When They Beg, I Rise!

Matthew was as stubborn as a mule. "If my sister-in-law isn't talking, then neither am I!"

He knew it. He was being played by his brother yet again.

This was just typical, the story of his life!

Orion's tone was less than pleasant. "My patience is wearing thin!"

"Bro, am I even your real brother, or did you pick me up from a dumpster?"

"If you know, you know."

Matthew was livid. "I don't care, I am your real brother. If you're so sure, why don't you get your wife to spill the beans, huh!"

With that, Matthew hung up the phone in a huff. Always getting picked on!

Orion tried calling back several times, but the little rascal wouldn't pick up.

Rubbing his temples in frustration, he texted: "Growing wings, are you?" That little brat!

Matthew wouldn't have spilled something he shouldn't have, making Lemira doubt who he really was, would he?

Orion felt a pang of anxiety.

But from what Matthew said, it didn't seem likely.

Changing into a fresh set of clothes, Orion stepped outside to find Lemira sitting by herself on the ground, looking utterly forlorn. Seeing her like that tugged at his heartstrings.

He walked over and casually tossed a pair of boxing gloves at her, hitting her squarely.

"Ouch!"

Lemira looked up to see Orion smirking at her with a playful gleam in his eyes.

She couldn't help but want to punch him.

Standing up, she accused, "You did that on purpose, didn't you?"

"It was clearly an accident. Did you see me throw it? It rolled over by itself."

"Do you really think I'd buy that?"

Lemira had been wallowing in a pit of despair over what Matthew had said, but Orion's stunt had shifted her mood entirely to annoyance.

Picking up the boxing gloves, Orion challenged, "If you're feeling aggrieved, why not prove your point with a few rounds?"

Biting her lip, Lemira noticed the band-aid on his shoulder. He hadn't moved an inch.

Following her gaze, Orion assured, "Don't worry, I've got it covered."

This guy, could he ever just speak plainly?

Lemira threw a punch, catching him off guard, and grinned as she stepped back, "That's what

get

SWl.ne?

for losing focus."

Orion rubbed his chin, locking eyes with her, "That punch lacked strength. You can do better."

Lemira was determined to prove him wrong, charging forward.

The two sparred on the boxing ring, exchanging blows.

In a lazy drawl, Orion taunted, "Too slow. What are you, a tortoise?"

"Watch for openings. Use your head, not just brute force!"

"Too weak. Put some muscle into it. What, didn't have your Wheaties?"

Lemira was about ready to explode.

Accused of being slow, she sped up.

Then he critiqued her for being reckless, so she started to think more strategically.

When she did, he complained about her lack of strength.

How could anyone's commentary be so infuriating?

Eventually, Lemira collapsed on the ground, spent. "I can't do this anymore."

Orion looked down at her, "Good. Exhaustion means less overthinking."

He handed her a clean towel, but Lemira was too tired to even lift her arms. She didn't move.

Sitting beside her, Orion gently wiped the sweat from her face, ensuring she felt comfortable. Feeling his touch, Lemira's heartbeat skipped erratically.

She took the towel from him, "I'll do it myself."

Orion didn't say a word, just placed two

bayres of water beside t

He was pretty beat himself, Content to en.kikistom

Lemira had improved significantly in a short period, her strength surpassing that of many women.

The coach was right; she had a natural talent.

Wiping the sweat off, Lemira felt a

wave

too tired to dwell on anythineet

They sat in silence, the setting sun casting a beautiful glow inside.

Orion broke the silence, "What did Matthew tell you?"

"How did you know?"

else.

Lemira looked at him, a mix of surprise and apprehension. Could Orion have sensed something?

She knew Orion was sharp; keeping secrets from him was no easy feat.

At that moment, Orion felt just as uneasy.novelbin