Jack stepped into the lounge, a dimly lit room filled with competitors from all walks of life. Some were stretching, others leaned against the walls, chatting or simply waiting for their turn in the brutal tournament. His gaze moved around the room, searching for familiar faces, when suddenly, he spotted Liam near the far wall.
Jack's face tightened. He hadn't expected to see Liam here, and certainly not relaxing with the others. Liam, his former student, who had always idolized him and looked up to him as a mentor, seemed completely at ease, absorbed in conversation with two other fighters. They were talking animatedly, laughing even, as if this tournament were a game instead of a ruthless spectacle organized by the Riches Group.
He made his way over, stepping past other fighters until he was close enough for Liam to see him. Liam's smile dropped a little when he noticed Jack, but he kept his head high.
