(The Present...)
Arriving in Chesher early that Monday morning, I headed straight to my apartment, witnessing its gradual transformation into my sanctuary. The calming scent of the pine tree air freshener filled the space, creating a serene ambience. In this quiet haven, I found solace with just my thoughts, free from the presence of others.
I sank into the welcoming embrace of the bed. I had longed for the comfort it offered, especially after enduring bus seats and hospital benches for the past few days.
"This requires time to heal properly, Eddie," I recalled Mum saying as she inspected the cut above my eye.
"I'm aware, ma'am," I responded, scrolling through my phone with my head resting on her thigh.
"A headbutt?" she commented, shifting her hand from my forehead to the tangle of my hair, gently massaging my scalp.
I rolled my eyes. "I know, right."
"You don't have to keep doing this, you know..." she said, examining the envelope I placed in her hands.
"Mum, come on, we've discussed this."
"I know, I know. But this job provides good pay, and I genuinely enjoy it—the shifts, the people, everything."
"It's still a job, though. I mean, when was the last time you took some time off, maybe traveled, or did something you wanted to do just for yourself? You can't work forever 'ma" I straightened myself. "I'll be off soon. I try to visit now and then."
"Please keep me infah the loop, ma. I can't be town-hopping like I'm a grasshopper or something."
"Grasshopping?" she remarked. "What's that all about?" she added, managing a smile.
"You don't even want to know," I said, bursting out laughing as I remembered where I had heard it from.
My alarm went off, it was 6 am. After several seconds, I rose from the bed. Sleep eluded me as my mind swirled with thoughts—Frank, Mom, and school.
I lazily slammed my hand on the clock. I took off my clothes and put on my tracksuit, the sun was already coming up.
With a lazy gesture, I slapped the clock. I stripped off my clothes and put on my tracksuit, the sun was already rising.
The run turned out to be a refreshing one, possibly the most relaxing I had experienced in a while. After taking a moment to regain my breath, I paused by the chain link fence that divided my path from the football field.
Looking at the time, I saw it was 7 am. Looking back up, my eyes were not playing tricks on me—the football team was already deeply engaged in their drills. They must have started very early, I thought.
I straightened up, performed a series of jumps in place, and then resumed my jog home. As soon as I reached the apartment, I took a bath and began my walk to school. Just as I got to the bottom of the staircase, someone called out my name "Mr. Miller!"
"You really should secure your mailbox, you know."
It was Patrick, his tenacious aura was unmistakable.
"Ah, Yes Patrick indeed, I should make an effort to secure my mailbox," I responded nodding as I turned back to collect the envelopes from him—two of them. He had made a very good point, one I would have otherwise been unaware of.
"Thank you, Patrick, for picking up my mail from my mailbox, which was meant for me to privately access," I stated, hoping the sarcasm in my voice would be evident.
"You're welcome, sir," he said, apparently oblivious.
I scratched my head chuckling nervously, "Uh, Patrick, I know you have access to the boxes and all, but could you maybe not do that."
"Oh, I've only done it to hand it over to you," he replied, innocently with his hands now in the air.
"I know, Patrick, I know. Just maybe don't do it next time, alright? It's a bit intrusive"
"Oh, ok. You got it then."
I saluted, "My man!"
I ripped open the initial envelope as I continued my journey to school; it turned out to be a letter.
Dear Miller,
Congratulations on your recent victory! Your performance in the ring was truly outstanding, and we at Panat's Boxing Organization are delighted to announce you as our new Champion. This achievement brings both great responsibilities and opportunities, with the primary obligation being the defense of your title.
As the newly crowned Champion, your participation in title defense matches is expected. These matches play a crucial role in upholding your status and ensuring the undisputed nature of your championship. We recognize that these commitments demand substantial time and effort, but we have full confidence in your ability to manage them effectively.
We kindly request that you respond to this letter within two weeks, indicating your intentions regarding the defense of your title. Failure to do so within this timeframe may lead to the forfeiture of your championship status.
Should you choose to defend your title, please be aware of the per-fight fee of $15,000. This fee is essential to cover the various costs associated with organizing high-stakes events, encompassing match production, event promotion, and compensation for referees and other officials involved.
We eagerly anticipate your prompt response.
Best Regards,
Felix Sinesterra PR Officer, Panat's Boxing Organization.
"Pssh, Yo! Fifteen thousand. That's something, bruh," I exclaimed, more amused than anything else.
I burst into laughter as I continued to talk to myself. "Yo, hold on let me see something bruh." another glance at the letter confirmed what I had seen.
"Yo, Yo, Yo, the man dem really said fifteen thousand!" I came to a full halt. "C'mon, bruh, fifteen thousand? Mans eating noodles for breakfast and that. Talk to me about fifteen thousand." I pocketed the letter in the back of my trousers.
"Shii, hold up a minute now, just let me know, I'll send that belt back ASAP, cuz. You already know I ain't about that life."
"Wow," someone exclaimed from behind me.
"I mean, the first time was cute, but this is just magnificent." It was Kelly. She had parked her car just behind me and stepped out, seemingly intrigued by what was happening. Glancing around, I noticed a few other students watching.
"Kelly! Oh, hello," I greeted nervously, rubbing the back of my neck.
She stretched her hands out, motioning with her fingers. "Let me see."
I handed her the initial letter, my cheeks felt like they were burning, and my head weighed as heavy as three moons.
A car honked two times, the window was slowly dropping. "Kelly! I mean nice car but let's keep it off the road. Ok?" It was James he was heading in the wrong direction, away from school.
Kelly's expression shifted from surprise to a dismissive charm. She redirected her attention to the letter, completely disregarding him.
He attempted an impersonation of a girl, and it was cringe-worthy. "Oh, how was practice today, James?" "Oh, fine, dear, thanks for asking."
Without bothering to turn around, she waved him away, hiding a smile.
Shaking his head, James rolled up the window. "I love you too," he announced as he drove off.
"Sorry about that," she said picking up her gaze., she returned the letter to me without making any comments. I figured she probably hadn't read it.
"I should probably get off the road" she added. "C'mon let's go."
I opened the second envelope to discover another letter inside. After disposing of the remnants of the envelope in a nearby bin, I proceeded to get into her car.
"So, how are you finding...Uhm, Chesher."
"It's been alright Mrs. President" I replied.
She turned around, wearing a very beautiful smile. She returned her focus to the road just as quickly.
"I try my best you know, to keep things in order." she continued.
She glanced at my hand. "Who did they propose?"
"What?"
"....for the title defense." she continued.
"Oh," I smiled nervously recalling my childish rant from before.
"Uhm let me see." I opened up the second letter.
Dear Miller,
We are excited to extend an invitation for a title defense match in a month. You have two potential opponents to choose from:
Arthur Kovalevsky - For a purse of $26,000, with fight night bonuses up to $35,000.
Michael Bryant - For a purse of $37,000, with fight night bonuses up to $60,000.
Both fighters present exciting challenges and we believe that either match could provide a thrilling spectacle for our fans.
Please confirm your availability and choice of opponent at your earliest convenience. We look forward to seeing you in the ring again.
Felix Sinesterra PR Officer, Panat's Boxing Organization.
"Hmm, both great matchups." she started. "What do you think?"
"I'm thinking of taking a break from boxing right now."
She nodded, her eyes focused on the road. "That's understandable. Taking a break can be a good choice, especially considering everything."
"Yeah, I mean, it's been non-stop, and I think I could use some time to rest and think about what's next."
"That sounds like a wise decision. It's crucial to prioritize your well-being, I'm taking some time off myself, I don't think I'll ever return if I'm being honest," she remarked, her tone supportive.
We continued our journey, and she glanced at me, her expression warm. "You know, it's okay not to have everything figured out right away. Take your time, and when you're ready, you can decide the next steps."
"Thanks, Kelly. I appreciate that."
As we approached the school, she parked the car. "Well, here we are. If you ever need someone to talk to or any advice, feel free to reach out."
"I will, thanks again. See you around, Kelly."