Hunter

Self-defense

Hunter

Since I made that deal with Mason, he eased off Gail. She didn't trust him but started coming around slowly. I reassured her that Mason wouldn't bother her. But she couldn't antagonize him, either. It didn't work. You can only poke a snake so many times before it strikes.

Mason was a viper if I had to pick the snake.

For the next three years, we had tutors homeschooling us. Mason figured it would be better than me getting into trouble with my temper. He didn't want to alert his enemies. I didn't want to deal with bullshit.

I also taught Gail and a few others some self-defense techniques. It was Mason's idea to put my training to use. I enlisted Gail to help me.

"Tell me what we're doing again," Gail said.

"Mason wants me to put my training to use," I said.

"Oh, so beating up unsuspecting people. Makes sense." Gail shrugged.

I glanced at Gail with an arched brow while we stood in a park.

Gail handed flyers to teenagers who passed us. "Free self-defense classes if you're interested."

Kids took the flyers but kept on walking.

"I really thought people would jump at the chance to learn self-defense without paying for it."

"You have too much faith in people."

"And you have none. So, it evens out."

I rolled my eyes.

A young kid ran up to us and took a flyer from Gail. He read it before looking at me. "Will you teach me self-defense?"

I cocked my head. "How old are you, kid?"

"Nine, but these kids pick on me at school." The kid shrugged.

I crouched to the kid's level. "I'll tell you what, kid. I'll teach you some basic moves to defend yourself. But never use them on purpose against others."

"Deal." The kid extended his hand.

I stood up and shook it. Then, I showed him some basic defense moves. They were enough to help the kid against bullies without getting into trouble. I didn't need Mason on my ass about misusing my training.

******
Jordan

I strolled through the park to avoid my dad. It was bad enough he dragged Josh and me all over creation. Now, he was up my ass about joining a sports team at school. It wasn't happening if I had my way.

I heard grunting and stopped when I noticed a guy showing a kid self-defense. Why the hell was a guy showing a kid how to fight? Then, I saw a redheaded girl watching them and strolled toward them.

"That's all you have to do to stop someone," the guy said.

"Cool. Thanks, mister." The kid grinned.

"Sure." The guy nodded.

The kid ran off and waved before heading to the playground.

Now, my curiosity has been piqued.

******
Hunter

After showing the kid some basic moves, he ran toward the playground. I glanced at an older kid watching me. He had black hair and ice-blue eyes.

"Did you need something?" I asked.

"Why are you teaching a kid self-defense?"

"Why not?" I shrugged with my hands in my front jeans pockets.