𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧 ~ T. Nichols

The Moment of Truth

In the Dojo, they could overhear Johnny and the owner of the strip mall arguing over rent. Students stretched and warmed up, their eyes occasionally drifting toward the center of the mat where Theo and his mother, Elise, stood facing each other.

Theo adjusted his stance, a confident grin spreading across his face. "Ready to lose?" he teased, a playful glint in his eyes.

Elise raised an eyebrow, her expression cool and determined. "Four-time All Valley champion here," she shot back, her tone light but with an edge of competitiveness.

"Okay, how about a little wager?" Theo proposed, his excitement growing. "Loser cooks dinner and does the dishes."

Elise chuckled, nodding in agreement. "You're on. But just remember, I've got the experience to back it up."

"Let's keep it friendly," Elise said, raising her hands in a traditional fighting stance. Theo mirrored her, both of them poised and ready to begin.

With a swift motion, they launched into action. Theo started with a series of quick punches, testing his mother's defense. Elise sidestepped gracefully, countering with a roundhouse kick that Theo narrowly evaded. The dojo echoed with the sound of their movements, the students captivated by the display of skill and precision.

"Nice move," Theo complimented, sweat beginning to form on his brow as he focused on his mother's next move. Elise smirked, clearly enjoying the challenge.

They traded blows, each one pushing the other to their limits. Theo's speed was matched by Elise's experience, creating a dynamic and thrilling match. The students watched in awe, taking mental notes of the techniques and strategies being employed in the sparring session.

"Come on, Theo! You can do better than that!" Elise shouted, smirking.

Theo grinned, using the encouragement to fuel his determination. He executed a quick combination before attempting a spinning kick, but Elise anticipated his move, catching him mid-spin and using his momentum to her advantage. With a swift motion, she brought him to the mat, pinning him down momentarily.

"Not bad, but you'll have to do better than that!" she laughed, giving him a playful nudge before stepping back to reassess her strategy.

Theo rolled back to his feet, his competitive spirit ignited. He shook off the surprise and adjusted his stance, determination etched on his face. "Alright, Mom. Let's see what you've got!"

The sparring resumed, both of them showcasing their skills with a mix of fierce competitiveness and playful banter.

As the match wore on, exhaustion began to set in, but neither was willing to back down. Theo unleashed a flurry of punches, his focus razor-sharp. Elise countered with a series of defensive blocks, her experience shining through.

Finally, with a well-timed feint, Theo saw an opening and executed a clean sidekick that caught Elise off-guard, sending her stumbling back. Seizing the moment, he moved in quickly, attempting to secure a light hold.

"Gotcha!" he exclaimed, but Elise, ever the strategist, twisted out of his grasp, regaining her balance and launching a counterattack.

The sparring match continued, each moment filled with intensity until, at last, both champions found themselves in a final standoff, breathing heavily but with smiles on their faces.

"Alright, I think we call it a draw," Elise said, raising her hands in surrender, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You've definitely improved, Theo."

Theo laughed, a mixture of relief and triumph washing over him. "Does that mean I get to cook?"