awaiting the countdown till the New Year, but the happiness was contagious. I would be starting a new year with Drew, a new job, and possibly a new journey. I was excited, and thinking about it made a warmth spread all throughout my body.

"What are you thinking about?" She asked.

I shook my head, smiling, "Just how grateful I am to be experiencing this with you."

I watched those magnificent eyes take me in; ignoring the damn stitches that temporarily flawed her perfect face. She was still gorgeous, and ever since that talk with my ex I had felt so much closer to Drew. I couldn't explain it, but I finally felt like I was ready to give all of my heart to her. I knew Ashley had been preventing me from that, but the talk had done me good, and now that I was slowly repairing I was ready to take it further with the girl in front of me.

I started, "So I've been thinking..."

"Uh oh," she teased, and then I gave her a fake frown.

"Don't uh oh me," I demanded, "It's a good thought. I hope."

She waited with a smirk on her face.

I took a deep breath, "I think... maybe since everything bad is finally out of the way... we could you know... define our relationship?"

I was relieved to see that she wasn't freaked out over this, but rather looked like she had expected it. It made me even more comfortable bringing it to light, but I let her give me her thoughts.

She nodded, "I like that idea, actually."

"So, what do you say? Can I start calling you my girlfriend rather than a good friend?"

"Is that your way of asking?" she teased once again.

I rolled my eyes, taking her face in my hands, "Drew..." I paused for effect, "When I met you I hated you."

She laughed slightly, "Thanks."

"But that's because you beat the shit out of my sister," I joked, lightening to the mood. I watched something in her expression soften, as if I was hitting a sensitive spot. I continued, "I know it's not gonna be easy, but I want to be able to be there for you whenever you need. I like you, a lot, and I want to be able to show you, as your girlfriend. So what do you say?"

I watched her guard fall as she nodded, leaning in and kissing me softly. I let the warmth overtake my body, the electric currents running all through my body. This was the best yes I had ever received, and I was so glad I could finally call her mine.

She pulled away and whispered, "I don't think I could've ended this year any better."

I blushed then, "I'm so glad I met you."

The look on Drew's face was priceless, the way she lit up hearing that come out of my mouth. I couldn't be happier, but I knew we had a lot of great things to experience together. I was ready, I was prepared to face whatever the world threw at us, and I wanted to experience it with Drew. There was something about her that just made me feel like we were meant to meet, and keeping her close was my number one intention.

She meant a lot to me, and I had nothing but time to show her that.

~ ~ ~ ~

New Years passed with ease, and going back home to face Jada had been easier than I had expected. Drew's recovery was going well but she wouldn't be fighting anytime soon, I figured because she wanted to just take a break before hopefully finishing. My internship had started as well, not with what I had expected but I knew after the grunt work I would finally get to step in with the kids. Maria working with me made it easier, but I knew it wouldn't be long till we would be expected to finally get to the real stuff.

We were more than excited.

But currently Drew and I were shopping for tonight since we wanted to cook, and after checking out we took a cab home. January weather was harsh but knowing I wouldn't have to spend another winter alone made it okay. I loved sleeping next to Drew through cold nights, and it gave us perfect excuses to stay in and watch movies all day.

We made it to her place, unloaded our groceries, and started prepping before the sun finally went down.

Drew started turning on her stove as I pulled everything out, asking, "Okay, so do you want to cut the veggies or the chicken?"

She shrugged, "Whatever you prefer not to do."

I rolled my eyes, "You suck at making decisions."

Laughing she kissed the side of my head, "But you love me anyway."

The word leaving her mouth reminded me of how she had let it slip a few nights ago, and how I had been feeling the intensity between us heighten. The more time I spent with Drew the better it got, and the goodness we were experiencing only scared me. Every time good things continuously happened I knew it was a matter of time before something bad came to ruin it.

She began cutting the chicken while I diced the bell peppers, realizing that I had been longing for this type of relationship for a long time. The comfortableness I felt with her was like no other, and I felt like I had done this a million times with her. I felt like this would never get old, and I could only hope she never got sick of me.

I didn't think I would ever get tired of her.

Then suddenly Drew's phone was ringing on the other side of the counter with a number she obviously didn't recognize flashing on the screen.

She walked away from me after wiping her hands, picking it up and answering, "Hello?"

She was silent, the person on the other line sounding like a man. His voice was barely audible but when Drew exhaled heavily and grabbed the edge of the counter I knew something was wrong. Oh God, it was her dad... was all I could think.I could be wrong, but her knuckles turned white, letting me know she was either really angry or really hurt.

She spoke forcefully, "Yea, I'm sorry... I'll... I'll try to be there."

The look on her face worried me, and when she hung up and took a seat I walked over to her quickly. I pressed, "Are you okay? Who was that?"

She exhaled again, this time I could tell she was extremely shaken, but I tried not to freak out further. She shook her head, rubbing her temples as she rested her head in her hands.

"It was Evan. His dad... Ronnie... he passed away."

**A/N**

Well, here's an update for you guys even when I'm on vacay! Leave me nice comments to read while I'm on the beach! Happy Reading!

-Lauryn B.