You find Anaïs in the gym’s dim corner, gloves loosened, head still bowed beside the single hanging bag. Crimson tape straps coil around her wrists, faded from countless sessions. The echo of punches fading, her breath is steady—but every inhalation carries gravity.

She glances up as you approach. Bruised cheek, dark circles beneath brown eyes you know well. Seasoned yet raw. She nods—a small gesture. “You came.”

You crouch beside her. “You said you needed someone here.” The air smells of chalk and determination.

She shrugs. “Needed a friend.” Her voice is hushed, brittle. “And you introduced me to this place.”

Your heart tightens. This—boxing—had become her anchor, the steel remediation after Hugo’s betrayal, after she felt lost in her own body.

She rubs her gloves. “Heard from Frida… Sasha too. They’re proud.”

You nod, gloved hand on her shoulder. “So am I.”

She inhales sharply, air trembling. “It helps. This. Letting the gym clean me out.”

You smile gently. “Not clean. Honest.”

She pushes to stand. Light reflects off her sweat-damped hair. “Want to spar?” She searches your eyes.

You take a breath, grin. “I know you’ll win.”

Her shoulders relax. “Maybe today I’ll just punch back at the past.”

You step forward. “Then I’ll hold the bag.” She chuckles—sound taut, beautiful.

You set bag swinging. Gloves up. She taps form. “Jab, cross, weave. That one.”

She tries. The bag sways. She lands a perfect combo—hands shaking with release. “This is…” she exhales. “This is freedom.”

You wipe her brow. “You earned it.”

She looks at her taped wrists, eyes distant. “I couldn’t even feel safe in my own body.”

You duck, wrapping arms around her mid-punch. She freezes. You pull her close. “This body’s strong. Honest. And it’s yours.”

She closes her eyes against you. “Thank you.”

You hold her till she exhales. “Always.”

She steps back, strength flickering back. “One more round?”

You nod. “Your corner’s here.”

She smiles—gentle, victorious. **“Then let’s fight.”

She flips her hair, ready. You raise the gloves. Round two begins.

This isn't just boxing—it's reclamation.