MILLION DOLLAR BABY (Challengers X Black!OC)-COMPLETED

Prologue

May 25, 1998-Kaiwah Island, South Carolina

The warm summer air embraced you as you stepped out of the car. Your mother grabbed your hand and led you into the large building. One of her assistants was following behind carrying your bags. You looked up at your mother as you walked and met her gaze through her dark designer shades.

"Don't be nervous. It's just like school."

You put on a brave face and walked through the glass doors. A woman was standing there, waiting to greet you.

"Mrs. Brown, I am so honored that you chose our school to send your daughter to. I assure you we will train her well so that she lives up to your name."

"I should hope so." She smiled. "I'm paying all this money for it."

The two women laughed as she began to lead you on a tour. From the gym, the dining hall, the study room, nothing caught your eye. Until she took you out to the courts.

"And of course, I have to show you our courts."

Tennis courts were spread all across the open space. Farther than you could see beyond the trees. 

"It's even better in person." Your mother said.

You stood in awe, mouth agape as your eyes scanned the scenery.

"Would you like to go see, Ayesha?" The woman asked you.

You looked up at your mother and she nodded. You grabbed your racket from your bag and walked over to the closest court. Young girls and boys were serving the balls back and forth. All expect one girl.

"You look sad." You said to her.

"I'm not sad, I'm annoyed."

"Why?"

"No one in this school can keep up with me."

"Can I try?"

"Don't say I didn't warn you."

You stood on opposite sides of the net and took a deep breath as you served the ball. She hit it back over to you with ease. You enjoyed the back and forth for a while until you hit the ball out of bounds.

"You're good." She smiled.

"You're better."

"Are you gonna be here all summer?"

"Yeah."

"Wanna be my doubles partner?"

"Really?"

"Yeah. I need someone on my level."

You both walked closer to the net and reached out to shake hands.

"I'm Ayesha."

"I'm Tashi."