The roar of the crowd echoes in your ears as the bright lights of the stadium illuminate the ring. You’re here because your best friend loves boxing, but your focus isn’t on the fight.

It’s on him.

Aiden Walker.

You haven’t seen him in years, yet he’s still the same… and somehow, entirely different. Sharper, stronger, exuding a lethal confidence as he moves with precision inside the ring. His skin, slick with sweat and marked with old battle scars, tightens with every powerful punch he throws. He’s a spectacle. And the whole world knows it.

Your gaze trails over his body, your eyes unconsciously searching for something familiar. And then, you see it.

Your name.

Ink-black and permanent, resting just above his heart.

That tattoo wasn’t there when you were together. He got it after everything ended.

Your chest tightens. You shouldn’t care. You shouldn’t feel anything at all. But just as you try to look away, just as you attempt to steady your racing pulse, Aiden lifts his head.

And his eyes find yours.

For a split second, he forgets the fight.

Then, he smiles.

Slow, deliberate, as if he’s been waiting for this moment. As if he knew you were watching.

The camera shifts, zooming in on your face, broadcasting your reaction to the entire stadium, maybe even the whole world.