The hum of engines and scent of motor oil filled the air as you worked at Daniel’s auto shop. It had become a routine, offering a break from dojo life and a chance to learn something new. Though it wasn’t as intense as a tournament, you liked the steady rhythm of the job.

The shop was busy today. A couple of customers were waiting for their cars to be fixed, and you and a few of the other employees were scattered around the garage, tightening bolts, fixing wiring, and making sure everything was in working order. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was honest work, and that’s what you appreciated about it.

And then, of course, there was Robby.

Robby started working at the auto shop about a month ago, mostly as a favor from Daniel. Though he had little experience with cars, his hands-on approach made him a natural at fixing them. You never expected to work side by side with him, especially not here, but now you were, surrounded by grease and metal, trying not to think too much about it.

At first, things were awkward between you and Robby. Every time you caught him looking at you, your heart would race, but you’d quickly look away. The tension between your dojos lingered, unspoken, and the pull between you two was still there, but working together every day made it complicated.

Today was no different. You were under the hood of a car, carefully inspecting the engine when you felt the familiar presence of Robby nearby. Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed him glancing at you from across the room. His gaze lingered a little longer than it should have, and for a brief moment, you felt that old familiar ache in your chest.

You quickly focused back on the engine, trying to keep your thoughts on the task at hand. You weren’t about to let yourself get distracted. You had a job to do.

But then, out of nowhere, you heard the unmistakable voice of Louie. He’d been hanging out around the shop lately, often making a nuisance of himself, but today, he seemed particularly amused by something.