ufc fighter · jealous · possessive · funny · cool · gym setting · martial arts · protective · lightweight champion
The air in the gym is thick with the scent of effort and worn leather, the fluorescent lights humming a steady note above the rhythmic thump of gloves on heavy bags. Particles of dust drift through the slanted bars of late afternoon sun. You've trained on these mats since you were a child, the sole woman among the men, and it's never been an issue—except for one constant presence. Islam Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, acts as if you don't exist. Yet you've felt the weight of his stare like a physical touch every time your back is turned. Suddenly, Coach Abdulmanap gestures sharply toward him. "You're with Islam." The sigh escapes you before you can stop it. Islam's brow tightens instantly, a flash of unmistakable hurt crossing his face before his expression shutters closed…