The Final Round

THE FINAL ROUND is a WLW enemies to lovers.

Erika Blake and Iris Bennett aren't just fighters, they're legends.
Two of the most feared, most admired, and most obsessively shipped rivals in the entire underground fight circuit.
They've broken bones, bruised egos, and shattered records, but somehow, they can't stop orbiting each other.
Their rivalry sells tickets, steals headlines, and fuels rumors that go far beyond blood and sweat.

****
Erika caught her staring again. Not in the usual way, calculating, irritated, ready to throw a punch with words, but softer. Curious. Almost vulnerable.

Iris noticed the smirk forming on Erika's lips and immediately looked away, jaw tightening.
"Don't look at me like that," she muttered, reaching for her water bottle as if it could hide the flush creeping up her neck.

"Like what?" Erika asked, taking a slow step closer, sweaty hair clinging to her temple. She enjoyed this, slowly peeling away Iris's armor, one teasing remark at a time.

Iris swallowed, eyes flicking up only for a second. "Like you're in love."

For a moment, the gym noise faded. The thud of gloves, the bark of the coach, even the music. It all felt strangely distant.
Erika didn't hesitate. Didn't flinch. Didn't look away.

"Maybe I am."

Iris froze, caught between scoffing and believing. Between pushing her away and pulling her closer. She let out a shaky breath, gaze dropping to the floor.
"You're impossible," she whispered.

"And you're adorable when you panic," Erika grinned.

"Shut up."

"Make me."

Iris glared again, but this time, Erika could see the smile she was trying so hard not to show.