With the visit to State University fast approaching, Kendrick threw himself into his training even harder. Coach Ray had him on a strict regimen, pushing him to the edge of his abilities. But no amount of drills or practice could quiet the unease that had settled in his gut.
One evening, as he was wrapping up a solo practice, he noticed Trenton waiting by the gym entrance. Kendrick's pulse quickened, but he walked over, his expression calm.
"Thought we were done here, Trent," he said, trying to keep his tone even.
Trenton's face was unreadable as he crossed his arms. "You really think you're gonna walk away from everything? From everyone?"
Kendrick sighed. "I'm not walking away from everyone. Just the streets. This life. I'm trying to make something real out of myself."
Trenton's jaw tightened. "And you think that's gonna happen without a price?"
Kendrick met his gaze, frustration flaring. "I've already paid the price, Trent. Every day I've fought to survive, to stay out of trouble. You know what that's like. But I'm not gonna let it define me."
Trenton shook his head, his expression filled with a mix of anger and something close to betrayal. "You don't get it, K-Dawg. You don't just get to walk away. Not without consequences."
Kendrick felt a surge of anger. "Then do what you gotta do, Trent. But I'm done with this game."
Trenton's gaze hardened, but he didn't respond. Instead, he turned and walked away, leaving Kendrick standing alone in the empty gym. As the door swung shut behind Trenton, Kendrick knew he'd just made things worse. The lines had been drawn, and he was now in deeper than ever.
With a heavy heart, Kendrick left the gym, his mind racing. He had one chance to escape this life, but the price was proving to be higher than he'd ever imagined.