Twisted Desires

6. Debts and Training

Hanni stood in the dimly lit gym, beads of sweat glistening on her forehead as she peeled off her sweater, revealing a tank top and shorts. Her furrowed brows reflected the intensity of her focus, etching lines on her forehead that seemed destined to stay.

Stress hung in the air as she relentlessly punched the receiver's hands encased in gloves. As time passed, her movements became more erratic, a manifestation of both physical fatigue and mental strain. Minji's intermittent protests attempted to guide her, but they echoed in and out amidst the rhythmic thuds of gloves meeting hands.

Jackie, observing, appeared disinterested, her routine with the foam pads flowing mechanically. Hanni, in her struggle, couldn't help but feel a twinge of embarrassment. The stark realization that she might never reach the level of skill exhibited by Minji weighed heavily on her, casting a shadow over her determination.

Minji couldn't hold back any longer, frustration bubbling beneath her composed exterior. "Hanni, focus! You're all over the place," she barked, her voice cutting through the rhythmic sounds of training.

Hanni, already drained and discouraged, shot back, "I am trying, okay? It's not as easy as you make it look!"

Minji took a deep breath, attempting to maintain her patience. "You're not finding your rhythm. Let the punches flow, don't force them. And for the love of all that's good, keep your guard up!"

Hanni's frustration flared. "I know how to throw a damn punch, Minji! This isn't working for me."

Jackie, sensing the tension, stepped in, her tone cutting through the growing discord. "Both of you, calm down. Hanni, listen to Minji. Minji, find a way to communicate better. We're here to improve, not argue."

The atmosphere in the gym crackled with unresolved tension as the three women navigated the challenging dynamics of mentorship and the struggle for improvement.

Minji, recognizing the need for a different approach, softened her tone. "Hanni, I know it's frustrating, but we're a team. Let's find a way to work together, okay?"

Hanni sighed, relenting a bit. "Fine, but I need a break."

Jackie, seizing the opportunity to diffuse the tension, chimed in, "Sure thing. I need to grab some water, anyway. Be right back."

As Jackie exited with a casual excuse, Minji approached Hanni, a gentler expression on her face. "Look, I know this is tough. Let me help you find your rhythm. It's about coordination, not just power."

She adjusted Hanni's stance, her touch firm yet caring. "Relax your shoulders, breathe, and let the punches flow from your core. It's a dance, not a struggle."

Hanni, feeling the shift in Minji's approach, nodded appreciatively. "Okay, maybe I've been too stubborn."

Minji smiled, her hands guiding Hanni's movements. "We all have our moments. Just remember, we're in this together."

The tension eased, replaced by a newfound understanding as Minji continued to coach Hanni, their connection deepening beyond the surface-level frustrations.

"Let me lead for a bit," Minji suggested, taking the initiative. She demonstrated a series of precise punches, emphasizing the fluidity of the movements. "See how it's not just about strength? It's about finesse."

Hanni watched, absorbing the demonstration, and then tentatively tried to replicate the motions. Minji observed closely, providing guidance when needed.

In the midst of their synchronized training, Minji couldn't help but notice the details she hadn't fully appreciated before—the smoothness of Hanni's skin, the delicate features of her face. She found herself momentarily entranced, almost losing her train of thought.