When he pulled back and looked at me, Jarek still grinning beside him, I couldn’t stop the smile spreading across my face.
She’s mine. And I am hers.
I grind my teeth, pushing the thoughts away, refocusing on Rian as he lunges.
Strike. Parry. Counter. Move.
“Alright then,” Rian mutters, rolling his shoulders before giving me a lazy smirk. “Let’s see if that arrogance holds up when you’re actually outnumbered.”
I smirk right back. “I dare you.”
Rian lunges first, his sword a flash of motion, but I’m already moving.
Parry. Redirect. Counter.
Jarek comes in from the side, trying to get past my guard. I twist at the last second, bringing my sword up to deflect his strike with brutal efficiency.
“Are we even trying to land a hit?” Jarek grumbles, barely dodging my counterattack.
“You’re trying. You’re just failing.”
Rian snorts, circling me. “One of these days, someone’s going to knock you flat on your ass.”
“You think it’ll be you?”
Jarek barks a laugh. “Gods, he’s an arrogant asshole.”
I grin. “You love it.”
Jarek and Rian exchange a glance. And then they both attack at once.
I let instinct take over.
Rian swings high—I duck, using his momentum against him to twist and send his blade wide.
Jarek takes advantage, coming in hard, aiming for my ribs. Icatch his strike at the last second. Hold it. Push back.
Blades locked. Muscles straining. Neither of us yielding.
“That’s the best you’ve got today?” I grunt, forcing him back another step.
Jarek grits his teeth. “Not even close.”
He shoves against me, and I let him—just enough to let him think he’s gaining ground before I slam my weight forward, breaking his stance.
Rian drives in from behind, fast. I drop low, avoiding his strike at the last second, and sweep my leg under him, knocking him off balance.
Jarek curses. “Son of a—”
Rian hits the dirt hard.
I straighten, blade at the ready, grinning down at them. “You were saying?”
Rian groans, glaring at me. “You know, if I ever get the chance to punch you in the face, I’m taking it.”
“That’s fair,” I allow.
They’ll try again tomorrow. They always do.
