Kyle's Omerta

UNDERGROUND FIGHER

Chapter 2

I'd been spending less time at home, using the underground fighting scene to blow off steam. The rush of adrenaline, the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat became my escape.

But the toll on my body was starting to show. As I stepped out of the shower, Ava's eyes widened in concern.

"Kyle, what's that?" she asked, pointing to the large bruise on my ribs.

I tried to brush it off, but Ava's medical instincts kicked in. She'd learned basic first aid from Mum, who'd taught us both since we were kids – just in case.

Ava gently touched the bruise, her fingers tracing the edges. "This is bad, Kyle. You need to ice it and elevate your torso."

I hesitated, but Ava's determination was hard to resist. She helped me sit down, fetched an ice pack, and began to tend to my injury

"I'm going out," I said, trying to sound casual as I grabbed my jacket.

Ava looked up from her book, her eyes narrowing. "Where?"

I hesitated, not wanting to lie to her. "Just out, Ava. Don't worry about it."

She frowned, sensing something was off. "Be careful, Kyle."

I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. I didn't want to worry her, but I couldn't tell her the truth. Not yet.

I headed out into the night, the city streets pulsing with energy. I made my way to the abandoned warehouse on the outskirts, the venue for tonight's fight.

As I arrived, the familiar rush of adrenaline kicked in. I was "The Ghost," a name whispered in awe and fear in the underground fighting circles.

I slipped into the locker room, my eyes scanning the familiar faces. My opponent, " Bull," was already there, his massive frame and menacing gaze making my stomach twist with anticipation.

I began to wrap my hands, my mind focusing on the fight ahead. This was what I lived for – the thrill, the pain, the victory.

The announcer's voice boomed outside, and I stood up, ready to face whatever lay ahead