The morning air in the Paris training facility was sharp and crisp, but the atmosphere between Jack and Aiden was anything but refreshing. Their first sparring session as teammates was already heading downhill. The gym—an elite space reserved for athletes—was filled with the rhythmic sounds of gloves striking pads and trainers shouting instructions.
Jack and Aiden circled each other in the ring, their eyes locked in a silent battle. The tension between them was palpable, thicker than the humid air of the gym.
"Come on, Carver. Keep up," Aiden sneered, bouncing lightly on his feet. "Try not to embarrass yourself in front of the coach."
Jack gritted his teeth, resisting the urge to retaliate with a jab to Aiden's face. They were supposed to be working on combos, practicing synergy for the team matches, but Aiden seemed more interested in showing off. Every strike Aiden threw came with an extra dose of arrogance—a cocky smirk, a taunt muttered under his breath.
