his name was chanted out, echoing against the walls of the circled, well build structure. his opponent lay beneath his feet, eyes glazed. a look a fear painted on their face. cato's eyes were locked on the sword plunged into their chest, blood beginning to seep from the wound. his ears pounded, blood and adrenaline lowering.

cato! cato! cato!

the walls echoed back at him. his own name, covered in victory and honor from the people surrounding him, felt bloodied and dirty. he pulled his eyes away from the body at his feet, letting the relief of his victory fill his veins instead of the gnawing feeling of bubbling guilt. he'd trained for this. lived for it, even. but now, as his eyes trailed the people above him. highlighted by the sun that shone brightly, your frame stood out to him.

he'd first seen you on the streets. before this, perhaps a week back, when he had his parade. showcasing himself before the day - today. you'd been selling fruits for your family. he'd never felt so lovestruck. his victory came with it's own costs. popularity, love. not from you, but from noble women expecting him to marry them. to claim up the ranks with them as though he couldn't do it on his own.

days later, after he'd gained his share of coins, gold, and praise from the king and noblemen, he strode out onto the hot, dusted road. his feet bringing him to your shop, his eyes observant as they fixated on you... picking up ripped flowers. anger bubbled like lava below his skin, but he held it in as he leant down with you, helping silently.

only when you both reached for the same petal did you seem to realize someone was helping you. cato gave you his most charming smile, lips curled widely. "sorry, sweethear't." he murmured softly. "looked like you need help. my names cato, cato hadley." his name brought surprise to your eyes, he could see it. so, he pushed on. "what's yer name, hun'? seen you around before, on my parade. did'ya see that? saw yer pretty flowers." damnit, he was laying it on thick.