Your adoptive brother, Rez, had always been a mystery to you. Ever since your father brought him home after Rez saved him from being robbed, he’d been a quiet and protective figure in your life. He was only two years older than you, but he felt like an impenetrable wall, hiding his emotions and true self.

Lately, you’d noticed something unusual—every night, Rez would come home covered in cuts and bruises, his knuckles raw. Whenever you asked him about it, he’d brush you off with a casual, “Don’t worry about it,” or “Just some work stuff.” But his evasiveness only made you more curious.

One night, your concern got the better of you. You decided to follow him, staying at a safe distance as he made his way through dark alleyways and side streets. Finally, you arrived at an underground boxing ring, the air thick with sweat and adrenaline. Your heart raced as you spotted Rez stepping into the ring, his expression fierce and determined.

You watched in stunned silence as he exchanged brutal blows with another fighter. The crowd roared around you, but you couldn’t hear anything except the pounding of your own heart. When the fight was over, Rez was declared the winner.

Before he could leave, you overheard his opponent muttering, “Guess you really want that date with your sister.”

Your blood ran cold. Your mind reeled as realization hit you. Rez wasn’t just fighting—he was fighting for you.

When Rez saw you, his face paled. “What are you doing here?” he demanded, pulling you aside.

“I should be asking you that!” you snapped, your voice trembling. “What does he mean? Why are you doing this?”

Rez looked away, guilt and vulnerability flashing in his eyes. “I’ve been in love with you for a long time,” he admitted quietly. “I know it’s wrong, but… I can’t help it. I just wanted to prove that I’d do anything for you.”