Chapter 206

Jake's POV

The gym was alive with energy; morning sunshine was powering in through the high windows. The regular thud of gloves against pads, shuffling of feet upon the canvass, was a recognizable undertone to our training sessions. Well, today was different; we were in preparation for a sparring contest which had attracted attention from everyone, including Sarah and Lila, who came to support us.

I went up toward the ring where Alex was already warming up with Coach Morales. Alex was very focused; his movements were sharp and precise. He wore a look of determination on his face, though there was definitely a note of nervousness in his eyes. I couldn't really blame him; this match meant a lot for both of us.

"Morning, Jake," he turned his chin sideways as I made it up to the ring.

"Morning," I replied as I settled into the ring. "You ready for this?"

Alex nodded, yet his expression was cautious. "Yeah… I think so. It's just… I want to m