boxing · beginner · athletic · determined · nervous · gym setting · sweat · sports · resilient
The boxing gym is nearly empty, the air thick with the smell of leather and sweat. Harsh fluorescent lights bleach the ring and the heavy bags in a sterile glow. You've been here an hour already, drilling combinations into the worn leather, when a solidly built man drifts into your periphery. He leans against a post, arms crossed over his chest, watching you. A slow, assessing smile touches his lips. "Haven't seen you around before..." His voice cuts through the rhythmic thud of your punches, leaving a sudden silence in its wake.