Episode 24: Ethan's Revenge
Jaden sat on the locker room bench, unwrapping his wrist tape. The trial had been brutal, but he had proven himself. Ethan tried to outshine him, but Jaden made sure everyone knew who was better.
But Ethan Hale? He wasn't the type to take a loss quietly.
Jaden knew the moment he embarrassed Ethan on the field, it wouldn't be over.
And he was right.
Because as he pulled his jersey over his head, Ethan walked in—straight toward him.
Old Rivalries, New Threats
Ethan tossed his bag onto the bench, arms crossed. "Still playing your same little tricks, huh?"
Jaden barely glanced up. "Still losing to them, huh?"
A few guys nearby whistled. Leo chuckled. "Damn. This is gonna be good."
Ethan's jaw clenched. "I'm not the same kid you beat in high school."
Jaden smirked. "You're right." He leaned back. "That kid was actually a little faster."
Laughter erupted in the locker room.
Ethan took a step forward, voice lowering. "Enjoy your little moment, Carter. It won't last."
Jaden's smirk faded.
Because in Ethan's eyes, he saw something dangerous.
This wasn't just high school drama anymore.
This was Iron Stride. And Ethan wasn't here just to compete.
He was here to ruin Jaden.
Jaden exhaled, shaking his head. Fine. Let him try.
An Unexpected Distraction
Later that evening, Jaden walked through the halls, stretching his sore muscles.
He had one goal—get back to his room, call Abby, and sleep.
But, as usual, Iron Stride had other plans.
Because just as he turned the corner—he nearly crashed into Ava Sinclair.
She smirked. "Careful, Carter. You might start thinking I'm following you."
Jaden sighed. "You're always in my way, Sinclair."
Ava tilted her head, stepping closer. Too close.
"Maybe you should start wondering why," she murmured.
Jaden clenched his jaw. He wasn't playing this game.
He stepped around her, but she reached out, grabbing his wrist.
Jaden tensed.
Ava's voice was softer now. "You ever think about what's waiting for you after this?"
Jaden narrowed his eyes. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Ava's smirk faded slightly. "You fight so hard to win here. But what happens after Iron Stride? When you make it to the top? You think loyalty is gonna save you out there?"
Jaden stared at her.
She stepped closer. "Guys like you? You break."
Jaden exhaled. "Not me."
Ava smiled. "We'll see."
Then she turned and walked away.
Jaden ran a hand over his face. He needed to get out of his own head.
He grabbed his phone. One unread message.
Abby: Call me?
Jaden sighed, heading to his dorm.
Because right now, she was the only thing keeping him sane.