The Next Challenge

The next morning, Haruki's body was sore, but his mind was sharp. Every time he stepped into the school hallways, he replayed his training from last night—every counter, every movement.

He wasn't delusional. He knew Kaito was still stronger. But strength alone wasn't enough.

"If I can read him, if I can dodge just one of his attacks and land a clean hit…"

That thought kept him going.

But fate had other plans.

—

At lunch, Haruki sat at his usual spot, alone in the corner of the cafeteria. He ate in silence, keeping his head down. He wasn't ready for a direct confrontation yet. He needed more training.

Unfortunately, Kaito had different ideas.

"Yo, Punching Bag," Kaito's voice rang out across the cafeteria. The usual laughter followed from the tables nearby.

Haruki's grip tightened on his chopsticks.

He didn't react, hoping Kaito would get bored.

But then—

"You know, I was thinking," Kaito continued, stepping closer. "Beating you up is getting kinda boring."

Haruki stayed silent.

"So how about we make things interesting?" Kaito smirked. "You and me, after school. Behind the gym."

The cafeteria went silent. Students started whispering.

"Wait, another fight?"

"But didn't Kaito already beat him up?"

"Yeah, but Haruki actually threw a punch last time."

"Maybe Kaito just wants to humiliate him again."

Haruki exhaled slowly. He wasn't ready. His body was still weak. His skills were still amateurish.

But if he backed down now—

Kaito would never leave him alone.

Haruki clenched his fists under the table. I can't keep running.

"...Fine," he said, his voice steady.

The cafeteria erupted into whispers.

Kaito's smirk widened. "Good. Try not to cry this time."

He walked off, his gang laughing behind him.

Haruki sat still, his heartbeat loud in his ears.

This was it.

There was no turning back.

—

After school, students gathered behind the gym. The air buzzed with excitement. Fights didn't happen often, but when they did, everyone wanted to watch.

Haruki stood there, his heart pounding. His breathing was steady, but his fingers trembled slightly.

Kaito cracked his knuckles, looking relaxed. "You know, I almost feel bad for you."

Haruki said nothing.

"Almost."

Then Kaito lunged.

Haruki saw it—

The shove.

Step back.

Kaito's fake punch—

Don't flinch.

Then the smirk.

Haruki's eyes widened. The kick is next!

Kaito's leg shot forward—

Haruki moved.

He twisted his body, barely dodging the kick. Gasps echoed through the crowd.

For the first time—

Haruki had avoided an attack.

His body reacted on its own. He threw a punch straight at Kaito's jaw.

And this time—

It connected.