The Sunflower Keeper

Fight Club

“Widen your stance!” His rugged voice irritates me. “Are you listening to anything I say?”

          “No… I’m just casually punching a punching bag while answering your question.” A little extra bit of sarcasm leaks into my voice. I roll my eyes.

          “Don’t be smart!” He barks at me. He crosses his muscular arms and tightens them. He lets out a deep breath and runs his hand over his face. His dark green hair falls into every possible direction. His purple eyes appear as he drops his hand from his face.  “Look. I’m sorry. I’m just trying to make sure you don’t die. War between species is on edge especially since they all think we are just flower huggers. Ignorant jerks. Elijah was right. You really need to work on your strength. Your arms are like floppy rubber bands. You can cause a little pain but mostly they just flop around.”  He chuckles.

          I punch him in the gut. “Jerk.”

          “Like I said... Rubber bands.” He shakes his head.

          I turn back around, and force one last punch into the tough punching equipment. I return to facing him. “Damian. I’m not going to die.” I tuck my bruised, sore fingers in my back pockets.

          “It’s very possible. It's also something I don't want to happen.”

          “There hasn’t been a war in what? A thousand years. So no I don’t think it’s possible.” I say quickly then add, "But I'm glad you care." which is true. I could use a few friends.

          “You’re very cocky. I like it.” He shakes his head and grins. His eyes meet mine and grasp a hold on my attention. His hand finds my face. His thumb slowly rubs over my bruised cheek. A warm sensation hits my skin where is thumb brushes. I feel my face get hot.

          Crap! You’re blushing. That will definitely make him like you…

          “How’s the face, ribs. And every other part of your body that got a beating?” He sounds generally concerned.

          “Hey guys. How's fight club going?” Elijah’s cute smile knocks me right out of my mind ramble. Damian’s hand quickly retreats from my cheek, and takes refuge behind his head. He nonchalantly slouches and releases a gush of air.

          “Good, except she doesn’t listen worth a damn...” Damian quickly answers Elijah’s question.

          Elijah lets loose a huge snort at Damian’s comment. “Yeah, I’m starting to pick up on that too.” His glance shifts over to me. “Must be the big feet.” They both chuckle.

          “Just perfect. You know ganging up on someone is not the perfect stepping stone for creating a long lasting, beautiful friendship.” I cross my arms and whip around. My double colored braid switches to my other shoulder. Both of their faces hold a shocked expression. Joy skips around in my chest. Keeping them on their toes is going to be fun. I pause. “Damian…”

          “Yeah?” He says almost as if he believes I might yell at him.

          “Are you coming?” I snap.

          “Right. Fight Club!” He jogs towards me and waves back to Elijah. “See ya later man.” Our paces match, and leave a very jealous-looking Elijah behind us.

***

          The pointy, green grass flattens under my feet. Step by step. I squish the life under the soles of my feet, as I jog around the district. The trees tower over me; concealing me from the radiating sun. Sweat drips down my face, and my breathing grows heavy. I squeeze my fingers together and push on. My thumbs rest between my index and middle fingers. I tilt my head back, and absorb the smell of sunflowers, trees, and tree sap. Yummy. Just refreshing.