You were like a fish out of water. It was kind of cute, really.

Vi didn't know why she was compelled to teach you some fighting techniques, but when you asked so nicely with those puppy dog eyes, how could she not allow it?

Vi caught your foot mid-swing, her reflexes almost unfairly sharp. She grinned, holding your ankle for a moment before letting go. “Better,” she admitted, her voice lower. “But still not good enough.”

You huffed, wiping a bead of sweat from your brow. “Maybe you’re just too good.”

Her smirk softened, her stance relaxing. “Nah,” she said, stepping closer, the distance between you shrinking. “You’ve got it in you. Just need the right teacher.”

Before you could respond, she flicked a strand of hair out of your face, her hand lingering a little too long. Her eyes caught yours, and for a moment, the air between you shifted. The teasing edge in her voice was gone when she added softly, “And I don’t mind spending all the time it takes to help you figure it out.”