His Indulgence || Book Two

Training

As I changed in the room into my athletic apparel, Eric creaked open the door and stepped inside.

He stood across the room, arms crossed. "Whenever you want out, just simply tell me and I'll gladly kick her out."

I shot him a look and we exchanged laughs. "Not a nice way to treat our guest."

He raised an eyebrow, averting his eyes. "I'd hardly consider her a guest. She's more like a flea. . . Annoying and loves sticking around."

I pursed my lips. "Didn't you invite her?"

Eric shook his head. "No, Ales did. She and her are very close, long-time friends. Ravena was the one who taught her how to fight so, Ales asked her if she'd do the same with you."

A quirky smile came across my face. "Well then, if you don't mind. I have a brutal beating I must attend to."

He pursed his lips warily, "Danica you don't have to do this. You could seriously get hurt."

I squeezed my hand on his shoulder, smiling softly. "I know, but I also have to know how to defend myself. It'll drive you insane if you're always worried whenever I step foot outside the house."

"Too late for the last part," A sly smile flickered on his face, "I'm already insane."

I let out a laugh, playfully shoving him. "Not funny."

He smiled back, then dropping his gaze onto the floor. His expression slowly faded into uneasiness. "But in all seriousness, I don't think you know what you're getting yourself into."

"I have considered this," I took a deep breathe, relieving a little anxiety. "And I can't help but think that if I knew how to protect myself, I may have never been taken by Marcello. I may've never-" Eric shook his head, cutting me off.

"No, no. Look, I'm completely in favor of your urge to learn how to protect yourself. . ."

Before he could finish, I interrupted, "Then?"

"It's Ravena I'm against."

I laughed, "She sure is intimidating, but she doesn't look necessarily. . . evil."

He wagged his head again, "No, not evil. She's charming to talk to, but when she fights— she's a completely different person. She's ruthless and relentless. I won't be comfortable letting you fight her."

I was skeptical. "Well, isn't that how you win?"

"Yes, but with her it's different. She wins almost every fight because she goes in some sort of frenzy when she's battling. She almost doesn't stop till the person is unconscious. She loses control." Eric went deep into thought, speaking almost so soft it had been a faint whisper. "I'm no psychologist, but I'm positive it leads back to her childhood."

"Why do you say that?" I was beginning to get concern.

Just before Eric spoke again, Ales hollered from outside the door. "Danica, what's taking you so long? I'll be outside, hurry!"

"I have to go. I need to at least try. I'm doing this to benefit us both. If she's as good as you say she is, then I'll learn from the best."

Eric clenched his jaw, restraining the water in his eyes. Was he angry, or just saddened? I couldn't tell. "If I won't change your mind then I may at least give you the best advice I could give." After a long, quiet moment, he continued. "Whatever you do— don't go for the easy or clear shots, she'll be anticipating that from an amateur. Ravena is a very good fighter, possibly the best I've ever seen."

Great. Now, I was definitely going to get mauled. But then again, I knew I couldn't let that discourage me. The first lesson would be the worst, but if I overcome it— then it's only logical that I'll make it through the rest.