Champion's return (CLOSED)

[TertiusHuman]

Peter "Hedeon" Puskin

I came to this coffee shop for three reasons, the coffee is strong and warm, the sandwiches are freshly made and the girl behind the counter.

Not a lot of people would recognize her now, but she used to be the golden girl of the boxing world. She had a meteoric rise, the media could not get enough of her and the sponsors vied heavily to support her. Even I knew that she was too young and inexperienced to go up against the woman's champion, Stacy Quade. The first bout was a hard, drawn-out fight, Stacy was not ready for the toughness of the new kid, but she was a willy character. It took one slip, a slight bit of misdirection and the champion struck.

The second bout was too soon and even I knew that she was not ready to face Stacy again, I knew the sponsors wanted it, they pushed as a champion would be exactly what would heighten their stock. It was a hunt for money and prestige and the young girl had no idea that she had been manipulated. I may not have been on her crew or have been part of the match, but I had been in enough situations inside the ring throughout my years to know exactly what happened. This time Stacy was ready, but the kid wasn't.

Stacy maneuvered her into the correct position and this time the strike to the back of the head placed her on the mat and kept her there, she had to be stretchered off, and if you believed the news, directly to the hospital. She fell from the grid after that and one day she walked into this coffee shop around three months ago. I could not believe it and when she struck out at the previous server for making a derogatory remark about her being a weak woman, I could see that still had it. She broke his jaw with one cross punch and he did not rise for a few minutes, it was then that Tony, the owner, stepped in. They had words and she ended up getting a job and a small apartment above the coffee shop.

I knew that she only saw me as a regular and had no real idea as to who I really am.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Kate-Marie

My job was to banish my demons… what I was paid to do was make coffee. My alarm had just gone off and I was slowly getting out of bed. Getting out of bed should be easy. But drinking a bottle of vodka the night before made it difficult. I was good at making simple things harder.

The room I lived in was small. This allowed me to make use of the walls to keep myself upright and work my way over to the postage-stamp sized bathroom. I turned the shower water on as I pulled off my clothing. I had not slept well. After my injury, sleep was difficult. I needed to be fully exhausted, mentally and physically, before I truly fell asleep. The Vodka was my sleep aid, when I could not achieve full exhaustion.

I grasped the hem of my sports bra and eased it up and over. The thing was made to hold everything in place, and it took a damn village to get in and out of it, like a modern-day corset. As I pulled it off, my chest let out a sigh of freedom. Having a big chest had advantages and disadvantages. The sports bra was a disadvantage.

The hot water of the shower helped me center and wake up. I could not lose this job. The pay sucked, but at least I had a place to live. I have a strong will and I knew how to focus. I washed up and got out of the shower. I could now stand without the help of the walls.

I pulled up the murphy bed, which opened up more room to dress. I put on my last set of clean cloth and arranged the nightstand, chair and accent table to make the bedroom into a living room. Then I headed downstairs to open up the coffee shop.

Tony was not there. I was glad. I wanted to sober up more before I saw him. He had given me a few “looks” of disappointment over my drinking. I really was not in the mood for another one of those looks. The morning was slow, but after an hour, I was all smiles and customer service. Well, at least as much customer service as I was capable of.View attachment 2187437

 

[TertiusHuman]

It was my usual time, 11h30 when I walked into the coffee shop, wearing my regular well-worn baseball cap, brown boots, blue jeans, and a faded check shirt over a black t-shirt. Kate-Marie was behind the counter, looking worse for wear if you knew what to look for. I sat at my usual table, right at the front, back to the wall, giving me a great view of the entire shop, as small as it was.

Kate-Marie came over, already carrying a large cup of the strong coffee she made, it cost more than the previous garbage, but the price was worth the taste and kick it gave. I took off my cap and placed it on the table, "Thank you."

"You'll have the usual?"

I nodded and she returned to the counter to disappear into the back a few moments later. I read the newspaper on my phone, drinking my coffee as the sounds and smells of freshly prepared food came from the back. The last place you would expect a decent cup of coffee with some of the best sandwiches would be Tony's Cuppa. The shop is tucked in next to a bar, which basically caters to the roughest or toughest, if there weren't at least two fights with bloodshed a day, it's been a bad day.

I have so far only seen Kate having to deal with the remnants or early arrivals of the bar next door, she had really made a difference in the coffee and food, and Tony's has now become my favorite place to read my newspaper and do my work from. Many people who come in only see a busty, pretty girl with a nice smile, but when I look at her, I can see the step of a fighter, it was still in her, only buried beneath the excesses of a life spent surviving.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Business Funny and Otherwise

Demons… are evil spirits that can possess people or act as tormentors in hell. My demons did both. I was not always the coffee server at Tony’s Cuppa. I had money and promising career at one point in my life. Then I was knocked down. The saying goes, “a winner is that person who gets up one more time than she is knocked down”. I got back up and tried again. I was knock down again, but this time there was no way to get back up. That is why I’m here. That failure is one of my demons. The other demon is Stacy Quade.

Serving coffee and fresh sandwiches is keeping me alive. I have to figure out a way to remove my demons. To rid my mind of them. Or forever let them torment me in my own hell.

One of my regulars came in. He was a big guy. Huge actually. But he was always nice. I brought him his coffee and then he ordered his usual. I went to the back to prepare it. His name was peter, but I called him “big guy”. He really like the improvements I had made to the coffee shop. So had many other customers. Business had picked up 30% even after I increased the prices. Tony had noticed his profit margin going up and put up with my other “quirks”.

With the sandwich ready, I headed back out to the front. Another of my regular was there, but he was not my favorite, Bob Burner. He was at least 65 years old and always trying to hit on me.

“Hey Kate…” He said in a low sexy voice

“Don’t start, Bob” I countered as I pushed past him to deliver the sandwich to Peter.

“I’m not starting anything” Bob countered as he watched my ass walk away from him. “But I want too” He added as he reached down and grabbed his crotch.

“Here you go, big guy” I told Peter as I dropped off his order. Then I turned to face Bob.

“Can’t find your cock? Neither can most of your dates” I said back to Bob. He quickly pulled his hand away from his crotch.

“Are you going to ask me what I want?” Bob asked as he pointed to the chalkboard listing today’s coffee choices. Bob did this same joke every time he came in. I knew it was a trap. But asked anyhow.

“What do you want Bob?” I asked

“To put my cock between your tits!” Bob answered laughing at his joke.

“Bob, the only way you’ll ever get laid is if you crawl up a chicken’s butt and wait.” I countered and then demanded that he order for real “Now order, or leave”

“Large Vanilla Latte” Bob answered

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I acknowledged the sandwich with a thank you and watched as a lecherous regular tried to be funny or get lucky, I was never sure with him. But in the end, I knew that it was best not to waste my time thinking about it, if the man tried anything, I knew that Kate-Marie could handle it. I read my newspaper on my phone, decided that it really was time to upgrade to a tablet, and ate my sandwich, Kate refilled my cup once before I was done.

Bob had already gone, his tomfoolery only getting him the sharp end of Kate's tongue and nothing more. Usually, this was when I called it a day and headed back home, but it had started raining outside and the temperature had dropped. I decided to stick around a bit longer and ordered another cup of coffee, this was the quietest hour, just after break time and just before the customers for the bar started to show up. I sat in my corner, slowly drinking my coffee when the man came in. He was dripping wet and didn't look around, his gaze was fixed on the counter. Kate-Marie was facing away cleaning one of the coffee machines, the man walked closer, digging into a pocket of his dirty hoodie, and withdrew a snub-nosed revolver.

"Give me your money!"

His name was high-pitched and shaky, the revolver trembling slightly as he pointed it at Kate-Maire, she turned around startled, took in the scene, and raised her hands high enough to be seen and not seem threatening. The young man pointed the gun at the cash register and then back at her, she moved to the register and pressed the button to open the cash drawer. The man darted forward, his revolver pointed at Kate-Marie as he dug his hand into the drawer. I took a sip of coffee and placed the mug down on the table with a hard clang, the man spun around and saw me, his hand swung around to point the revolver at me and that was the opening that Kate-Marie needed. She step forward, and the man sensed the movement, turning back to meet her cross hook to the face. He went down like a sack of potatoes, the gun clattering from his lifeless fingers, I lifted my cup and drank down the last of the coffee, "I think calling the police is a good idea."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Conflict

Conflict is everywhere. We all experience it in one form or another. Physical fighting is the rawest, most primal type of conflict. I’m not sure I “enjoy” it, in the classic sense of the word, but I’m good at it. I can always find myself as I train and as I fight. It was one aspect of my life, where I was able to be satisfied. After the accident, it was no longer a possibility.

But those skills were still in me. As the robber pulled the gun on me. I knew right away I was in a serious conflict situation. As Nietzsche wrote, this was a situation where I could find “the hero hidden in my soul.”

Peter banged his coffee cup and that provided me the opportunity I needed. I put everything I had in my punch and aimed at his jaw line. A powerful shock to that nerve, caused most people to black out.

As my fist impacted, I knew I had hit the right spot. He fell to the ground unmoving. I moved around the counter and kicked the gun over to Peter as he suggested I call the police.

“Yes, you are always full of good ideas” I agreed with a silly smile on my face.

I pulled out my cell phone and called the police. "Peter, thanks for the assist. I owe you one. I'm not sure how to repay you..." Then the police picked up.

"Yes, I need to report an attempted armed robbery..."

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I stopped the gun with my foot and kept it there, I was not going to be the idiot with a weapon in his possession when the police arrived at a reported failed armed robbery. Also, fingerprints.

I waited for Kate-Marie to finish her call and said, "Well, you can repay me by letting me put my cock between your tits." My imitation of Bob's voice was not perfect, at first she gave me a glare, but then she realized what I had done and she burst out laughing, we both laughed actually. Doesn't matter how tough and strong you think you are, having a firearm pointed at you is nothing to sneer at.

"But, I will take a refill while we wait and I think pour yourself one and come sit down with me, I don't think he's getting up anytime soon."

Most people would think that the gruff older man would want the pretty young girl to sit with him so that he could take a shot, he did just help her to prevent a robbery, but my motives were far removed from that. In fact, the moment Kate-Marie had walked into the shop, I had wondered how to approach her and this was the perfect opportunity.

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Conversation

Peter’s joke had lightened the mood. I was still coming off the high stress situation of the robbery attempt. He used humor to get me to unwind. He was an impressive man. A lot smarter than he looked. I really know almost nothing about him.

“That sounds like a great idea” I agreed. I went over to the coffee machine and made two prefect cups of coffee. Making coffee had become a ritual that I cherished. The process and result were a splendid way for me to achieve peace of mind. I like coffee and I was good at making it.

This realization of a skill I had, increased my gratitude of this job. The pay still sucked however!

I walked back over with our two cups of coffee and placed them on the small table. Then I took a seat across from Peter.

“Peter, I owe you a lot more than a cup of coffee.” I started “I’ve wanted to get to know you better, but the demands of this place have prevented it. Please tell me a little about yourself” I said.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I looked at Kate and sipped on my coffee, she looked a bit more relaxed now.

"Well, my full name is Peter Puskin, but people used to call me Hedeon."

Kate-Marie's eyes went slightly wider, "Wait, did you say Hedeon? The Destroyer?"

I chuckled, "Should have known that you'd recognize that name."

"Of course! You were the World Heavyweight Champion until you decided to retire. It was said that you were one of the toughest, hardest-hitting boxers of your time."

"Seems like you know enough about me now." I grinned, just as the police vehicle pulled up outside. She got up and met the officers, they bagged the revolver, and after checking vitals, placed the man into the back of the car, before they took statements from the two of us. After the cops left, Kate sat down again opposite me, looking at me with a different look than before she knew who I was. I really didn't hope she idolized me from my years as a boxer.

"So Kate-Marie, the Rocket Girl, you know my professional life and I know yours, I have also gleaned a bit of your personal life by now and I bet that you want to know why I come here every day even though you make a good coffee?"

She nodded, "The thought did cross my mind a few times in the last hour or so."

The music from the bar was starting up, I leaned forward, "I came here because I have an offer for you. Taking into account your past, you can refuse this offer and we can return to what had been our norm. Or you can accept and be the Rocket Girl once again."

She was smart, I could see that she already knew what I was going to offer, but I said it anyway, "I know about the neck injury, I know that most days you are in pain. The last thing you would expect is to get back into the ring."

I took out my phone and opened a photo, sliding the phone over for her to see the X-Ray, "I had a doctor I know and trust look at that, that is the last X-Ray that was taken before you got sent home. He told me that it will take minor invasive surgery and minimal rehab, but the injury can be fixed."

"And what will this cost me? You should know that I have no money."

That was when I dropped the offer, "I want you to fight again, to train with me and get back into the ring."

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Rejection

Hedeon, The Destroyer! He was a legend. Not only a great boxer, but a great man. He had been a true hero. He had always stood up for what he believed in, even when it was not popular. I was amazed I had not recognized him early. He looked very different. But once he said his name, I saw it was him. I was a little star struck.

Then he revealed that he knew who I was and knew about my neck injury. All my demons appeared in my mind. They took over. I immediately blocked his offer with “I can’t afford the surgery”

“I’ll pay for it” He countered.

“I’m too old.” My next counter

“I was winning championships at twice your age” He countered

“I’m not you” I countered

“You can be” He countered

“I have no sponsors or any sponsorship potential” I countered.

He laughed “Bob will sponsor you” He joked to ease the tension. “…and so would most of your customers. I think even Tony would help, given how many people will be coming here for coffee.” He added.

I stood up “FUCK BOB… FUCK ALL OF YOU” I screamed. It was a wild punch counter attack. There were tears streaming down my face. The demons, my failures and Stacy Quade, had won.

Peter remained quiet looking at me as I stood in total defiance, hands on my hips, staring at him. He was taking all my punches, my counter arguments, and letting me punch myself out.

When my stare and tears no longer worked, Peter said quietly “Those are your demons talking”

Of course, he had, out of pure luck, chosen the correct word “demon” as his last counter. Like the champ he was, that counter punch worked.

“I just can’t…” I answered weakly.

He stood up and hugged me. “You need to visualize how you want to face what life dishes your way. How would you want to react to a robber in a coffee shop? How would you want to face a neck injury? This visualization is what will move you forward.”

His words were like magic. He had subdued my demons, at least for a moment.

I’m not sure why, maybe it was the robbery attempt, finding out he was Hedeon, or the temporary defeat of my demons, but I latched on to his lips and kissed him.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I had expected the outburst, but there was so much venom in it that it would have shaken anybody who only saw the pretty face and smile. I understood, understood much better than what she could have ever known. I had faced my own demons many times, even trying to drown them like she was currently doing, blaming some pain for the cause, never standing up to those demons.

Finally, she was done, the bitterness and anger gone, leaving only the sad young girl behind, the one that was left alone when she needed support the most. I hugged her, making her understand that I understood and that I could relate, what I did not expect was for her to kiss me.

It wasn't one of those "we have been flirting for ages" type of kiss either, it came from somewhere inside of her and it almost bordered on being the one thing she needed to remain sane. It was also a shock as I was never the kind to attract women, getting kissed was not on my list of things that regularly happened to me, but I knew enough to reciprocate the kiss until she pulled back, looking shocked at first and then a slight smile came to her lips.

"Well, at least you are not gay."

I knew of the rumors, since through all my years I had never been seen with a woman, nor have I been involved with one. I chuckled and shook my head, "I think Bob will kill me if he found out about this."

She laughed a shaky little laugh, "It will be our little secret then."

"But seriously now, think about it. You don't have to answer me now, but you will not have to worry about sponsorship or paying for the surgery. There are no strings attached, you can train and if you feel ready, you can fight and if you decide to not fight, that will be your decision."

I rested my hand on her shoulder, "You still have greatness inside you. I only want to help you to bring it out again and show yourself that there's a champion inside of you."

I squeezed her shoulder gently, "Stacy is now an Undisputed champion, holding three titles. She's grown so used to winning that she brags about being the best in the world, that there is nobody who can beat her. She claims to be money. I watched both your fights with her and believe me, you are her Kryptonite. You are the one to make her fall and prove the world wrong when they broke you down after losing to her. But, it remains your decision. If you say no, that will be the end of it. I will never mention it again."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Thinking

It had been a long day. I had thought about what Peter had said. "You still have greatness inside you. I only want to help you to bring it out again and show yourself that there's a champion inside of you."

I was still thinking about it. I did not know if I had “greatness” inside me. I had not been acting like a champion. Do champions live above coffee shops? Do champions use vodka at night? I got out of bed and headed over for my nightly drinking. I opened the freezer and pulled out the bottle.

“I could toast to the champion inside me” I joked to myself. Then I stared at the bottle. It was not funny. I needed to turn my life around. Vodka was not a solution; it was a crutch. I put the bottle back in the freezer. I went to my closet and looked around for my running shorts, shirt, and shoes. I put them on and went out for a run.

I know it was crazy. 11:00 at night and I was running. I ran for a long time. When I returned to my room, I was exhausted. I fell asleep, no problem.

The next morning, I was up and ready for the day. I was sore, but I felt great. I think that feeling was when I made the decision to accept Peter’s offer. I went down to the shop and opened up. There were several customers at tables when Tony showed up.

“Good morning” I said as I prepare his cup of coffee.

“Did you open early?” He asked

“Yes, I was up and figured why not.” I answered.

“Hmm” He grunted. There were plenty of customers so he could not really complain. He did not pay me by the hour, so opening early only cost him some electric. I handed him his cup of coffee.

“I heard about yesterday. Good job” Tony said as he took a sip of coffee. It was barely a compliment, but for Tony that was as much as I was going to get.

“You need to thank Peter too. He put his life on the line for this place” I told him.

“Crap” Tony grumbled “He’ll probably sue me”

“Peter? No way.” I told Tony.

“I’m sure the newspaper will get a hold of the story. That will hurt business. People will think this is a dangerous area of town” Tony grumbled some more.

“First off, this is a dangerous area of town. Second, if we get them to write more about the shop, the people that visit, the food here, and how loyal everyone is to the place, it might be good for business.” I suggested

“Mmmm” Tony grunted as he took another sip of coffee. “If a report shows up, I’m sending them over to you”

“No problem.” I acknowledged. “Tony, I might be getting some surgery done soon. You need to think about how to cover my shift for a few days”

“What? NO” Tony replied as he set his coffee down to make his point.

I just smiled at him and went back to work. I was hoping Peter would show up soon.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

It was my usual time when I walked into the coffee shop, there were a bit more people than normal, most of them finishing up and heading out. I sat down at my regular table, took off my cap, and pulled out my phone, looking at the headlines. Kate-Marie came over and I nodded my usual greeting to her, "Regular coffee please and I will take the meat sandwich today."

I never changed my sandwich, ever since I started eating here, I had not once varied from the coffee and sandwich, but I saw the walk, the clear eyes and I knew that a change was going to happen soon. The decision just had to be spoken out loud, but the seed was definitely growing after being planted the day before. I could see Tony in his little office, he didn't look very happy, seemed like he had been fed a bag of lemons. He must have noticed my scrutiny, he looked up from his desk and soon enough he was heading to my table.

"Peter."

I nodded in return, placing my phone down, "Morning Tony."

"About yesterday."

I shrugged, "It happens, luckily you got a girl like Kate who can handle things."

"She said that you got involved."

"Must be the adrenaline, I just fumbled my cup and it hit the table, which drew his attention."

I loved playing poker and Tony did not know me personally to know that he was looking at my poker face. He tried to read me of course, but no amount of street smarts would help him this time.

"I just got lucky, if that mug broke, I would have had to pay for it."

Tony decided that I wasn't a threat and chuckled, "Yeah, but thank you for staying after."

"No problem," we shook hands and he walked back to his office as Kate came to my table with the sandwich and coffee.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Conditions

I walked over to Peter and placed his coffee on the table.

“I hope this is the “meat sandwich” you requested” I joked as I handed him the sandwich. I think he got the joke but he did not laugh. I felt I needed to explain it. “You know, a meat sandwich, a sexual encounter in which one man is between two girls”

"I think Bob is rubbing off on you” Peter commented.

I giggled at his comment. I figured I’d better tell him my decision.

“Hey, I thought about what you offered. I’m thinking about accepting. But there are a few conditions.” I said. Peter took a sip from his coffee. Then he put it down.

“I’m listening” He said

“1) I pay you back for the surgery once I have enough money. That is not negotiable. When I pay you… we can discuss.” I said firmly. “2) You are my trainer and manager. I need both. 3) I might need help mentally facing my demons. I might need you at all times day and night. I'm think 50% of the purse. for conditions 2 and 3. 4) I don’t throw fights. I don’t think you would ever ask me too… but I just want to be clear. 5) I’m not fighting Stacy Quade, I don’t care how much money we’re offered, until I’m ready. 6) No weird costumes, I'm not a playboy bunny. I'm a fighter” I said laying out my conditions.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I ran a hand over my jaw and looked at her as she laid out her stipulations.

"I will accept that you wish to pay back the surgery, you will find that it is not that expensive."

I took a sip of my coffee, was it my imagination, or was it extra tasty today?

"Once you signed the agreement and set foot into my gym, you will realize that you would not have needed the rest of your conditions. I will train you by training with you, you will get pushed to your current limits and those limits will be broken. You are meant to talk to me about fears and problems, I wouldn't be a good trainer or doing my job if you didn't."

I leaned back in the chair, "I never took money to throw a fight and I will never do that, nor ask that of anybody boxing for me. You will have sparring matches and you will only make your come-back when you feel ready AND if I agree with you. You were handled and treated horribly before, which almost cost you your life and took away one of the most promising female boxers from the ring. I will not promise you the belt, I will not promise you anything that I don't know for sure can be attained, so I will promise you this: You will hate me, you will swear at me, you will want to quit, but if you stick with me, you will become the best that you can be."

I took another sip from my cup and Kate chose that moment to ask her question, "Your gym? Boxers?"

I looked at her and nodded, "I own Dark Glove Gym and manage a few boxers until they find a manager, although most of them seem to want to stick with me for now."

"Dark Glove Gym? Are you serious? What are you doing here if you own that?"

I chuckled, Dark Glove Gym is one of the few premier gyms in the city, and the membership fee is steep if you are not a registered boxer. Since I refuse to branch out and keep the quality of the service and equipment high and up to date, it is a highly sought-after gym at the moment. I lifted the plate with the sandwich, "You make nice sandwiches."

I knew that she wouldn't believe that, "During my early years of training, Tony's father would always wait outside when I did roadwork, handing me a bottle of water. Ever since I could afford it, I started coming here for coffee and a salad or a sandwich."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Kate-Marie

"Tony's dad sounds like a nice guy. Tony is too, but he just does not like to show it" I explained. Peter gave me a knowing nod.

“When shall I come by to sign the agreement?” I asked being more serious than I intend.

“Tonight, is fine.” Peter suggested

I smiled. “Peter, thank you for this opportunity. I’m really excited about it. Dark Glove Gym has a great reputation and I really need to get back in shape. I know you’ll be a great trainer. I’ll try to be your best student and hardest worker. I need this focus in my life. I’ll see you tonight” I said from my heart.

Bob just happened to walked into the shop at this moment.

“Kate, your coffee sure carries a “punch” at least that was what that robber told me!” Bob joked as he interrupted my conversation with Peter.

“Bob, I’m talking to Peter. I’ll get your order in a moment.” I warned him. He walked over to the ordering que.

“I can start training today… but the doctors told me no twisting of my neck and no boxing” I told Peter. “see you tonight” I said as I walked over the took Bob’s order.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

The rest of the morning went by, as usual, Bob trying his best to find a chink in Kate's armor and the normal in and out customers. The only change came when a police cruiser pulled up outside and the two officers entered. They looked around and then walked up to the counter to order takeaway coffee. Kate-Marie served them and they asked about the sandwiches, looking surprised that it was made fresh and on order.

They paid and left, returning to their cruiser and driving off. It was obvious that they made a courtesy call without it actually being called that, but they will be back for the coffee and maybe even the sandwiches. I left at my usual time and went back to the gym, it was busy, with personal trainers taking customers through their routines, the normal clients going through their own routines, and various music playing in the background.

"Hey boss, you're late."

I turned to my assistant "Not as late as yesterday."

She laughed and handed me a sheaf of papers, "New applications and the quotations you asked for."

"Thank you, I will get these back to you." I went to my office, greeted a few of the people, and sat down, going through my paperwork. A few hours later I took the signed papers back to my assistant, she gave me a long look and handed me a bottle of water, "You seem happy."

I nodded, opening the bottle, "That special contract you set up? She said yes and will be signing it tonight."

She placed her elbows on her desk, "You mean that Peter the Destroyer managed to convince Kate-Marie the Rocket Girl to come out of her enforced retirement to fight again?"

I chuckled, "You know you can only sass me because I don't want to train another assistant."

She gave me a grin, "And here I thought it was my breasts."

I shake my head and smile, "Just let the nighttime staff know that we will have a late guest."

She nodded and I returned to my office to get changed into my own workout clothes as one of my boxers were due to arrive.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Memories

The nighttime staff knew I was coming and let me. As soon as I walked into the gym the memories came flooding back. It was not the sight of the sparring ring, but the smells. As I walked in, I could smell it all. The metal from the weights, the rope from the thick cable workout area, and of course the leather from the heavy bags, and other punching bags. I loved it. I needed it.

I walked deeper into the gym, and people were off in groups working on their skills. An older guy sweating through a weight set and a young woman working her heavy bag. There was even a guy using the jump ropes.

I walked over to someone I thought might be an instructor. He was busy watching his student. So, I coughed politely when I was still several meters away so as not to startle him. He turned to me.

“I’m looking for Peter?” I said.

“Over there” He replied pointing to a closed door. He looked me over like a was a piece of meat as I walked to the door. It was not a sexual thing. He was evaluating my skills as a boxer. I’m sure I did not impress him, as I had lost a lot of my strength and tone. I was dressed in a tight t-shirt, cut off to show my mid-drift, shorts and tennis shoes. At least my legs and waist still show a few muscles.

I knock on the door and heard Peter’s voice telling me to come in. I entered.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

I looked up when Kate-Marie entered, she was looking ready, but I knew that the look would soon disappear and only return after that period have been overcome. I motioned for her to take a seat and pushed the papers over to her, "Top one is our agreement on the surgery and remuneration. You will need recovery time as well as rehab, we will provide the rehab as part of the contract."

I gave her time to read through the two pages and then continued, "Next is the contract, for now, you will pay no gym fees, you will also receive nutritional packages which will consist of food and shakes, if you are not already drinking enough water, you will start to do just that, if you do not have access to clean water, you are to inform me and it will be arranged for you. You will undertake to attend training as will be set out and after an evaluation period, you will participate in training matches. How you perform in those matches, as well as evaluation made by yourself and your trainer, which will be me, will be the measure if you will attempt to renew your boxing license. Once your license has been approved, we will discuss and sign a new contract."

I knew that it all had to be a lot to take in, so I paused and placed a bottle of water next to the papers for her, "Go through the contract, take your time, when you are ready to sign, you can sign it. This is a special contract, had to get it drawn up just for you."

I grinned, "I know this is a lot to take in, there is no rush to get the papers signed. If you want to work out, we can do that, but I will need you to go see my assistant, she's been waiting for you. She will get you a swimsuit, we will start off in the pool. And we are not just going to swim."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Swimming

I was swimming in documents and legal terms. The first party will notify the second party for indemnification… etc. Why couldn’t lawyers just write stuff in plain English? UGH. Bottom line was either you trusted the person you were dealing with or you do not. All the contracts in the world do not really protect you. I signed the documents.

“I don’t need more time to think about it. You put your life on the line for me. I trust you.” I said to Peter as I handed him the signed papers. “I’ll get changed now” I added as walked out of his office and over to his assistant’s office. Her door was open. I stuck my head in and said “Hi, I’m Kate-Marie”

“Hi, I’m Peter’s assistant, April Dawn. Glad to meet you” She introduced herself. I liked her right away. She seemed smart and tough. She was also very good looking.

“Peter said you have a swimsuit for me” I asked

“Yes, please follow me” She confirmed as she stood up and took me over to the women’s locker room. There was a locker already set up for me with my name on it.

“I guess Peter was pretty confident I would sign” I said as I looked at the locker.

“I’m not sure… but I was confident you would sign. FYI, Peter does not come into the women’s locker room too often.” April explained

I laughed. “Good point. Can I ask why you thought I’d sign?” I asked her

“Because you’re a fighter. Both in the sense it is in your blood and you need or want to fight back against injustice. Peter is just helping you do both those things” April explained. “Here is your suit” She handed me a swimsuit.

“Thanks… for the words and the suit” I told her.

“Don’t mention it.” April said with a smile and left the locker room. I changed and headed out to the pool.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

After Kate had signed and left, I signed my parts and got changed, I did tell Kate that I will train with her and I kept my word. I took the documents to April's office so that she can handle the copying and filing of the documents and then walked to the pool. There wasn't anybody there except me and after a few moments, Kate-Marie came into the pool area. I had to admit that April had truly found the perfect fit for Kate, except for her breasts, but then again, I doubt that any comfortable swimsuit would have been able to capture and subdue them if the suit wasn't tailor-cut for her.

"Right, first we warm up, then we swim a few lengths before we do water resistance training. You ready?"

She nodded and I continued, "Now remember, this is a light workout, I want to see the foundation of what I need to build. Give it your all, but don't push yourself too hard. We can do the passing out and throwing up training later."

We started with light stretching, getting the muscles and joints warmed up and loose, when I was satisfied that she was warmed up, I showed her where she could get a swimming cap, goggles and if needed, earplugs. We swam for a few minutes and stopped when I noticed that she was starting to lag behind, I got out and got a bottle of water. I motioned for her to sit on the edge and handed her the water, "Deep breaths and small sips."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Swimming in Guilt

I was breathing heavy and sipping on the water. It was sad how out of shape I was.

“I’m wasted on long distance swimming. We dwarves are natural sprinters! Very dangerous over short distances!” I joked to Peter with a Gimli accent. It was an adjusted a line from one of the Lord of the Ring movies.

Peter just rolled his eyes.

“To be honest, I’m a bit embarrassed. I’m out of shape and have been drinking too much.” I admitted to Peter.

“Drinking what?” He asked

“Vodka” I answered.

“Well, at least you picked a good poison” He commented.

“I admit I was being stupid. I have stopped. I’m not touching another drop while I’m in training.” I told him. He nodded in agreement.

“Mistakes are always forgivable if one has the courage to admit them. Bruce Lee” Peter quoted “Now do some more laps”

I started swimming again.

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

It was clear that her endurance have suffered, but I was also seeing a part of her that I have not known before and which I liked, she had a good sense of humor. That was something that would help her in the days and months to come. I joined her on the return lap and we swam a few more laps before I called a halt, I gave her time to catch her breath again and then we started with cardio workouts or as most people would call it, water aerobics. The fun thing about this is that it gave you resistance and made you sweat, you were growing tired without actually realizing it.

Despite her grumblings and complaints about her fitness level, she was still above average, which gave me a bit of hope for her. When I called a halt she looked like a wet noodle, I moved over and lifted her out of the pool to sit on the edge and gave her a grin, "Are you hating me yet?"

She shook her head and I chuckled as I got out of the pool, "Just give it a few minutes when you have cooled down and try to walk."

I got a towel for each of us and dried off enough, "There are toiletries in your locker, grab a shower, get dressed and I will see you in my office. We are done training for today." I turned and walked back to my office, where I could take a shower and get dressed as well.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Kate-Marie

The warm shower felt good, but I did not want to stay in it too long. Peter would think I was a wimp. I got out and dressed. I was tired and sore. I knew I would be even more sore the next day. However, mentally, I felt amazing. I really needed a physical workout. It helped purge the demons from my mine. I was no longer standing still. I was moving forward and my demon’s HATED that. What they hated, I LOVED. The only thing that would have made tonight even better was if I could have punched something.

I checked myself in the mirror and headed for Peter’s office. He was waiting for me as I entered.

“Shall I sit down?” I asked him

 

[TertiusHuman]

Peter

"That depends on you. Should have taken a longer shower though, it usually feels good after a good workout."

I gave her a slight grin and slid a ledger to her, "Your copies of the agreement and contract, feel free to have them looked at by a legal consultant, I can even give you the number for a few who do pro-bono work."

I leaned back in my chair, resting my arms on the armrests, "Okay, so you already undertook to stop drinking, which is a good thing, but I will also add that one or two drinks every now and then will not hurt, no excess. For now, I want you to not do any training outside of the gym, if you want to go for walks or a jog, that will be fine."

I motioned to a wrapped package on the corner of my desk, "That is a started kit with shakes and supplements, it is not a detox kit, so don't worry that your body will have any adverse reactions. You know what food works best with your body, you've been here before. I want you to give me a list of your dietary needs, this brings us to the other questions. Are you going to continue living where you are staying now and do you have access to fresh or clean water?"