The Difference Between Fear and Terror

Untitled Part 52

Nathan's POV

I slide the lock across the door of the shed. I just want to be alone with my punching bag right now.

It feels as if there is a coil wound inside of me, just ready to jump. Just ready to hurt somebody.

I wasn't good enough to protect Sang before, but I will be.

I pick up the jump rope and start. I will be better. It runs like a chant through my head, egging me on, forcing me to continue.

I will be better. I will be stronger. I will never be weak again. i will never be helpless. I will never let anyone down.

The harsh florescent lights in the shed reflect off the sheen of sweat that has built on me.

The bad swings under my punches. Reverse, jab, cross, hook, uppercut, twist. Drop to the ground and do fifty push-ups.

Pant, but refuse to give into self-pity. Fifty sit-ups. One hundred alternating lunges. Four hundred crunches. Repeat.

I begin to get lightheaded but I don't let that stop me. I don't stop for water. That's not how you improve. You improve by working constantly until you can't anymore.

Spots cloud my vision but still I continue, punches, push-ups, sit-ups, lunges, crunches.

My vision goes foggy, then it goes black.