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“You guys have a basement?” I frown. “I’ve been here how long? How didn’t I know that?”
Cove laughs. “It’s not huge. There’s a small gym down there. Reef and Bhodi will be sparring.”
“S-sparring?”
“Yeah, like fighting. Bhodi has a fight coming up soon and Reef has been helping him train.”
“Bhodi fights?”
Another laugh. “Yes. Go see for yourself. It’s the door beside the stairs.”
“I thought that was where you guys kept the hoover.”
Cove chuckles and shakes his head. “No, that’s in the laundry room. Which is also in the basement. You’ll see it.”
I nod, feeling my cheeks heat with embarrassment. I should have known better. It’s not like I’m a stranger to this place. I’ve been living here for a couple of months now. But ever since I met Cove and the others, it feels like I’m constantly discovering new things about them.
As I make my way to the basement, sounds of grunting and heavy breathing come from down the corridor. The door is slightly ajar, so I push it open and peek inside. What I see takes my breath away.
Reef and Bhodi are shirtless, their well-toned bodies glistening with sweat as they spar in the centre of the room. I watch in awe as Bhodi lands a punch to Reef’s stomach, causing him to grunt in pain. But Reef quickly recovers and delivers a blow to Bhodi’s jaw, sending him stumbling backwards.
My heart pounds as I watch them, transfixed by the raw power and intensity of their movements. It’s like they’re in their own world, completely oblivious to my presence.
Bhodi catches sight of me and smirks. “Hey, little dot. Enjoying the view?”
My cheeks burn. “I, uh, didn’t mean to interrupt. Cove said you guys were down here.”
Reef glances over at me, a smirk on his lips. “Don’t be shy, Malia. Come join us.”
I worry my lip, feeling a little overwhelmed. “No, I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“What’s the matter? Afraid you’ll get hurt…sweaty…dirty?” Bhodi teases, his eyes glinting with amusement.
I shake my head. “No, I just don’t want to get in the way.”
Reef steps towards me, his eyes boring into mine. “Trust me, you won’t be in the way. We’d love to have you join us.”
My body tingles at his words. The thought of being that close to Reef, feeling the heat of his body against mine, sends shivers down my spine.
Before I can even process what’s happening, Reef is standing in front of me, his hand extended. “Come on, Malia. Let’s see what you’re made of.”
I hesitate for a moment as a mix of nerves and excitement course through me. But then I take a deep breath and reach out to take Reef’s hand.
As soon as our hands touch, a jolt of electricity shoots through me, making me gasp and the lights above us surge. Reef’s eyes widen in surprise, but then he grins and tugs me towards him.
“Okay, focus,” Reef mutters under his breath, his words carrying a blend of determination and concern. Unsure if his words are meant for me or himself, I allow him to guide me onto the mat, positioning me directly across from Bhodi. With a careful touch, he adjusts my stance, ensuring my body is aligned for optimal power and stability and then he retrieves some gloves from a stand over on the far wall.
“All right, Malia,” Reef says, his voice steady and encouraging as he pushes the gloves onto my hands. “When facing someone bigger like Bhodi, remember that technique and precision matter more than brute force. You have the advantage of speed and agility. Let’s work on your punches.”
He steps back slightly, creating a comfortable distance between us. “Start with your jab. Extend your lead hand straight ahead, keeping your elbow slightly bent. Aim for the centre of your opponent’s chest or chin. Remember to snap it back quickly to guard your face.”
I mimic his movements, my focus sharpening as I concentrate on Bhodi before me but just out of reach. With Reef’s guidance, I throw a series of jabs, feeling the satisfying impact of my glove against an imaginary target.
“Good, Malia,” Reef praises, his voice filled with genuine encouragement. “Now, let’s add some power and variety to your punches. Shift your weight forward, rotating your hips as you repeat the movements. Your rear hand will be your power punch. Drive it straight out, turning your shoulder and pivoting your back foot for maximum force.”
Following his instructions, I unleash a series of cross punches, each one stronger than the last. I expected to feel awkward and clumsy, but I don’t. This somehow feels natural. I feel strong. Confident. The sound of my gloves meeting the air echoes in the training room, and fuels my determination to succeed at this.
“Excellent,” Reef commends, his eyes shining with pride. “Now, remember to move. Use your footwork to circle around Bhodi, avoiding his reach and searching for openings. Stay light on your feet, ready to pivot and counter. And don’t forget to protect yourself. Keep your guard up at all times.”
