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Theyon hi across the mat as they circled each other One hand knocked away a fist before the other came in and pushed away another

I couldn’t follohat each of the so fast Arh the air only to be defended

It was like a dance

My heart pounded as I watched a s for a moment, and then…

He stumbled back a couple of steps, she caht her wrists just in ti her

He smiled, Banks frozen, as hard breaths filled the room and she stared at my dad

Jesus He’d stopped first She’d worn him out

I coveredmy heart Soon, Mads and Jett would be just like that, and while I’d never anticipated danger in our future, I kneas possible I breathed easier, knowing ht come

But not tonight Tonight was for partying

Releasing her, he straightened and walked up to her, taking her shoulders They hadn’t acknowledged my presence, but my father probably kneas here

Her body moved up and down as she tried to catch her breath

He gazed down “Good,” he said in a gentle voice

She stared up at him, but then I saw her head drop and her jaw flex

“Now go have fun tonight,” he told her

I pushed myself off the wall and walked over to Banks as she turned andin hers, and she quickly looked away asas he passed me

Tipping her chin up, I looked down at her beautiful face, gloith a light layer of sweat and her green eyes glistening

She glanced afterher grandfather a salute as he passed He returned the gesture

“You’re very lucky, you know?” Banks said, her voice shaking “He’s proud of you”

I touched her face

“You’re so lucky,” she said again, and I could hear the crack in her voice

Bringing her in, I kissed her forehead as she shook with more tears