The following morning, Scarlett stood outside the dojo, nervously glancing at her phone. She had asked Robby to meet her there before training started, wanting to make sure they entered together. This was the beginning of their plan, and every detail mattered.
Just as she started to worry he wouldn't show, Robby appeared around the corner, hands in his pockets, looking as calm as ever. He gave her a nod, and she returned it with a small smile.
"Ready?" she asked, holding out her hand.
Robby hesitated for a split second before taking it, their fingers intertwining. "Ready."
They walked towards the dojo, their hands swaying slightly between them. Scarlett's heart pounded in her chest, a mixture of nerves and excitement. This had to work. They had to sell it.
As they approached the entrance, Scarlett took a deep breath and pushed the door open. The familiar scent of the dojo washed over them, along with the low hum of conversation. They were the last to arrive, as planned.
All eyes turned to them as they stepped inside, hands still linked. The room fell silent for a moment, the other students staring in surprise.
Kyler was the first to break the silence. "What's this? The lovebirds decided to show up together?"
Scarlett forced a confident smile, squeezing Robby's hand lightly. "Just thought we'd mix things up a bit." Her cheeks blushed as she spoke.
Tory's eyes narrowed as she looked between them. "Since when are you two a thing?"
Robby shrugged, playing it cool. "Since now. Got a problem with that?"
Tory's gaze shifted to Scarlett, her expression unreadable. "No problem. Just... interesting."
They made their way to the mats, still holding hands, and began their warm-up routine. Scarlett could feel the stares and whispers, but she ignored them, focusing on the plan. She and Robby exchanged a quick glance, a silent affirmation that they were in this together.
Suddenly, the door to the dojo swung open, and a young boy stepped inside, looking around nervously. Scarlett turned to look at him. He was small, no older than fourteen, and looked out of place, his eyes scanning the room with uncertainty.
"Can I help you?" Kreese's voice boomed from the other side of the dojo, causing the boy to jump.
The boy swallowed hard and stepped forward. "I-I'm looking for Robby Keene."
