Claim (Fury Brothers #5)

But right now, she was afraid of something, or someone, and I wanted to help her.

If she was in danger…

That was one thing I wouldn’t stand for. And it was one thing I could help her with.

“Why do you want to learn to fight?”

“For protection. I’m a woman who’s on my own. I need some skills.”

There was more to it, although I doubted she’d share. She reminded me of a prickly little porcupine.

As I watched her, she glanced away. Her gaze traced over the tattoos on my arm.

I couldn’t have her here. I shouldn’t have touched someone so young and fresh in the first place.

She wasn’t for me.

I was a rough foster kid-turned-merc-turned boxer. I was rough, tough, and tattooed. That creamy skin of hers had never been touched by ink. I knew, because I’d checked every inch of it.

The reality was, we had chemistry. That one night together had proven that. I’d never come quicker, harder, or so often.

If she was here, in my orbit, in my space, I’d take her again. I wouldn’t be able to help myself.

I cleared my throat. “We have a good self-defense class for women.”

I saw Bell stiffen.

“Shay, the instructor, is really good. She has lots of experience.”

Bell shook her head. “No. I wantyouto teach me to fight.”

“That’s not a good idea.”

7

BELL

Istill couldn’t believe it.

Beau,myBeau, was Beauden Fury.

The Fury brothers had fought their way from a life as foster kids, to successful businessmen. They were all rich, owned countless properties and businesses, attended the best parties in New Orleans, women wanted them.

Beau was right there. I could reach out and touch him.

His hard muscles were covered by soft cotton now, and his shirt had the Hard Burn logo on it—a boxing glove covered in flames. I looked up at his black beard and gray eyes, then my gaze fell to his hands. I remembered how it felt to have those hands on me.

“Shay’s a really good trainer,” Beau said. “All the women who attend love her classes—”

I clicked into his words. My mouth flattened. He didn’t want to train me. He probably didn’t want me anywhere near him.

I was just his accidental one-night stand.

“I don’t want some beginner class. I need the best.”

“Bell…” There was resignation in his voice.

I stepped back. “I shouldn’t have come.” I let out a harsh laugh. “Of course you wouldn’t want to teach me.”