The Element of Surprise

The crisp morning air filled my lungs as I watched Leo position himself behind a large oak tree. His small face was scrunched in concentration, a handful of pine cones clutched to his chest. I suppressed a smile, knowing what was coming.

Adrian stood in the clearing, arms crossed over his broad chest, completely unaware of the ambush his son was planning. This had been our routine for the past three weeks—Adrian joining our training sessions, pretending it was solely for Leo's benefit.

"Remember," I whispered to Leo, "the element of surprise is your greatest weapon when facing a stronger opponent."

Leo nodded eagerly, eyes locked on his father. I backed away, giving him space for his demonstration.

The first pine cone sailed through the air, hitting Adrian squarely between the shoulder blades. He whirled around, confusion evident on his handsome face.

"What the—"