𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐘. calm before the storm

JOHNNY LAWRENCE'S EYES OCCASIONALLY flicked up from the Larusso Auto Group magazine he had been doodling on. The doodles were an erratic mix of dragons, skulls, and a few choice words that Johnny had absentmindedly scrawled across the glossy paper. Daniel, across the room, was fixated on Newton's cradle on his desk, the silver balls clicking rhythmically, a metronome for his racing thoughts.

Daniel's mind was a turbulent sea of considerations and hesitations, each swing of the cradle echoing a different student, a different potential choice for the Sekai Taikai tournament.

The announcement that only seven students would represent their dojo weighed heavily on him. Every one of his students had worked tirelessly, each demonstrating unique skills and relentless determination. However, even in a field of excellence, some shone brighter than others.

Daniel felt a pang of guilt. He couldn't ignore that some choices felt almost predetermined by their sheer prowess, their ability to execute moves with a finesse that bordered on the miraculous.

He wondered if his favoritism was creeping in, subtle and insidious. Would he give the nod to those who reminded him of himself in his youth, those who mirrored his journey from underdog to champion? Or perhaps, unconsciously, he might favor those who displayed a certain moral clarity, a black-and-white sense of right and wrong that aligned with his own values.

The thought that his choices might be biased gnawed at him, the ethical conundrum intertwining with his responsibility to select the best representatives for the dojo.

Johnny, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. His mind wasn't tangled in the same moral quandaries. He had a straightforward approach to the matter, a clarity that Daniel both envied and resented.

Johnny knew exactly who deserved to compete, his choices driven by raw talent and the ruthless efficiency that had always defined his philosophy. For Johnny, the tournament was about victory and proving their superiority on a global stage. He respected Daniel's need to ponder, to weigh each decision like it held the weight of the world, but to him, the answers were clear.

As Daniel continued to stare at Newton's cradle, Johnny's scribbles on the magazine began to take a coherent form. The names of the students who had stood out, who had proven themselves time and again in the dojo, began to emerge amidst the chaotic artwork. There was no hesitation in Johnny's choices, no second-guessing. He had faith in his judgment and in the students, he believed in.

Daniel's heart was heavy with the weight of his considerations, but Johnny's certainty stood in stark contrast. They would soon have to discuss their choices and align their visions for the tournament. The rhythmic click of Newton's cradle continued a soundtrack to Daniel's contemplation and Johnny's unyielding confidence.

Daniel's hand stilled Newton's cradle, the rhythmic clicks halting abruptly. "We've put this off long enough. It's time we had the talk."

Johnny stopped doodling, his fingers pausing mid-skull. He nodded. "I agree." He then sighed, leaning back in his chair. "I want a 15% bump and control of the showroom music."

Daniel furrowed his eyebrows and shook his head. "You just got here. You're not getting a raise. I'm talking about the Sekai Taikai." He grabbed a piece of paper with student names already written down. "We have to choose our top seven."

Johnny picked up the paper, scanning it quickly. He rolled his eyes lightly. "Sam, Robby, Miguel, Hawk. I'd change the order, but yeah, I agree."

As Johnny handed back the list, he noticed a glaring omission. "Where's TicTac?" he asked, a note of doubt in his voice.

Daniel's face tightened. "Jiji's great, but I'm just not sure."

Johnny's eyes narrowed. "Are you kidding me? She's been busting her ass just like the rest of them."

Daniel sighed, rubbing his temples. "It's not about her effort. She has a troubling past, and I'm not sure we can risk it."

Johnny's expression darkened. "She can run circles around everyone, and that includes those in your little list." Johnny's frustration bubbled over. "She's been through hell and back, and she's still standing, still fighting. That's the kind of person we need in the Sekai Taikai."

Daniel's face was a mask of stubbornness, and Johnny knew the argument was falling on deaf ears. He leaned back, exhaling sharply. The tension in the room was palpable, a silent testament to the rift growing between them. Johnny's thoughts churned, determined to find a way to make Daniel see reason, but for now, the conversation was at an impasse, the silence heavy and unresolved.

Johnny leaned forward, frustration etched on his face. "You're making a mistake. A big one. She deserves to be there. She's earned it."

Daniel's eyes remained cold. "She used to be in Cobra Kai, Johnny. On the day of the competition, she left and joined Scorpion's Eye. Her sensei, Ben Sparrow, is a sketchy man, and that's putting it mildly. I can't trust someone who's had that kind of past."

Johnny's fists clenched. "Everyone was in Cobra Kai! And she didn't stay with Scorpion's Eye either. She made a choice to come to Miyagi-Do because she wanted something better, something different. And now you're punishing her for trying to find the right path?"

Daniel shook his head. "Her fighting skills are driven by her anger, Johnny. Her father's death fuels her, and that kind of motivation is unpredictable and dangerous. It's a risk I'm not willing to take."

Johnny's voice softened, but his determination remained firm. "Every single one of these kids is still figuring things out. Hell, we're still figuring things out," Johnny's eyes blazed. "She's been through hell and back, and yet she still stands. How many kids do you know who've been through what she has and are half as good as her? She's turned her anger into a weapon, sure, but she's learning to control it, to channel it. She's a fighter, and a damn good one. Just because her path to us wasn't straight doesn't mean she doesn't belong here."

His voice dropped, but it was laced with a fierce intensity. "You're going to regret this. Mark my words."

The room fell silent, the tension hanging thick in the air. Johnny knew he hadn't convinced Daniel, but he wasn't going to stop fighting for Jieun. She deserved her shot, and he would make sure she got it, one way or another.

Newton's cradle remained still, starkly contrasting the unresolved turmoil between the two men, each steadfast in their beliefs.

Johnny's frustration was mounting, his voice gaining an edge. "You put Anthony and Demetri on here?"

Daniel's expression remained stern. "They've have shown commitment. They've been improving steadily. We need to trust in their growth."

Johnny leaned in, his eyes fierce. "You think their steady improvement is going to cut it at the Sekai Taikai? Do you think they can replace fighters like Tory and Jiji? They'd get slaughtered out there. They're not strong enough, and you know it."

Daniel crossed his arms, the doubt flickering in his eyes. "Okay, fine, who are your top seven?"

Johnny's voice softened, but his determination was unyielding. "That's easy. Miguel, TicTac, Nichols, Robby, Hawk, Sam, Lee."

Daniel hesitated, his grip on Newton's cradle tightening. "Devon? You only want her because she's pure Eagle Fang.."

Johnny's eyes blazed. "Why are you so obsessed with dojo history? I thought we were all Miyagi-Do now."

Daniel sighed, the weight of the decision heavy on his shoulders. "We are," he said, almost to himself. He rubbed his temples and looked at Johnny, weariness in his eyes. "Clearly, we both have our biases. We've got to figure out some way to get this settled."

Johnny opened his mouth to speak, but Daniel raised a hand, stopping him. "Uh, and before you say it, no, you and I are not fighting."

Johnny smirked a glint of mischief in his eyes. "What about the kids?"

Daniel squinted at Johnny, suspicion mingling with curiosity. Johnny's smirk widened as he continued. "Cutthroat, no-holds-barred battle royale. The last seven standing go to Barcelona."

Daniel scoffed, shaking his head. "Sure, that's all we need. Everyone showing up with black eyes and broken limbs. No, we need to find a fair solution." He paused, contemplating the challenge before them. "What we need is a karate expert who doesn't know the kids."

Silence settled between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. Johnny's mind raced, searching for a solution that would be fair yet decisive. He could see the conflict etched on Daniel's face, the struggle between doing what felt safe and taking a necessary risk.

Suddenly, Daniel's eyes lit up, as if a light bulb had flickered on in his mind. "I've got a bad idea," he said, almost to himself, a mix of apprehension and excitement in his voice.

ANTICIPATION CRACKLED IN THE AIR. THE morning light filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the neatly trimmed grass. In stark contrast to the familiar tranquility of their surroundings, the figure before them in a black and red gi emanated an unsettling energy.

Jieun stood front and center in the line, flanked by Sam on her right and Robby on her left. Her heart raced with a mix of nerves and determination.

The man before them had a peculiar glint in his eyes, a look that sent a shiver down Jieun's spine. The students, clad in their white gis, waited patiently for Daniel's introduction. "Please welcome our guest for the weekend, Sensei Barnes."

A ripple of whispers spread through the group. "Isn't that the guy from the Silver House fight?" Jieun heard someone murmur behind her. The name Barnes carried a weight of infamy, and the hushed chatter reflected the collective unease.

Barnes' voice cut through the murmurs with a sharp, commanding tone. "Silence!" The students immediately fell quiet, their curiosity mingled with apprehension.

Daniel cleared his throat, continuing, "In order to keep things unbiased, we brought in Sensei Barnes to observe and then select our top six."

As Barnes' eyes scanned the line of students, Jieun felt his gaze linger on her for a moment longer than the others. She straightened her posture, meeting his eyes with unwavering resolve. She thought of her father, of the pain and anger that had once consumed her, and how she had learned to harness it, to find balance and control.

Jieun's focus was on Barnes. She could feel the intensity of his scrutiny, the weight of his judgment. She welcomed it.

Barnes stood with a presence that seemed to cast a shadow over the entire backyard. "During my years as the Tournament Terror," he began, his voice a gravelly echo of past regrets and ambitions, "all I wanted was to be in Sekai Taikai. But I blew my chance." He turned his head to Daniel, his expression briefly solemn, before returning his steely gaze to the students. "I am here to ensure that you maximize yours. Everyone I know who has participated in this has horror stories."

Barnes began to walk between the aisles of students, his footsteps measured and deliberate. The tension in the air was palpable, each student acutely aware of his presence. "This thing is intense. Unpredictable. People have died." He suddenly yelled at a kid to move, his voice a whip cracking through the stillness. The kid, scared shitless, scrambled into line, his face pale with fear.

"Who's ready for that?" Barnes challenged, his eyes scanning the group.

Demetri, always quick with a comment, furrowed his eyebrows and whispered to the person next to him, "Wait. Ready for the tournament or to die?" The whisper was barely audible, lost in the heavy silence that followed Barnes' words.

Barnes continued, undeterred by Demetri's muttering. "I will do to you what the Sekai Taikai will do. I will surprise you with events. I will push you to your limits. And if any of you delicate flowers feel like going to your senseis and crying, don't." He positioned himself in front of the students now, his gaze sweeping over each of them with a look of fierce scrutiny.

Many flinched under his stare, their confidence faltering. But Jieun remained calm, her posture straight and her expression serene.

She had faced real terror and real hardship, and she could tell when someone was trying to intimidate her or merely putting on a show. Barnes, she realized, was the latter. His tough exterior was a facade, a method to weed out the weak and prepare the strong.

"I've given full authority for these eliminations," Barnes declared, his voice a mixture of warning and challenge. Jieun felt the weight of his words but did not waver. She knew what these few days meant — a chance to prove herself, to demonstrate the depth of her skills and the strength of her spirit. Her past was marred by challenges and darkness.

As Barnes continued to pace, Jieun's thoughts drifted to the path that had brought her here. The days in Scorpion's Eye, the painful departure, and the uncertain time at Cobra Kai. Each step had been a struggle, a test of her resilience and determination. Now, in Miyagi-Do, she had found a place that valued balance and inner strength. She had worked tirelessly to embody those principles, to transform her anger into a source of power rather than a curse.

Barnes' theatrics did not faze her. Instead, they fueled her determination. She could feel the eyes of her fellow students on her, some wary, some curious. She drew strength from their presence, from the collective energy of the dojo.

She caught Barnes' eye for a brief moment, and in that fleeting connection, she sensed a recognition. He saw her strength, her calm, and perhaps even a reflection of his own past ambitions. Jieun held his gaze, unflinching.

Daniel cleared his throat, trying to regain some control over the situation. "Selections. Let's keep this positive."

Barnes turned his head slowly towards Daniel, his expression hard and unyielding. "You came to me. The deal was my way or the highway."

Silence followed, the tension between the two men noticeable. Johnny and Daniel exchanged looks — Johnny, a slight smirk playing on his lips, clearly liking Barnes' no-nonsense approach, while Daniel's face showed a flicker of regret, second thoughts creeping in about enlisting Barnes' help.

Barnes redirected his attention to the students, his voice commanding. "Get on the sparring deck." The students hesitated, the authority in his voice not quite sinking in. "Now!" he yelled, his voice fierce and booming. The students scrambled to obey, moving quickly to the sparring area, their white gis stark against the wooden deck.

Barnes walked over to Daniel, speaking in low, intense tones, but Jieun's focus was elsewhere. She found herself standing beside Robby, his presence a comforting anchor in the sea of uncertainty. He glanced at her, his eyes softening as they met hers.

"You okay?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Jieun nodded, feeling a small smile tug at her lips. "Yeah, I'm good. You?"

Robby's gaze held hers, a mix of reassurance and something deeper, something unspoken. "We've got this," he said, his confidence bolstering her own.

Jieun's heart warmed at his words. In the chaos of the dojo, amidst the stern directives of Barnes and the weight of the impending selection, this moment with Robby felt like a calm oasis. She could sense his belief in her, a belief that mirrored her own resolve. They had trained together and fought side by side, and now they faced this new challenge together.

Robby leaned in slightly, his voice a whisper meant only for her. "No matter what happens, just know you're one of the best. You've proved it time and again."

Jieun felt a surge of gratitude, his words wrapping around her like a protective shield. She glanced up at him, her eyes shining with determination. "And you better get your spot."

For a moment, everything else faded away — the intimidating presence of Barnes, the critical eyes of Daniel and Johnny, the pressure of the selection. It was just the two of them, sharing a quiet moment of mutual support and understanding. Jieun felt her resolve strengthen, her determination to prove herself solidifying.

Barnes wasted no time initiating the challenges. The first was a teamwork exercise, designed to test not only individual skill but also the ability to work in harmony with a partner. Jieun and Tory found themselves in the center of the sparring deck, encircled by their fellow students who formed a living obstacle course.

Their movements were fluid, almost synchronized, a testament to their shared history and mutual understanding. After all, Jieun had taught Tory the moves of Scorpion's Eye, a style that prioritized agility and precision. As they moved together, striking and blocking in seamless coordination, it was clear that those lessons had left a lasting impression. The others tried to break their rhythm, but Jieun and Tory's combined skills were too formidable. Their strikes were precise, their defenses impenetrable. They moved as one, a dynamic duo whose synergy was evident in every motion.

The next challenge seemed almost comical in contrast but was no less demanding: catching a chicken. The students spread out across the yard, chasing the agile bird that darted unpredictably between them. Laughter mixed with frustration as the chicken evaded capture time and again. Jieun, her focus unwavering, watched its movements closely, anticipating its next dash. With a sudden burst of speed, she lunged and attempted to scoop up the squawking bird, failing.

The third challenge was a grueling test of endurance: wall sitting while holding a large rock. Jieun felt the burn in her legs almost immediately, the weight of the rock pressing down on her shoulders. Her thighs trembled, and sweat beaded on her forehead, but she refused to falter.

This was the toughest challenge in her opinion, requiring not just physical strength but immense mental fortitude. She focused on her breath, steadying it, pushing through the pain. Around her, others struggled, some giving in to the strain. Jieun closed her eyes briefly, centering herself, and held on.

Finally, they came to the simplest yet most satisfying challenge: breaking boards with their fists and kicks. The sound of splintering wood filled the air as each student took their turn. Jieun found this challenge almost meditative. The feel of the board beneath her knuckles, the sharp impact, the clean break — it was a release, a moment of pure focus and power. She struck with precision, her kicks swift and forceful, each board breaking cleanly beneath her strength.

With each completed task, she felt a growing sense of accomplishment, a reaffirmation of her place in the dojo. She glanced at Tory, who met her gaze with a knowing smile, a silent acknowledgment of their shared journey.

Her muscles ached, and her body was drenched in sweat, but she felt a profound sense of readiness. She had faced Barnes' challenges head-on, emerging stronger and more determined than ever.

As the challenges continued, Barnes kept a close eye on Jieun. He saw something in her that reminded him of his own journey — an unyielding spirit tempered by hardship.

The next challenge required the students to navigate a course blindfolded, relying on their senses and instincts. Jieun moved through the course with a grace that spoke of countless hours of training. She listened to the subtle cues around her, the whisper of the wind, the sound of feet on gravel. Her movements were precise and deliberate, each step taken with a confidence that belied the darkness that had once clouded her life.

Barnes noted the way Jieun moved, how she seemed to glide effortlessly from one task to the next. She had the most potential, along with four other students who showed remarkable skill and determination.

He could see that she had suffered, her eyes carried a weight that spoke of loss and resilience. But she handled it with a strength that was rare, channeling her past pain into her present focus.

Barnes watched her through it all, his gaze unwavering. He saw the way she carried herself, the silent resolve that guided her every action. Jieun's devotion was clear in every challenge she faced. She didn't just participate; she immersed herself, giving everything she had. Her past had shaped her and molded her into the warrior she was now.

Barnes could see the shadows of her struggles in the way she moved, but also the strength she had gained from overcoming them.

Barnes knew that in the world of karate, true strength came from within, from the ability to rise above one's past and face the future with unwavering resolve. Jieun embodied that strength, and he knew she was one of the best.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the dojo, Barnes called an end to the challenges. The students, exhausted but resolute, gathered around him. Jieun stood among them, her body aching but her spirit unbroken. She had faced every challenge with courage and determination, proving herself time and again.

Barnes looked at her, a rare smile touching his lips.

The students stood in their lines, their breaths ragged and their bodies slick with sweat after the grueling challenges. The air was thick with the scent of exertion and the quiet murmurs of fatigue. Barnes stood before them, his eyes sweeping over the exhausted faces, a hint of satisfaction in his gaze.

"Congratulations," Barnes said, his voice cutting through the murmurs. "You didn't die."

Jieun stood among her peers, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. She felt a twitch in her left eye, a familiar sign of stress edging its way in. Despite the pain and exhaustion, she remained composed, her gaze fixed ahead, determined to show no weakness. She had pushed herself beyond her limits, proving her resilience and strength, but now the weight of uncertainty pressed on her shoulders.

Barnes continued, his voice steady and unyielding. "Still, half of you wouldn't last one match at the Sekai Taikai. To the twelve who might, join me up here when I call your name."

The students listened intently, their expressions a mix of hope and apprehension. Jieun felt her heart pound against her ribcage as the names began to roll off Barnes' tongue, each one a marker of potential and prowess. She tried to block out the noise around her, focusing inward, replaying every move she had made, every challenge she had faced.

Had she proven herself? Had she shown Barnes the strength and determination that burned within her?

One by one, the chosen students walked up to stand beside Barnes, their faces lighting up with a mix of pride and relief. The line grew, and Jieun's anxiety mounted. She remained still, her breath slowing as she steadied herself, her mind a whirlwind of self-doubt and hope.

Finally, Barnes called her name. The sound of it broke through her internal monologue, and for a moment, she was stunned into stillness. The students around her erupted into applause, their hands clapping in a rhythm of acknowledgment and respect.

She felt a wave of emotion crash over her — relief, pride, and a deep-seated sense of validation.

She stepped forward, her legs feeling light and strong beneath her. The applause continued as she walked up to join the others, her heart swelling with a sense of achievement. She glanced at Robby, who stood nearby, his eyes shining with pride. He gave her a small nod, a silent message of congratulations and solidarity.

Jieun stood beside Tory at the top stairs, the fatigue of the challenges still pulsing through her muscles. Tory gently squeezed her hand, her grip firm and reassuring. Jieun glanced at her, meeting her eyes, and nodded in silent acknowledgment.

Barnes began addressing the group. "Congratulations, top twelve. Meet me back here tomorrow for round two. The rest of you, you're out. Better luck next time." His voice was steady, without a trace of sympathy for those who hadn't made the cut. This was the harsh reality of competition, the unyielding nature of their training.

As Barnes turned to his left side, where Sam, Tory, and Jieun stood, he gave them a nod and a small smile. "You three. Fierce. Keep it up." The compliment, though brief, carried weight. Barnes, a man not easily impressed, had recognized their potential.

Sam extended her hand to Tory and Jieun, a gesture of mutual respect and solidarity. They shook hands, the physical contact reinforcing their bond. They had each faced their own battles, both on and off the mat, and had emerged stronger for it. This moment was a testament to their growth, their resilience.

Jieun approached the dojo gates, her mind still replaying the challenges of the day, when she heard footsteps behind her. She turned to see Robby jogging up, his face lighting up with a smile as he caught her eye. The evening air was cool, and the soft glow of streetlights cast long shadows across the pavement.

"Hey," Robby said, slightly out of breath. "You heading home?"

Jieun nodded, her own smile spreading across her face. "Yeah, just needed a moment to take it all in."

Robby fell into step beside her, their pace slow and unhurried. The streets were quiet, the sounds of the city distant and muted. They walked in companionable silence for a few moments, the tension of the day's events slowly melting away.

"You were amazing today," Robby said finally, his voice sincere. "I mean, you always are, but today... you really stood out."

Jieun felt a warm flush of pride and something else — something softer and more intimate. "You were incredible too. That wall-sitting challenge? You looked like you could hold that rock forever."

Robby laughed, a sound that was both light and genuine. "Only because I was imagining it was one of those heavyweights from Cobra Kai."

Jieun chuckled, shaking her head. "Seriously, you did great."

Robby sat down and patted the space beside him. Jieun joined him, their shoulders brushing slightly. There was a comfortable closeness between them, a natural and easy feeling.

"Do you ever think about what it would be like to win the Sekai Taikai?" Robby asked, his gaze distant as if he were envisioning it right then.

"Sometimes," Jieun admitted. "But it's not that important for me. I think I'm more into the journey, proving to myself that I can be strong."

They sat there for a while longer, the night wrapping around them like a comforting blanket. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in this moment of quiet connection.

Robby's smile faded slightly as he looked away, his eyes focusing on a distant point in the dark. Jieun sensed a shift in his mood, a heaviness settling over him. She waited, giving him the space to gather his thoughts.

"You know," Robby began, his voice quieter now, "I've always felt like I'm second best. Time and time again. With my dad, with Daniel, even in karate. It's like I'm always one step behind, never quite measuring up."

Jieun felt a pang of empathy, understanding the weight of his words. She knew Robby's history, the struggles he'd faced, the pain of constantly feeling like he wasn't enough. It was a familiar story, one that resonated deeply with her own experiences.

Robby continued, his voice carrying the burden of years of frustration and disappointment. "When I came to Miyagi-Do, I thought things would be different. And they have been, in a lot of ways. But there's still this part of me that feels like I'm always competing, always trying to prove myself. I want this win, Jiji. I need it. Just once, I want to be the best. I want to show everyone that I can do it."

Jieun listened, her heart aching for him. She knew what it was like to fight for recognition, to strive for a sense of self-worth that seemed perpetually out of reach. She squeezed his hand gently, offering silent support.

"Robby," she said softly, her voice steady, "you are more than just a ranking, more than a title or a win. You're strong, you're skilled, and you have a heart that's bigger than any trophy. I know it's hard to see that sometimes, but it's true."

Robby looked at her, his eyes searching hers for reassurance. "But what if this is my only shot? What if I never get another chance to prove that I'm more than just second best?"

Jieun shook her head, her grip on his hand tightening. "You are already proving it, every day. In the way you train, in the way you support your friends, in the way you fight with everything you have. Winning the Sekai Taikai would be amazing, but it doesn't define you. You define you."

She saw a flicker of hope in his eyes, a tentative acceptance of her words. "It's just... sometimes it feels like no matter how hard I try, it's never enough. Like I'm always going to be overshadowed."

Jieun leaned closer, her voice firm but compassionate. "You are not in anyone's shadow, Robby. You are your own person, with your own strengths and your own journey. And no matter what happens, you have people who believe in you. Who sees you for who you truly are."

Robby took a deep breath, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.

They sat in silence for a while longer, the weight of the conversation settling between them. The night was calm, the world around them hushed and serene.

"Promise me something," she said, her voice almost a whisper. "No matter what happens at the tournament, we'll go somewhere, anywhere. Just the two of us. Deal?"

Robby took her hand, his grip warm and reassuring. "Deal."

She nodded, her smile growing. "But I was also thinking... maybe we could go somewhere that's special to you. Somewhere you like to go. I want to see a place that means a lot to you."

Robby's eyes widened slightly, taken aback by her suggestion. "Really? I mean, there's this one place I go to clear my head. It's a bit of a drive, but it's totally worth it."

She felt a thrill of excitement. "Tell me about it."

His face softened as he began to describe the place. "It's this little hiking spot up in the hills. There's a trail that leads to a clearing with a view that overlooks the entire valley. You can see the city lights at night, and during the day, it's just this serene, quiet spot where you can hear the wind and the birds. I go there when I need to think, or when things get too heavy."

Jieun's heart swelled with affection as she listened. This place sounded perfect, a reflection of Robby's soul — a place of tranquility and introspection. "Let's go there. I want to see what you see."

He smiled a genuine, heartfelt expression that made Jieun's heart flutter. "Alright, it's a date. We'll go there after the tournament."

As they stood there, the promise of this new adventure hanging between them, Jieun felt a deep sense of connection. It wasn't just about the place they would visit; it was about understanding each other, and sharing pieces of their lives that were sacred and personal.

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑'𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄

one of my boring chapters I'm afraid

and i made u wait for this shit omg I'm so so sorry AHHAHAH

also, some of u might be excited to hear I'm currently working on a xolo mariduena fic with jiji's actress as the love interest <3

very good luck, babe by Chappell roan coded HEHEHEHHEHEHEHEHEH

much love,