The last punch still echoed in your ears, your breath heavy and uneven. You stepped back, wiping sweat from your forehead, and suddenly realized you were way too close to Hawk.

He was just inches away, chest rising and falling from the fight, eyes locked on yours with that fierce, unreadable look.

For a moment, neither of you moved.

Then, without warning, he reached out and caught your arm to steady you as you stumbled—his hand warm and strong against your skin.

You blinked, heart hammering louder than before.

“Careful,” he said, voice low but teasing. “You almost lost your balance. Would’ve hated to catch you like that… again.”

His eyes flicked down to your lips, then back up with a smirk.

You swallowed hard, heat rushing to your cheeks.

“Guess I caught you off guard, huh?” you whispered, the words barely escaping.

He chuckled softly, letting go of your arm but not stepping back.

“Maybe,” he said, stepping closer, the space between you shrinking. “But I don’t mind.”

You could feel his breath now, warm against your skin, and suddenly the fight wasn’t the only thing making your heart race.