Chapter Thirty-One: Space Between

"Mamma mia, here I go again. My my, how can I resist you? Mamma mia, does it show again? My my, just how much I've missed you?"

~Mamma Mia by ABBA~

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Revised: July 16, 2022

Warnings: abuse, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, language, panic attacks, sexual harassment/assault, violence, and other mature themes

A/N: Get ready for a 10,000 word rollercoaster.

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Zion's POV

"Keep the ice on it for fifteen minutes at a time and make sure to elevate," Carmen reminds me. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah, I'm good," I assure her, even though my ankle is swollen and bruised and I'm pretty messed up after last night.

I don't know if I'll ever emotionally recover from the fear I felt in that alleyway. I'm a fast physical healer, which is good, but mentally I'm ready to collapse. I didn't sleep last night. Not for more than five minutes at a time, at least. I'd end up getting a nightmare about those guys, wake up, and be scared to fall back asleep.

"Okay. You have my number if you need anything. I have to get to work, but Miguel is looking for the brace and crutches in the back storage closet and said he'll be here to help you. My mother is also around if you need. Have a good day," she smiles warmly.

"Thanks," I say as she grabs her things and walks to work.

Thankfully, she's an x-ray technician and knows how to handle stuff like this; she thinks it's only a mild sprain - which is good - but it also means no karate and I can't walk on it for roughly two weeks. This sucks.

"Here they are," I look over to see Miguel hop in on the crutches. "We can adjust them for your height. I also found the brace from when I tripped and fell at the park a few years back. I used to be really clumsy."

He smiles warmly and hands me the black brace. I honestly don't know how it will go around my tennis ball sized ankle.

"Speaking of, why didn't you tell my mom the truth?"

"W-What do you mean?" I ask and he sits beside me on the couch, careful not to disturb the pillow with my foot on it.

"Oh, come on. I know you didn't fall on your skates like you told her. I saw you leave your skates. And I know you, Z. Something else is bothering you," Miguel says in concern.

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Okay, don't tell me if you don't want to," he says and I look at him. "But, I am your best friend and you can tell me anything."

"I know... I..." I don't even know how to explain it. I try to think of a way to say it, but all I can think of is their hands on me and the nasty words they said, the way I was vulnerable and stupid.

"You don't have to. But I'm here if you need to talk," Miguel stands up. 

"Miguel?" I ask.

He turns to me, a serious look on his face. "What's wrong?" 

I sigh, trying to get control of myself to say it once. Just once. "I want to tell you, but please promise you won't tell anybody," I say after a moment, deciding the truth is the best option; I trust him, after all.

"Promise," he sits down and immediately I regret my decision and am uncomfortable. I look down, playing with my snake ring as I briefly recap what happened.

"As I was leaving last night... I-I got into a fight with three guys who were harassing me. I won, but they got away and left me with a hurt ankle," I say slowly and realize how good it felt to let that out.

But then I see Miguel's expression is now a mix of worry and pity. God, I hate that.

"Those assholes! I had no idea. I knew something else was going on, but I didn't expect that. I'm sorry, Z. I wish I would have gone with you to protect you," Miguel curses himself.

"No, it isn't your fault. I shouldn't need somebody to protect me; that's the whole reason I joined Cobra Kai," I remind him.

"I know, but three against one is just cruel," Miguel says.

"That's how the world works," I say bitterly. "Um... Miguel?" His eyes meet mine. "Can we keep the truth between us and say I only sprained my ankle skating? I don't want everyone to know about my... encounter."

"Yeah, sure. I can't relate to the pain, but I sympathize with you," he says with a soft smile.

"Thank you," I nod, looking back down at my ring.

A knock comes at the door and Miguel leaves me to get up to go over to it.

I'm just thankful the only visible mark from last night is my ankle; I can easily lie I got hurt skating. I mean, Miguel won't tell people I'm lying, so I think I'm okay. Plus, those guys are gone for good, so that's reassuring.

"Hey, are you ready to go?" I hear a voice say at the door.

I look over my shoulder to see Tory and realize she was also at the skating rink and I wonder if she'll call my bluff.

"Yeah, I... Wait, I can't leave Z," I hear Miguel say.

"She can come, too," Tory says.

"No, she can't," Miguel sighs.

"Why not?" I ask and they turn to me. "Hey, Tory."

"Hey. We're going out for a run and training session before Cobra Kai today. You're welcome to come if you want," Tory says and I realize that's why Miguel said no.

"Actually, I can't come. I sprained my ankle," I say and her face turns to confusion.

"What?" she walks over to me and gasps when her eyes land on my ankle. "Oh my God. How'd that happen?"

I hate the look she has on her face. Sympathy. Sympathy for me. I hate being the victim. I hate being looked at and treated like a piece of glass and so far that's all this injury has caused.

"She fell on her skates," Miguel says.

"You didn't fall on skates with us," Tory says in confusion.

"Okay, the truth is that I fell earlier on the pavement outside. It was a freak thing when I tripped on the curb," I explain and Miguel looks at me in question, wondering why I'm using this lie. 

"Oh, I'm sorry," Tory frowns.

"It's fine. I'm just going to tell everyone I fell on my skates last night, though. It's embarrassing to trip and sprain your ankle, but saying you did it on skates sounds better," I elaborate, hoping she'll buy into this.

"Oh, yeah, that's valid. Whatever you need to say works with me," Tory says. She's so chill about all of this and it makes me happy. I don't necessarily like to lie, but not everybody needs to be in my business.

I look at Miguel and nod for him to go along with it. It's obvious he doesn't understand, but willingly goes with the lie; I just feel badly that he has to lie to his girlfriend.

"It sucks that you'll have to go back to school on crutches," Tory continues. Damn, that's right.

"Actually, Miguel's mom said Miguel has an ankle boot and maybe by Monday I can wear that," I say hopefully.

"That's only two days away. No offense, but your ankle looks awful," Tory says and I nod.

"I know. It hurts like a bitch, but I will take care of it and be back on both feet in no time," I assure them. "Now, you two go train and come back when we have to head over to Cobra Kai."

"No, I don't want to leave you," Miguel says.

"Don't worry. I'm safe here and I refuse to stand in the way of your morning together," I tell him. I really like Tory and him together and I hate to think I would prevent that.

"If you're sure," Miguel says.

I nod, looking over at Tory who obviously was excited for this morning. "I'm positive. Go have fun." I put on a half smile as they stand up, thank me, and walk out together.

Once the door closes, I lay my head back and groan. My ankle is throbbing and in pain. I can't even do the one thing I love anymore: karate.

Still, I scoot off the couch and to the ground, being very careful of my injury. Then I lay on my back and put my knees up. I work on crunches, knowing that I need to stay in shape in somehow. Plus, the workout helps clear my mind and it actually comforts me.

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A little while later, I'm watching Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and my phone rings. I mute the TV and turn to my phone only to see Moon is calling me.

"Hello?" I ask in confusion. I never thought I'd hear from her again since she was so pissed after the mall fight. stand by the fact that Demetri deserved it.

"Z! I'm so glad you answered. I'm having a party with some friends tonight and was wondering if you'd like to come," she says and I smile a little at this. 

"Oh, that sounds cool. Yeah, I'll come," I say, happy she doesn't seem mad at me anymore.

"Great! I'll text you the address. You can also bring some of your karate friends. It's to celebrate our last weekend of summer," she explains with a laugh.

This actually seems pretty fun. The only downside is inviting Hawk, but maybe I can make him jealous. I always thought Moon was hot and we get along pretty well...

"That's a great idea. Thanks for the invite, Moon," I say.

"No problem. I'm so excited for you to meet my girlfriend. Her name is Piper," Moon says and I'm taken aback. Well, I guess my gaydar was correct, but at the same time I'm kind of sad she isn't single.

"Your girlfriend? That's awesome for you guys."

"Yeah. It's new, but I really like her. She's so funny and pretty and I think you two would get along," she gushes into the phone. I have to admit I'm a little hurt by hearing her describe Piper, but I shake it off; there will be other people there to make Hawk jealous with.

"I can't wait to meet her," I say.

"I'll see you tonight!" she says and I say goodbye before she hangs up. 

I guess I'm going to a party tonight.

⭒⭒⭒

Miguel walks over to my side of the car to help me out. He drove here, despite my argument that my right driving foot is fine. He hands me my crutches and I hop out of the passenger's side. My left ankle is in a brace and it's uncomfortable, but I know it's meant to help me. I dread going into the dojo looking like this, but thankfully I cleaned up well enough to look fine from the waist up.

"You okay?" Tory asks me and I nod. She sat in the back on the way over since it was easier for me to be in the front.

I make my way to the glass doors, most of all dreading the stare from Hawk.

"What happened?" Aisha asks the second I walk through the door and before I can react, everyone turns to us.

I grip on the crutches tightly, wanting the embarrassment to go away; surprise, surprise, it doesn't.

"I fell roller skating last night," I lie. It rolls off my tongue like the truth and I'm a bit proud of myself.

"Mr. Diaz, I told you to be careful there. I guess I should have told you the same thing, Z," Sensei Lawrence walks over; thankfully, he doesn't look mad that I'm injured. "So, what is it? Broken?"

"Sprained," I say and look over to see Hawk staring at me blankly. I wonder what he's thinking. He probably thinks I'm a dumbass for letting this happen; he's probably happy. He is an asshole now, after all. But I still want him back.

"My mom says no karate for two weeks at least," Miguel speaks up. I frown as the whole class listens to the bad news.

"Understandable. Well, Z, you can just sit in a chair and prop that up while you watch today's lesson," Sensei Lawrence adapts to my injury surprisingly easily and I nod, hopping over to the collapsable chairs on the back wall.

"I've got it," Miguel rushes over and gets the chair off the wall, opening it for me.

"I could've done that," I say with a frown.

"Yeah, but I figured I'd save you the trouble," he smiles. 

As class begins, I find my eyes moving over to watch Hawk. They land on him unintentionally. He's so focused and driven, but he also looks angry and different from the boy I thought I knew. I pull my eyes away, trying to focus on the lesson, but I can't. I miss him and it hurts. It's more painful than my ankle somehow.

⭒⭒⭒

"Z," Sensei calls to me after class and I hop over on my crutches into his office. 

"Yes, Sensei?" I ask.

"Don't worry about your chores for payment right now. It's important you stay off that ankle and get better soon," he says.

"Thank you, Sensei," I say in relief. That's really nice of him.

"Anytime. I live across from the Diaz's, so you can come over or call me if you need anything. But don't text me because that shit is confusing," he offers and I widen my smile.

"Got it. Thanks," I say.

"You're a good kid, Z. Just be more careful next time," he refers to my ankle with a light-hearted grin, but I know my smile fades when I hear that. If only he knew...

"Definitely," is all I can say.

"You're dismissed," he says and allows me to hop out of the office first.

I look to the door and see Miguel and Tory already have my things gathered. Again, I could have done that.

⭒⭒⭒

Later on, I'm at the party with Tory and Miguel in Moon's backyard. Tory is already getting drinks together. I kind of want to drink and get myself over Hawk. It'll be interesting with crutches, but I figure I can sit inside for when I get too dizzy or tired.

"Drink up," Tory hands me a red Solo cup and I take a tiny sip to start off slow.

"You guys want to go inside and find a place to sit?" Miguel suggests.

"Wait, Hawk is in there," Tory looks out for me.

"Don't worry about it. I'll sit separate from him," I assure her.

They nod and I set down my cup as Tory helps me hop towards inside the house. It's big and gorgeous; Moon's parents are definitely loaded.

As we make it inside, Miguel stops walking and I look over to see Samantha LaRusso. Then, I see Robby beside her. And then Demetri. And then the rest of Miyagi-Do. My breathing heightens.

Robby and I lock eyes as he sends a tiny smile my way; I guess he thinks we're cool. Are we? It seems like he isn't holding a grudge about last night because it was more Tory than me, so yeah. We're cool.

An uncomfortable, tense silence falls over the room as I feel eyes on me. I turn to the right and realize Hawk and the rest of the Cobra guys are sitting on the couch beside us. Hawk looks pissed as his gaze drifts between Robby and me. The rest of the guys look at me in a similar manner.

It's then that I realize Hawk must have told them I cheat on him and this is them judging me. I feel nauseous, especially when I realize Robby is glaring back at them. 

"Let's go," Tory says and I don't hesitate to turn around and hop back outside to the alcohol.

"Are you okay?" Miguel asks me.

"Wonderful. My ex boyfriend is spreading lies about me to the people I consider my friends," I frown unhappily. "It's so frustrating how he doesn't believe me about Robby. I don't get it."

"Miguel, can you give us a minute?" Tory asks.

"Sure," he nods. When he walks away, she helps me sit down on a stool and sets my crutches aside.

"I've been trying to figure out the best way to say this, but I understand why Hawk - and even Sam - are so freaked out over you and Robby."

"Because of our history," I say confidently. I already know the problem.

"Yeah, Hawk was probably threatened by that, but there's more," she says. I turn to her, paying more attention now.

"What do you mean?" I ask, confused.

"You're oblivious if you don't see how he looks at you, Z," Tory says. I blink in disbelief.

"Who? Robby?!" 

"I noticed it last night at the skating rink. He may like that LaRusso girl, but it's obvious he misses you more," she explains and I shake my head.

"No. No way. We only went out for a few weeks. It wasn't anything official and-"

"But does that mean his feelings are any less valid?" I look at her in shock, knowing she has a point. "You're gorgeous and he's not blind. Maybe you feel the same way and that's why you risked what you had with Hawk for him. And why he risked it all with LaRusso," Tory suggests.

"No, what we did was between friends. The romantic feelings for Robby are gone," I argue, now wondering if I really mean that. Robby likes me still?

Tory smiles, "You still love Hawk, don't you?"

I freeze, unsure of how to respond. Of course I do, but I don't know if I could truly admit it. He doesn't love me anymore. He doesn't want me. He broke up with me.

"Listen, I can tell by the way Robby looks at you that he's not over you. Only you can know if you're over these boys, but you should make a move one way or another. If you miss Hawk, you need to go let him know how much you love him and are devoted to him."

"I've tried. I've tried so many times, Tory! He doesn't want me anymore."

"Hey, they're starting some kind of competition over there. Want to go watch?" Miguel walks over, completely interrupting our conversation.

"Sure," Tory nods. "Coming with?"

I shake my head, trying to wrap my head around this information.

"Hey, I'm not saying to go date the enemy. I'm simply telling you to not punish yourself. Either go fight for him or move on. The space between isn't fun, trust me," she whispers to me before walking away with Miguel.

But she didn't clarify who I should fight for. This is a mess because I have no clue how I'm feeling. How is it I'm torn between two guys? Two guys who hate each other, nonetheless. But Robby is dating Samantha. And Hawk made it clear he doesn't want me.

I look around and decide to stand up a few minutes later to go watch this competition; it's better than being alone over here to overthink. I make it over to a big crowd only to see Tory standing on a stool as some guy falls.

Everyone is cheering and I hear Miguel say, "Winner and still champion, Tory!"

She screams in excitement and it's then that I realize she's playing the game where you drink to see who loses balance first.

She looks over and I follow her gaze to see Sam and Robby walk outside. She walks over to them, Miguel behind her. My eyes linger on Robby, the boy who I know deep down I miss being with, the boy who can make me laugh about the dumbest stuff, the boy who could relate with me on a bunch of things and was always there to listen.

"Z," a voice says and I look over to see Moon.

"Hey," I smile.

"I'm so glad you could make it," she says as her eyes drift down to my foot with a sad look. "What happened?"

"I fell roller skating," I explain my lie.

"That really sucks. I'm sorry," she says. "I heard about the breakup. I'm so sorry."

"It's... fine," I say.

"Listen, Piper is coming late, so I have time to play matchmaker. Are you in?" she asks me and I hesitate.

"I don't know, Moon..."

"Come on! I can be like the lady in Fiddler On the Roof. I have a friend named Luke I know you would like," Moon suggests.

"I..." I hesitate and then realize what Tory said.

"Either go fight for him or move on."

"Sure," I say, wondering what harm it would do to just talk to a guy. Yes, I tried with Big Red, but maybe this time will be different.

She smiles brightly, "Awesome. Follow me."

We walk into her house. She's so sweet to walk at the pace I hop on my crutches. I glance over to see Hawk talking to Assface. I try to ignore it as Moon walks me over to a trio of guys. I'm automatically uncomfortable.

"Luke!" she runs over and hugs one of the guys. He's tall with blond hair and green eyes. "This is Z, the girl I was telling you about." Wait, she talked me up to him?

All of the guys' focus turns my way at this and I shift uncomfortably.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Luke," he extends his hand and I try to maneuver my crutches to get a free hand and he realizes his mistake. "Sorry," he takes his hand away and I nod awkwardly. I don't know if I like being set up.

"It's okay. I'm Z," I tell him, trying to be polite. I know Moon means well, but I don't know about this. I'll try, though.

"I'll leave you two to talk," Moon says and then whispers in my ear. "Good luck."

I nod as she walks away; I'm one hundred percent sure she's high as a kite right now.

"Those crutches look uncomfortable. Do you want to sit?" he suggests and I nod thankfully. We sit on a couch together and he takes me crutches and sets them to the other side of him. "What happened?" he gestures to my ankle.

"Oh, it's a minor sprain from roller skating," I explain.

"Roller skating. Pretty cool," he says.

"Oh, so you roller skate?" one of his friends joins the conversation and leans on the couch behind us.

"Um, not well," I say a little lightheartedly. I don't really like him being there, but I'll play nice.

They all laugh in unison and I get weird, creepy frat boy vibes from them.

"Do you want a drink, darling?" another one speaks up.

"I can go get one myself," I say, not trusting these strangers with my drink.

"Nonsense. I'll be right back," the annoying one leaning on the couch says and runs off.

I don't want to stay here, so I look around for an excuse to leave. That is until my eyes land on Hawk glancing over here and I see him looking in jealousy.

I take some of my hair and twirl it as I flirt with Luke, "So, tell me about yourself."

"Well, what do you want to know?" he smiles a little more.

"How do you know Moon?" I ask.

"Mutual friend," his one friend speaks up.

"All of you know her through a mutual friend?" I ask in confusion and they nod. "Do you guys even go to West Valley?"

"No, we go to Northern," Luke tells me and I nod awkwardly. "Actually, my dad works over by Northern at..."

I space of during his story, looking around for some way out of this yet again. I'm over the whole making Hawk jealous thing. I have decided I don't like these guys.

My eyes land on Hawk talking to a girl. Flirting with her, actually. She's beautiful and has puffy hair that suits her well. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't jealous of her talking to Hawk; I really miss him. But just then I see Moon rush over and... kiss the girl?!

I stare in confusion and then it dawns on me that she's Piper. Moon was right when she said she was really pretty. I see Hawk's posture deflate as the girls talk to him and he walks away in disappointment. I have to say I'm so glad that didn't work out.

"Your drink, madame," the annoying one comes back and hands me a Solo cup.

"I don't really want this," I say.

"Are you sure?" Luke asks and I nod, handing it to him. He accepts it and hands it to another friend who drinks it with ease. I frown internally when I realize the drink was safe and I wish I had drank it now. "So, what do you like to do?"

"Karate," I say and the boys smile, impressed.

"Karate, huh? Very cool," Luke says.

"Bet I could pin her down," the annoying one with black hair whispers to a friend, not thinking I could hear. But I could and it makes me uneasy.

"What's your favorite thing about karate?" Luke asks me. He actually seems interested, so I indulge him.

"A lot of things. It's fun to practice, but the power you feel when you fight is amazing," I explain.

"Power? Like, what? You break a board and it makes you feel powerful?" one guy laughs, obviously not taking a girl doing karate very seriously.

"No. More like when I won the battle at Coyote Creek last week. I beat my entire class," I say and Luke raises his eyebrows in surprise.

"That's actually very cool," Luke says and I smile a little. "Your face lights up when you talk about karate and somehow it makes you look more beautiful." I'm taken aback by the line, but end up blushing at the compliment.

"Thank you," I say and he scoots a little closer to me. I try not to freak out; Luke doesn't give me the best vibes, but he's been cool so far and with any luck this will make Hawk jealous.

"Oh!" the boys around me laugh and I look behind me to see Demetri is soaked in beer. I smile a little when I realize that Hawk was the one who dumped it on him. Demetri had that coming.

"That's what I thought," Hawk throws the red plastic cup at his former friend. "Still a pussy."

Demetri stares in shock after Hawk does that and walks away. It takes a minute for Demetri to look around in embarrassment and then his eyes land on me.

"What are you staring at?" he asks me and the boys surrounding me. 

"Looks like karma to me."

The guys "ooh" at this and Demetri glares at me.

"Maybe, but it'll come for you, too," he spits back and I roll my eyes. "And for the record, I'm really glad you both broke up. I'm not even surprised you cheated."

I stare in shock as he walks away. A nauseous feeling washes over me as I try to regain my confidence and turn back to Luke and his friends. When I can walk again I'm going to get back at Demetri for that comment.

"You cheat on the kid with the mohawk?" Luke asks me.

"I didn't che-"

"That's dope," the annoying friend says and I sigh in frustration.

"No, I didn't cheat. It's a misunderstanding," I say and Luke nods.

"I get it. You deserve better than a guy with the red mohawk anyway," Luke says.

I'm about to say something when I feel a hand on my thigh. Oh.

"What do you say, karate girl? Want to take out the breakup's frustrations on me?"

"Either go fight for him or move on."

"I..." I debate in my head. The breakup was frustrating and it would be nice to get over both Hawk and Robby, but do I really want to with this guy? He's attractive, but I don't know. And I really don't like his friends.

"A pretty girl like you shouldn't be alone tonight," he moves closer and his hand moves higher and then a warning alarm goes off in my head. He's touching me. He's touching me and I don't know how to deal with it.

hallo

"No," I say and he stops moving, but doesn't remove his hand from my upper thigh.

"What did you say?" Luke asks me and I try to control my body so I won't shake.

"I said," I take a deep breath, "no." I pry his hand off of me and he and his friends laugh.

"I don't think I've ever heard you get a no, Luke," his one friend laughs.

"She's obviously not drunk enough," the annoying one says and I try to move away.

It's only then that I realize I can't stand without my crutches that are behind Luke and by one of his friends.

"When someone is drunk they can't give consent," I tell them angrily. I'm so glad I only had a sip earlier. Who knows what my drunk self would do in this situation... or not do.

"What textbook did you swallow?" Luke asks and I realize I really don't like Luke. I really, really don't like Luke. "I just make sure to give the girls what they want."

"You're an asshole," I shake my head and try to stand up.

A hand grabs my arm and yanks me back onto the couch, "What's the problem?"

"You're my problem, Luke," I spit.

"I think you're just scared to admit you want me," he grips my upper inner thigh tightly and I begin to shake.

"Stop," I say in a surprisingly timid voice.

All my courage suddenly disappears as I get trapped in my thoughts, worried about what these guys could do to me since I'm injured. Sure, there are people around, but I don't want to ruin Moon's party. I could start a fight, but I may lose with my bad ankle. I'm torn on what to do, but I know I need to get out of this situation. The problem is I'm so scared that I don't know if I could if I wanted to.

"Z, what's going on?" a voice comes from behind me. I turn and see Miguel. Oh, thank God.

"Nothing. Just friends hanging out," Luke says and I look from him to Miguel, who looks pissed.

"I heard her ask you to stop. Let go of her," Miguel steps closer to Luke and I see a look of... overprotectiveness on his face? Luke isn't fazed until Miguel peers down at Luke with a look of pure anger like when he fights. It's enough to make Luke say,

"Fine. Whatever." Luke cowers away from the confrontation and moves his hand off of me before walking away with his friends.

I sigh and let my body relax a little bit, thankful for Miguel being here, despite the slight hatred for needing somebody to stick up for me.

"What the hell was that about?" Miguel asks me and I shake my head, so glad they're gone now.

"Oh, nothing. Just me having bad luck with guys is all," I say in a fake happy tone and Miguel hands me my crutches.

"Let's get you out of here. You're staying by me," Miguel helps me onto my crutches.

"I don't need a bodyguard," I argue. Then I remember the awful panic that overcame me; I practically shutdown with fear. It's enough to make me rethink my last sentence.

"I know, but it'll make me feel better. Come on," he says and I follow him out to the drinks. I notice it's already dark.

"Well, thanks for that," I say. I don't know what I would do without him.

"Of course. I'm not letting anybody hurt you again like they did last night. Not on my watch," he says and I smile at this.

"You're the best. You know that?" I ask.

"Yeah, I know," he nods cockily.

"So, where's Tory?" I ask.

"She lost to Sam at that stupid drinking game and ran off," Miguel explains.

"Oh, that really sucks," I sympathize for Tory. I hate that she lost to Samantha.

"Yeah. I just hope she's okay," he says.

"Z!" a feminine voice squeals followed by giggles. I look back to see Moon and Piper holding hands. "This is Piper."

"Nice to meet you," I smile and Piper nods.

"Nice to meet you, too. I like your hair," the girl tells me.

"I like yours, too," I laugh.

"Thanks," she nods.

"And that's Miguel," Moon points to my best friend who waves awkwardly. "What happened to Luke?" My stomach churns a bit.

"Him and his friends are misogynistic douchebags," I refuse to sugarcoat it and she frowns.

"Oh, I'm really sorry, Z. They're my cousin's friend's neighbors. I had no idea," she says.

I stare in shock, wondering if that's how this party got so big; did she just invite random people? But as mad as I am at Moon, I know I can't stay angry because she's so sweet.

"It's all right," I nod.

"Thank you for forgiving me," Moon smiles. "Oh! There's Aisha. I have to introduce you to her next, Piper." Moon runs off with her girlfriend and Miguel laughs a little.

"Got anything for me to drink, Miggie?" I ask and he rolls his eyes with a smile. I've decided to drink now because Miguel is by my side.

"Only if you stop calling me 'Miggie,'" he says and I shake my head.

"No can do, Miggie. Give me the drink," I say and he reluctantly hands the cup to me as I set one crutch to the side and lean on the table. I guzzle the cup's contents quickly.

"Holy shit," Miguel says and I finish the cup, handing it back to him for a refill.

"What was that? Vodka?".

"I don't know, but you need to slow down."

"Oh, come on. You've gotta live a little," I argue with a smile.

"Is this because of the breakup, Z? Because I don't think drinking to forget will work in your favor," he says.

"Please just help me here and give me another round," I say and he sighs, grabbing some more for me.

I smile happily, savoring this one a bit more despite the godawful taste. Good thing I'm not a lightweight.

"At least try to take it easy," Miguel says.

"Fine," I agree. He's probably right, especially since I'm on crutches.

"That's her," I hear a loud whisper from a group of guys and girls walking by, pointing at me and talking to each other.

I tense, wondering what the hell they're talking about. I decide it's best to ignore it and turn back to Miguel before I hear one word that triggers me:

"Slut."

That's what my mom used to call me and it's what I've been trying to stop thinking about myself for months.

"Z!" a voice says and I come back to reality, seeing Miguel's concerned face. "What happened?"

"Nothing," I say, finding it a bit hard to breathe suddenly.

"No, what's wrong?" Miguel is genuinely confused and worried.

"Nothing," I say and take another sip of the drink.

I look around and see people every now and then glancing at me and whispering. Why would they call me a slut? Miguel took care of the rumor Kyler, Brucks, Walker, and Brad started at the beginning of last year, so there's no way it came back from that.

Then it hits me. The Cobra Kai boys were looking at me judgmentally earlier because of what Hawk told them and it must have spread like wildfire, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Now, I'm being slut-shamed for something I didn't do.

I beg myself not to slip back into the mentality I had when I was with my mom. Everything happening today is a lot and brings me back to that dark place I desperately want to stay away from.

"Hey," Aisha walks over and I put on a fake smile as I try to forget about it and to talk to her and Miguel. 

⭒⭒⭒

A little bit later I've convinced Miguel to let me go inside by myself and get water and something to eat. I'm hoping it will make me look a little less drunk; I can't have Carmen finding out and kicking me out like Hawk's mom.

I stumble a little on crutches, but decide to just take it slow; thankfully the terrain from here to the snack table isn't too bad.

I look over the table, wondering what to get. I finally settle on a mini cupcake. I go to grab it and realize I let go of one of my crutches and fall a little to the side. I reach over to stabilize myself when someone comes over and catches my arm and my crutch.

"What's with you falling and me catching you?" Robby jokes. I stare in shock at him, but soon after laugh.

"I don't know. What are the odds?" I ask and try to regain my balance.

"Have you been drinking?" he asks.

"Are you surprised? Robby, it's me," I say like it's clear as day and he nods with a smile.

"Right, right. You know, you don't need to drink to be cool. You're already cool," he says and grabs some pretzels. I blush a little at the compliment.

"I'm aware. It's just more fun this way."

"Fair enough. Sam is drunk, too. I'm not used to it. I came over to get some pretzels or something for her." I wince at the mention of LaRusso.

"Pretzels are the worst. Get her a cupcake," I say and take a big bite of the one I grabbed.

"Good idea," Robby smiles and reaches for a cupcake as well. "Where's your red-haired boyfriend?"

Then I realize what I'm doing. I'm talking to my ex boyfriend at a party where my other ex boyfriend is after the one ex boyfriend was the cause of my breakup with the other despite my constant reassurance I didn't have feelings for the one ex boyfriend... Wow, my drunk thoughts are chaotic.

"We broke up," I say. I'm so drunk that I don't even really feel devastated about the breakup.

"Oh, I'm really sorry to hear that," Robby says.

"No you're not," I laugh.

"You're right. I'm not," he admits with a soft smile. "I don't like Hawk, but no surprise there. Um, did he... hurt you?"

I look at Robby in question and then realize he thinks Hawk hurt me in some way. He thinks so lowly of him that he expects him to be abusive?

"What? No, no. Just... emotionally, like most breakups," I clarify. "But I'm fine."

"Well, that's good," he nods. "Well, not good, but..."

"I know what you mean." "...you know what I mean."

Awkward silence falls over us as I try to find it in myself to defend Hawk like I had almost two months ago, but it's hard. I really am mad at Hawk and I don't want to push Robby away like I had previously when the subject came up.

So, instead I analyze him. I try to find that look Tory was talking about; I must be oblivious. I still don't see it, but I do see the boy I knew last summer coming through, the boy who was there before my life truly went to shit - before my dad passed, before I moved, before it was just me and my mom, before the drama at a new school, before karate, before my most recent heartbreak.

I have to admit it it's nice to see him looking happier than when we fought at the All Valley. He genuinely seems excited to be at this party, like when we met.

I don't know what I'm doing because this is exactly why Hawk broke up with me. But... we aren't together anymore. He doesn't want me and it's possible Robby does.

"Well, I'd better get back to Sam," Robby says after a moment and I nod, snapping out of my thoughts.

Of course. Sam. "Sure. See you later," I say.

"See you in school."

"You? School?" I stop him in disbelief.

"The LaRussos say I have to, but honestly... I'm excited for it," he says happily.

"That's great. Yeah, I'll see you in school," I say.

I reach over for a bottled water to wash down my cupcake and suddenly hands wrap around my waist. Oh no.

"Get off," I say, trying to turn around, but fail with my crutches and lack of balance from being drunk. I peek over my shoulder and see it's the annoying guy with black hair that hung out with Luke. Shit. "GET OFF!" I yell and call attention to myself.

"Come on, karate girl. Show me some sexy moves," the guy laughs and his hand gropes my butt, catching me off-guard even more. He's obviously drunk, but much bigger and stronger than me because I'm drunk and injured and a lot shorter.

But that doesn't mean I'm going to take this. I lean on my good foot and the table, spinning around and pushing him back a little. My crutches fall with a loud thud as his hands finally let go of me. Then I raise my hand and slap his face as hard as I can. He curses in pain as people rush around me.

I'm shaking again. Shit.

"Hey, stay away from her!" a figure moves in front of me and pushes the drunk guy back and away from me. Robby.

"Are you okay?" a hand grabs mine and I look beside me to see Hawk. His grip is gentle, but I see him glaring daggers at the asshole who grabbed me. I can't help but lean on him for support due to my ankle.

"Y-Yeah," I say in surprise at the fact that Hawk is here beside me.

"They're taking that guy outside and forcing him to leave," Robby says and picks up my crutches, handing them back to me. "Are you okay? I'm so glad I was here."

I get back on my crutches and take my hand out of Hawk's, suddenly worried I'll get heartbroken again. I can't get too close to somebody that easily again; it only leads to disaster.

"I'm here, too," Hawk says in a soothing voice to me, but I see him and Robby exchange jealous glares. 

"I was here first," Robby argues and I groan.

"Both of you helped and I appreciate it, but you forget I was the one who pushed him off of me and slapped him away. I don't need you guys to protect me and then argue over who gets the credit. I am not made of glass; I do not need to be protected."

"We were just trying to help-" Robby is interrupted by an angry Hawk.

"You've done enough."

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Robby asks and furrows his eyebrows. The two boys step closer to each other and I lose it.

"Stop it!" I yell and the two look at me in question. I turn to Hawk, "I've told you the truth and still you refuse to believe me. Just... fuck off. Both of you."

I drunkenly hop away to find the bathroom. I ignore everyone staring at us and try to hold in the tears as I make it down the hallway.

"Z, I didn't mean to make you upset," a familiar voice says behind me. I turn around and see who followed me.

"Then what did you mean to do? Spread lies and rumors about me so everybody hates me and thinks I'm a cheater and calls me a slut?" I ask. "So then it encourages people on to do shit like that?" I refer to the grabbing. "Did you mean to be so stubborn that you don't even believe me when I tell you the truth about me and Robby? We're just friends. He's with Sam. I love you. We've been over this, Hawk," I say angrily, leaning on the wall so I don't fall over.

He looks down and to the side guiltily when I say this. Good.

"But you still don't believe me, right? You came to apologize for what happened back there, but you can't apologize for any of the other shit from this week? I never heard a 'sorry' about the medal. Or a 'sorry' for calling me a cheater in front of our entire dojo," I say.

He still won't look at me when he says, "I-I wasn't the one circulating the rumors. I only told Assface and it got out of hand."

I look at him, wondering if he's really telling the truth. It seems like he's always trying to blame someone else for his faults. And he still didn't apologize.

"Own up to your shit, Hawk. I wasn't honest about texting Robby, fine. But that's as far as it went," the words stream out unfiltered.

He steps closer as I say this. He looks angry and definitely drunk and I'm worried he will hit me like Robby said, but the words just keep coming out like word vomit.

"And I'm so fucking sorry for keeping the texts a secret and for losing your trust. I love you, but I honestly can't tell if you love me-"

And suddenly he takes yet another step toward me and embraces me in a passionate kiss, catching me completely off-guard. His hands cup my face as his lips move with mine. I eagerly return the kiss- surprised- but I know that this is all I've wanted since the day we broke up. I move my hands from my crutches and lose my balance, but he pulls away for a second to grab them as I lean against the wall for stability. He leans the crutches on the wall as I reach back over and grab his face now, having his lips meet mine once again as if I need him to survive. He responds quickly, bringing his hands to support my waist, only to press me even harder into the wall. As our lips move in sync, I realize I never want this kiss to end. I just want him to hold me forever. My hands move behind his neck, pulling him closer. But a few seconds later we both break for air and he steps back in shock as I reach over to grab my crutches.

"I-I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me," he says.

I nod, pressing together my lips awkwardly and then I realize they're a bit swollen from the kiss. I get back onto the crutches and notice I feel dirty from making out with him, but at the same time... I loved it. I'm so conflicted and I try to catch my breath as he continues talking,

"Of course I still love you. You were the first girl I did anything with. My first date, first kiss, first girlfriend... my first time." I blush, remembering that night. "But I'm still pissed about the Robby thing and I don't know what's real and not because I saw you two flirting tonight and all the bad feelings came back to me," he says.

I tense, upset he still doesn't believe me. He lied and broke up with me. He can't be mad about tonight because I'm not his anymore. He can't be mad at me for just talking to a friend. And even if we were dating, that's not healthy. Does he not realize this?

"But," he continues and I look at him in hope, "I'm willing to give it another go if you want. It's obvious you miss me and we love each other. I-It'll be hard because I still don't fully trust you, but maybe with time-"

"Wait. You're 'willing to give it another go?'" I interrupt him in disbelief and he nods, obviously not seeing the problem with this. "You think I'm so desperate I'll come running back to you like nothing happened? You think with time it'll get better and that we just need to wait to see if this works out?"

Hawk nods, trying to understand why I'm pissed. He's taking my love for granted. He broke up with me, put me through hell for the past few days, and is now deciding it's not that big of a deal and expects me just to jump back into his arms and have everything go back to normal?

"I-I can't wait around for you to realize I'm not a liar. I'm not coming back with you on a chance you'll forgive me. That's ridiculous! This isn't a game, Hawk. I can't wait for the boy to come back who is lost somewhere beneath that angry face and childish attitude. I can't wait for the boy who would never, ever spread dirty lies about me after he knows what we went through before Cobra Kai with Kyler and his bullies. I need him back now," I say and take a pause as Hawk processes this. I'm on the verge of tears, shocked at myself for opening up so much. "So?"

"I don't get it. You've been moping around all week and you just admit you love me and you kiss me back and... now you're saying no?" he asks in confusion.

"I'm not saying no. Did you even listen to what I just said?" I ask in disbelief.

"I'm not the bad guy here. You're the one who cheated," he says like a broken record.

"You are fucking unbelievable," I say and turn to hop away.

"Where are you going?" he asks me.

"Hopefully to the future because obviously you're living in the past and refuse to grow up."

I make my way to the bathroom, ignoring the fact that he's watching me limp/hop drunkenly down the hallway probably looking like a fucking idiot. I'm so pissed and I need to cool down somewhere he isn't.

⭒⭒⭒

A little while later, I come out of the bathroom and make my way to the main room again. Maybe I can find Miguel and Tory and convince them to leave early. When I make it to the main room, though, I see Demetri holding the microphone and I tense. I'm not in the mood to deal with him. So, I stay back and wait for what he has to say.

"I'd like to make a toast. To Eli Moskowitz," he holds up the blue Solo cup he has and I realize this is his revenge for the mall, dojo, and beer spilled on his head.

I look over at Hawk, who looks pissed. Nobody else knows who "Eli" is and I know Demetri won't keep it that way.

"Oh! I'm sorry. Some of you might know him as Hawk," he throws the cup to the side. "But underneath that crazy clown cosplay and whatever type of Manic Panic he dumps in his hair, he's still good old Eli."

That's debatable.

"My binary brother. Well, he was my binary brother. You know what he is now? A real zero."

Everybody laughs and I have to admit I feel badly for Hawk, but not badly enough to do anything. This is between him and Demetri.

"All right. That's enough, Demetri," Hawk says.

"Don't let that angry red hair-do fool you. He's a big softie. We watched every Harry Potter movie together. And he bawled like a baby when Dobby died," Demetri continues and everyone laughs. Of course he cried when Dobby died; he's not heartless...

Okay, that's also debatable.

Demetri keeps going and I wonder when Hawk will speak up and do something. I'd love to see Demetri get his ass beaten.

"In the words of Eli's hero, Steve Jobs, 'I've got one more thing,'" Demetri says and I stare in concern. The black haired boy has a mischievous look on his face. "Have any of you heard of sleep enuresis?"

Everyone looks around in confusion and then it dawns on me... Is that what I think it is?

"Don't," Hawk says.

"That is the medical term, of course. In the King's English, it's good old-fashioned bed-wetting," Demetri says.

I stare in shock as he taunts Hawk over something I don't think he even does much anymore; every time I slept in his bed it stayed dry

 "And Eli here is a pro. My mom even had a special air mattress for sleepovers. She called it... 'Eli's waterbed.'"

Everyone laughs and I look to Hawk for a response.

Sure, I'm mad at him - pissed, really - but he's in Cobra Kai and I hate Demetri so much more. Especially for this. I don't like when anybody spreads rumors about me, so I have to defend Hawk when his bitch of an ex best friend decides to talk shit. It's about loyalty and even though Hawk doesn't think as much, I am loyal, which is why I forgave him for the Miyagi-Do stunt he pulled, which is why if he decides fight Demetri, I have his back.

"Screw mercy. You're a corpse!" Hawk yells.

I get ready, setting my crutches aside and hop-limping to the center of the room behind Hawk. Even injured I could beat up Demetri.

"You're gonna have to go through me," Douchebag aka Chris steps in front of us.

"Stay out of it, traitor," Assface says and I still try to make my way over through the crowd.

"Hey, don't touch him," Robby joins the Miyagi-Do side and I curse internally. Aisha notices me and grabs my arm, helping me to join.

"Or what?" Aisha questions. I meet Robby's gaze and he looks at me, upset a moment. Why? Because I'm willing to fight him? He's corrupted by that meditation crap.

"Guys. Stop. We're friends," Moon says and stands between us.

I glance in her direction only a moment before I see Robby and Hawk glaring daggers at each other, ready to fight.

"Oh! I smell a rumble," Stingray says and I'm distracted a moment, wondering why he's here.

Then I hear a siren. Lights flash through the window and I see the police are outside.

"Cops!" somebody yells and before I know what's happening, everyone rushes out in a panic.

"Demetri," I look over to see Hawk talking, "you got lucky! I'll see you in school." Robby and Douchebag push him back.

A mass of people run by me, knocking me back. I try to catch myself and end up landing on my ankle wrong. They trample over me as I collapse on the ground. I'm sure I'd be in more pain if I weren't intoxicated, but right now my whole body is just failing to function it seems. I see Aisha and Hawk left me. Even Assface is gone. I can't go to jail.

"Are you okay?" a hand extends to me and I look up to see Robby. I nod after a moment and accept his hand as he pulls me off the ground and then wraps his arm around my waist in support. So, he practically carries me to my crutches.

"Thank you," I say, ready to bolt now.

"You're welcome. Sorry I wasn't able to catch you that time," he says with a cheesy smirk and I laugh.

"That's okay. There's always next time," I assure him.

He leans me up against the wall and just for a second our eyes connect and I swear time stops. He's so gorgeous with his big, beautiful eyes. They were what drew me in when we first met.

"I-I'm going to go find Sam. Will you be okay?" he asks me in concern, breaking the moment. I nod and he smiles, "Okay. Stay safe."

And then he runs off. I smile to myself. Even after I told him to fuck off and threatened to beat him and his friends up... he still cares for me. I have to admit it's a nice feeling.

"Z, there you are. Are you ready to go?" Miguel runs up to me in a panic.

"Yeah, but my ankle is just going to hold us up. You go ahead," I nod, not wanting him to get caught because of me.

"Not without you. You can't get rid of me that easy," he says and before I know what's happening, he scoops me onto his back.

I let out a little shriek and we look at each other, sharing a laugh. I hold onto him by his neck and he looks over at Aisha.

"You have the crutches?"

"I've got them," I hear Aisha say.

Before I know what's happening, Miguel begins running out of the house; he's much stronger than I give him credit for. I hold on for dear life, getting very sick in the process. Even the little bit of alcohol I had is taking its toll on me.

When we make it to the car, Miguel sets me in the back seat, ""Look, Aisha is totally sober and will drive. You lay back here and..." he looks around and then finds a plastic bag, "use this if you need to puke." I nod as he shoves the bag in my hand and jumps into the passenger's seat.

Then, Aisha presses the gas and we're off.

⭒⭒⭒

A/N: Wow. So much went down. I warned you hehe.

I asked this in the last chapter, but maybe now your opinion has changed, so: Hawk or Robby?

The next episode is yet another emotional rollercoaster because... well, we all know what happens the first day of school :(

I honestly can't even believe I wrote this much for one chapter. I'm proud of myself and I hope you enjoyed it. It's another one of my favorites.

As for season three, there may be a delay due to me needing to do some research about some of Zion's plot line. I can't relate personally, but I know the direction I want to take with the character and getting it accurate comes with time and research.

Also, my class schedule is moving from 2 hours and 15 minutes a day to 7 hours a day live-wise (the American school system is whack, especially during a pandemic) and I don't know how much writing time that will leave me with. But we shall see and I'm see excited to share the rest of season 2 and whatever season 3 may bring to you!