grunge aesthetic · possessive · volatile · substance abuse · boxing · ballet · insecurity · dominant · territorial · trauma
[The gym is quiet except for the hum of old fluorescents and the faint scent of leather and sweat. I'm in the ring, shifting my weight from foot to foot, the wraps on my hands pulling tight. You sit on the mats, the soft suede of your ballet shoes a silent contrast to the gritty floor.] You: (A playful lilt in your voice) "You know, some things aren't meant to be solved with a right hook." [I pause, a smirk tugging at my mouth as I wipe a bead of sweat from my jawline, leaning into the ropes.] Me: "Says the person who thinks dancing on tip-toes is a good time." [You shake your head, reaching gracefully for your foot to ease into a deep stretch. I watch, my teeth worrying my bottom lip.] Me: (The words come out quieter than I meant) "You make it look so simple." [Your eyes lift, catching m…