Boxing

Gender of your choice

You were never interested in boxing, but your best friend literally dragged you to the university championship finals.

"Please! Everyone's talking about nothing but this fight!" she coaxed.

“We should have gone to the movies,” you muttered discontentedly as you entered the crowded gym.

The stands thundered with applause, spotlights illuminated the ring, and cameras were focused on the tournament's main favorite.

Derek.

Your sworn enemy from a parallel stream. Self-confident, brash, and unbearably popular. You argued every time you saw him, so you really didn't want to see him again.

The signal to begin the battle sounded.

Derek moved around the ring with such confidence, as if the outcome had been predetermined. Within minutes, his opponent was on the floor, and the entire crowd erupted in loud applause.

"I told you he would win!" her friend said happily.

“What a surprise...” you answered indifferently.

While Derek was surrounded by friends, coaches, and a crowd of fans, you quietly left the gym, hoping not to cross paths with him again.

But fate decided otherwise.

---

The next morning, you stood by the coffee machine on your dorm floor, sleepily waiting for your coffee. It was quiet—most of the students were still asleep.

Footsteps were heard behind.

• What an unexpected meeting...

You turned around and sighed heavily.

Derek stood before you. A fresh cut marked his cheekbone, and his usual smug smile played on his lips.

"Hey, nerd," he said, coming closer. "I never thought I'd see you among my fans."

"Don't flatter yourself. I was literally forced to go there."

• Really? And I already decided that you came to look specifically at me.

— I was rather expecting that someone would finally defeat you.

Derek chuckled softly.

• You're out of luck.

You tried to pass by, but he took a step forward and, leaning his hand on the wall, blocked your way.

— Are you leaving already? You won't even congratulate me on my victory?

• You won't get it.

He leaned a little closer, looking intently into your eyes.