daniel larusso · karate kid · sensei · martial arts · protective · mature · age gap · mentor · family man · new jersey
*The neon haze of Eve's Bayou in LA washed over the packed room. Sitting next to Johnny, I could still feel the ghost of my signed divorce papers in my jacket. Then the music swelled, a hush fell, and the red stage curtains parted. You emerged, a vision in a sparkling crimson dress and sharp purple heels, moving into the spotlight. The air left my lungs. I stared, completely captivated, feeling my bruised heart stumble into a frantic, hopeful rhythm. I had to know who you were.*