chapter seventeen:
❛ taking everything from me ❜

PLEASE DONT BE A GHOST READER!
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the reason i always say "please don't be a ghost reader" this isnt just because i want votes, i mean i do, but ive been writing on this app for 3 almost 4 years and it helps me stay motivated because that means people are reading my stuff. and unlike other people, they have so many views on their books and i know my writing isnt the best but i love to write and it just helps me stay motivated. and i know i unpublish and republish my chapters and i get thats really annoying

tw: mentions of violence and drug addiction

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As the nurse delivered the good news, Carmen's shoulders visibly relaxed. "Thank God," she whispered with a hand over her heart, her relief mirrored by Johnny, who placed a comforting hand on both Carmen's and Alessia's backs. Miguel looked up, hopeful. "So, does this mean I can keep fighting?" he asked, still holding onto a bit of worry. The nurse nodded with a reassuring smile. "You've been given thirty minutes to recover. But remember, let the pain guide you. If it tells you to sit out, listen. I'll bring an ice pack." Alessia murmured a small "Thank you," watching as the nurse left the room.

Once alone, Alessia's attention shifted back to Miguel with a concerned expression. "How's it feel now?" she asked, her brows knit with worry. Miguel moved over on the stretcher, patting the space beside him with a slight grin. "Not too bad. Just sore." Alessia carefully sat beside him, glancing at him shyly. "I know we don't know each other well, Miguel, but when I saw you get hurt... I was so worried. I still feel guilty for punching you that first week at school," she admitted with a light chuckle. Miguel laughed, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it. I kind of deserved it. I could've approached you differently." His eyes softened, and Alessia gave a small smile, looking down at her hands.

"Eli likes you a lot, you know," Miguel commented, breaking the silence. Alessia looked at him, surprise in her eyes. "I know," she replied softly, but her gaze faltered slightly. Miguel noticed. "But... you still have feelings for Robby, don't you?" he asked gently, and Alessia nodded, unable to hide the lingering emotions.

Just then, Carmen and Johnny returned from talking to the nurse. Carmen's worry remained as she looked at her son. "Miggy, you don't have to keep fighting," she urged, her motherly concern evident. Alessia nodded quickly, echoing Carmen's sentiment. "She's right," she added, and Miguel chuckled at her worrying so much, as if she were his mother too. "Don't worry, if anything feels off, I'll step down," he promised. Carmen studied him closely, before turning to Johnny. "Make sure he's okay," she requested, and Johnny nodded, reassuring her.

"Come on, sweetheart, let's give him some space," Carmen said to Alessia, who gave Miguel one last small smile before hopping off the stretcher. She followed Carmen and Yaya out, heading back to the main area.

As they returned, the announcer's voice boomed, "Robby Keene is ahead two-to-one as he and Demetri Alexopolous battle it out for a trip to the finals!" Alessia joined her fellow Miyagi-Do teammates, her eyes widening as she saw Robby deliver a punch to Demetri's gut, sending him stumbling back. For a moment, her gaze met Robby's, and there was an unspoken tension between them.

"Point. Alexopolous. Score, two-to-two. Go to your senseis," the referee called. Demetri walked back, panting slightly, and Daniel gave a thoughtful nod. "All right," he muttered, trying to encourage Demetri as he stopped at the edge of the mat. "I had a hard time beating him when he was on the good side. Now that he's gone full Sith, I feel like a helpless Jedi youngling," Demetri sighed, eyeing Robby warily as he spoke with Kreese and Silver. Eli cracked a grin. "Well, you're taller. You have the high ground. That's how Obi-Wan beat Anakin," Alessia chimed in, making Demetri smile.

"Just remember the basics. Breathe in, breathe out. You've got this," Daniel encouraged, his tone calm yet firm. Alessia tried to focus on Demetri, but her thoughts drifted, worry lingering over Robby's new, darker demeanor.

The referee's shout jolted her back to the present. "Fight!" he yelled. Robby immediately rushed at Demetri, aiming to kick him in the face, but Demetri raised his arms just in time, blocking the strike. While Robby's leg was still in the air, Demetri attempted a counterattack, aiming to kick Robby's grounded leg, but Robby anticipated it. With a swift jump, he avoided Demetri's strike and aimed another kick at his chest. Demetri, still guarded from the previous kick, managed to block it again.

The crowd held its breath as Demetri stumbled but regained his balance. The referee lifted his hand. "That's a block. No point." Demetri exhaled, relief visible on his face. Both fighters returned to the center, their focus unwavering. The tension between them intensified as they circled one another, both calculating their next move.

Without warning, Demetri leaped, attempting a kick flip toward Robby, but Robby quickly grabbed Demetri's leg, using it to pull him to the ground. Demetri groaned, disoriented, as he looked up to see Robby's foot raised, ready to strike. In a last-ditch effort, Demetri rolled away just in time to avoid the blow. He grabbed Robby's grounded foot, yanking it and causing Robby to fall face-first onto the mat. Demetri scrambled up and went to punch Robby in the stomach, but Robby lifted his leg and kicked Demetri squarely in the gut, knocking the wind out of him.

A buzzer sounded, and Alessia's eyes closed, wincing as Demetri hit the mat. Robby sprang to his feet, unscathed, as the referee walked over, raising his hand high. "Winner! Keene!" The referee declared, and the crowd erupted. Demetri, still catching his breath, managed a respectful bow to his opponent, though the look on his face showed both disappointment and determination.

"Up next, competing from the same dojo, give it up for Alessia Chavez and Sam LaRusso!" Daryl shouted, his voice booming across the arena. Alessia took a deep breath, feeling the intensity of the moment, and turned to Sam, extending her arm for a handshake.

"May the best fighter win," Alessia said with a small smile, her voice calm yet determined.

Sam returned the smile, her eyes gleaming with a hint of competitive spirit as she clasped Alessia's hand. "May the best fighter win," she replied with a smirk.

The two girls climbed onto the mat and walked to the center of the stage, each facing the other. Sam stood with her back to the Miyagi-Do side, while Alessia faced her with Cobra Kai supporters behind her. Alessia could feel eyes on her, and a quick glance back revealed Robby watching her intently. She felt a flutter of nerves and quickly looked away.

"Ignore him," Sam whispered, leaning in slightly, offering reassurance. Alessia swallowed hard and gave a slight nod, trying to focus on the match ahead.

The referee stood between them, looking back and forth before lowering his hand. "Fight!" he shouted, immediately stepping back to give them room.

Alessia wasted no time, charging toward Sam and delivering a swift kick to her stomach. Sam stumbled back, her eyes widening in surprise as she processed the move.

"Point! Chavez!" the referee called out.

Sam looked up, a hint of surprise mingling with respect in her expression. Alessia gave her a playful shrug. "Fair game?" she asked, her voice light but challenging.

Sam smirked, nodding. "Fair game."

They returned to their starting positions, resetting as the referee glanced between them. He raised his hand once more and shouted, "Fight!"

This time, Sam took the offensive, rushing toward Alessia with a flurry of punches. Alessia moved quickly to block each strike, her focus intense. But as Sam's punches pushed her back, Sam suddenly grabbed Alessia's wrist, twisting it and pulling her off balance. Alessia stumbled forward, and Sam used the opening to kick her in the stomach.

"Point! LaRusso!" the referee announced.

Alessia exhaled, readjusting her stance with a smirk, meeting Sam's gaze. They both moved back to the center of the mat, each resetting for the next point. The tension between them was palpable, each determined to win but respecting the other's skill.

"Fight!" the referee yelled once more.

Alessia made the first move, rushing forward as the two girls exchanged a series of punches and blocks, moving back and forth across the mat. Their movements were fluid yet fierce, each girl pushing herself to keep up with the other. Finally, Alessia dropped down, sweeping Sam's feet out from under her. As Sam hit the mat with a thud, Alessia sprang up and delivered a quick kick to Sam's stomach.

"Point! Chavez!" the referee called out.

Alessia huffed, some of her hair falling out of her ponytail as she reached down to offer Sam a hand. Sam took it, giving her a grateful nod as she stood back up, the two returning to their positions.

From the sidelines, Robby's voice cut through the crowd. "Go, Alessia!" he shouted, his tone filled with encouragement. Alessia froze for a moment, her heart skipping a beat as she glanced over her shoulder. She saw Silver pulling Robby aside, reprimanding him, but her heart swelled slightly at his support.

"Fight!" the referee shouted once more, snapping Alessia back to the present.

Sam dashed toward Alessia with a yell, aiming a punch at her chest. Alessia saw the move coming, instinctively grabbing Sam's fist just before it made contact. She was about to counter with a strike to Sam's gut when she felt a sharp twinge in her own stomach.

"Point! LaRusso!" the referee called out.

Sam gave a small, satisfied smile. They were now tied, the final point deciding the match.

Alessia took a series of deep breaths, her senses tuning into the voices around her. She heard Daniel cheering for both of them, even though she knew he was hoping Sam would win. Demetri and Eli's voices rang out too, cheering her on with unrestrained enthusiasm. She swallowed hard, focusing herself.

Realizing she was still at her spot while Sam had already taken her stance at the center, Alessia took slow, deliberate strides to join her opponent. She grounded herself, digging the balls of her feet into the mat, ready for what would be the final round.

"Fight!"

Sam lunged at Alessia, throwing punch after punch. Alessia blocked each strike, finally pushing Sam back hard enough to make her stumble. Seizing the moment, Alessia aimed a kick at Sam's side, but Sam managed to grab her leg. Thinking quickly, Alessia jumped, twisting her body to wrap her other leg around Sam, pulling them both down to the mat. Sam landed on her back with a surprised gasp as Alessia straddled her, quickly steadying herself.

With a determined expression, Alessia raised her fist and struck Sam gently in the stomach.

"Winner! Chavez!" the referee yelled.

Alessia's eyes widened as the crowd erupted in cheers. She stood, a look of disbelief and triumph on her face as the referee lifted her hand in victory. Once her hand was released, Alessia looked down at Sam, extending a hand to help her up.

As soon as Sam was on her feet, she pulled Alessia into a congratulatory hug, both girls grinning.

Daryl's voice echoed through the arena as he approached the center of the stage. "Alessia Chavez, newcomer, is going to the finals!" he announced.

The crowd's applause swelled, and Alessia took a deep breath, savoring the moment as she prepared herself for the next, and possibly final, challenge.

Alessia was just stepping off the mat, heart still pounding from her victory, when she saw a man from the All Valley council approach, clipboard in hand. She recognized him as one of the officials but hadn't had any interaction with him yet.

"Alessia Chavez?" he asked, his voice formal and direct.

She looked up, still catching her breath, and nodded. "Yes?"

"We need you to complete a random drug test," he stated, holding out a form.

Alessia blinked, taken aback. "Um...okay?"

The council member's demeanor remained stern as he handed her a pen to sign, but before she could do so, Daniel LaRusso appeared at her side, his expression tense.

"Excuse me," Daniel interrupted, placing a protective hand on Alessia's shoulder. "Why does she need to do a drug test now, in the middle of the competition?"

The official barely looked at Daniel, his eyes focused on the clipboard. "We were only informed recently that Ms. Chavez here is a recovering addict. Per All Valley regulations, any participant with a history of substance abuse must be tested prior to the tournament."

Daniel crossed his arms, frowning. "Well, that should've been done before she was allowed to compete. Alessia's worked hard to stay clean, and she's been committed to her recovery. Testing her now, right before the finals, is unfair and distracting."

The council member looked unfazed, his expression rigid. "With all due respect, Mr. LaRusso, rules are rules. The oversight was on the dojo's part for not disclosing her history in time."

Alessia shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of both Daniel and the official's words. She glanced up at Daniel, her face a mixture of confusion and embarrassment. "Mr. LaRusso, it's fine," she said quietly. "I can do it."

But Daniel shook his head, turning back to the council member. "No, it's not fine. This is selective enforcement, and I won't have her put on the spot like this. She deserves the same respect as any other competitor." His voice held a steely determination.

The official met Daniel's gaze. "This isn't about respect; it's about safety and fairness. Ms. Chavez should've been tested before now. We're simply following procedure." He looked back at Alessia, still holding out the pen.

Alessia took a deep breath, conflicted but eager to put an end to the tension. "I understand. I'm ready to take it if that's what's needed."

Seeing her calm resolve, Daniel finally nodded, but his expression didn't soften. "Fine, but this should be done quickly and fairly. She's been more than transparent with her history, and I want to make sure she's given a fair chance in this competition."

The official nodded curtly. "Of course. Ms. Chavez, please follow me."

As Alessia walked off, she glanced back at Daniel, who gave her a reassuring nod. She couldn't help but feel a pang of gratitude for his support, even as she prepared herself for yet another test in her journey.

The atmosphere in the arena buzzed with tension, every eye fixed on the jumbotron as the countdown clock ticked down. Daryl's voice boomed, cutting through the murmur of the crowd.

"Cobra Kai and Miyagi-Do are neck-and-neck on the leaderboard. But there's a dark horse... Or should I say a dark bird that still has a chance." He paused, raising his brows with an enthusiastic grin. "Will Eagle Fang Karate stay alive in our dojo race? We're about to find out."

With a flourish, he pointed at the jumbotron behind him, where a countdown appeared, ticking from sixty. "Miguel Diaz has one minute to return to the mat!" he declared, and Alessia felt her stomach drop.

"That's a little extreme," she whispered, worried that Miguel would feel pressured to compete. Her gaze drifted to the doors leading from the hallway, silently willing Miguel to make his own choice. She barely registered the crowd around her, her eyes locked on the entrance.

The seconds slipped by in a strange, silent suspense, her heart pounding louder with each one. Then, as if snapped from her focus by the crowd, she realized they were all counting down.

"Ten... nine... eight..." The chant echoed around the arena.

"Seven... six... five... four..." The sound grew, a drumbeat of intensity.

"Three... two... one!"

A loud buzzer echoed through the stadium, and Alessia exhaled, a wave of relief washing over her as she realized Miguel wasn't going to compete. She felt a mix of pride and sympathy-pride for Miguel for putting himself first, and sympathy for what he must be feeling.

Daryl's voice filled the silence. "Well, it looks like Miguel Diaz is not gonna fight." Alessia looked up, seeing Eli on stage, his shoulders tense as he took a deep breath.

Daryl's face split into a grin as he raised a single finger, pointing at Eli. "Which means that the winner by default is Eli Moskowitz, who advances to the final where he will face Robby Keene!" He turned to point across the arena at Robby, standing with Cobra Kai.

The audience erupted into cheers for the finalists, the energy hitting a fever pitch as Daryl's voice boomed once more. "The finals are up next!"

Alessia watched as the crowd roared, the excitement vibrating in the air. She glanced over to Eli, who looked both relieved and determined, then over at Robby, his focus sharp. The next fight would be intense, and Alessia knew all eyes were on the finalists.

The roar of the crowd was thunderous, Daryl's voice rising above it with an electrifying energy. "Ladies and gentlemen, the wait is finally over. It's finals time!" The cheers intensified, and Alessia couldn't help a shocked laugh, her hand clutching her heart. She turned to Eli, who was grinning at her reaction, taking her other hand and squeezing it for reassurance.

Daryl smiled, nodding as he continued, "Since Cobra Kai scored the most points, they only need to win one match to be crowned Grand Champion. But if Miyagi-Do wins both matches, the title is theirs! Ooh, high drama! Up first, the boys' fight! Good luck to all our fighters! Let's go!" His voice faded as the crowd cheered once more.

Alessia turned to Eli with an encouraging smile. He took a deep breath, rubbing his hands together just as Daniel walked over. "Already took down Kyler. This is my chance to get back at Robby for what he did to me and Les," he said, determined, but Daniel quickly shook his head.

"This fight is not about him. The biggest battle is always the one within. Concentrate, defense, focus, power. You find your balance, and those points will come. All right?" Daniel's steady tone grounded Eli, who nodded in understanding.

"Competitors." The referee's voice called Eli and Robby to center stage. Eli glanced back at Alessia, who gave him a big thumbs-up and a confident grin. "Go out there and kick some ass," she encouraged, and he chuckled, nodding as he turned back to face Robby.

The two boys bowed to the referee, then each other, stepping into their fighting stances. "Ready... and fight!" the referee shouted.

They started with cautious movements, each watching for an opening. Robby made the first aggressive move, aiming a kick at Eli's stomach. Eli blocked, retaliating with his own kick, which Robby caught, forcing Eli off balance. Robby rushed forward, throwing punches, but Eli stayed composed, blocking each one. Robby slipped in a quick punch to Eli's stomach, making Alessia bite her nail nervously.

"Let's go, baby!" Robby yelled, clapping his hands in self-assurance. Eli shook his head and signaled a "T" for timeout. Alessia noticed Silver laughing, his hands raised in a mock victory, and a chill ran through her as she saw Eli's frustration.

"He knows all my moves. He trained at Miyagi-Do way longer than me," Eli said, defeated. Alessia's eyes widened as an idea hit her.

"And you were in Cobra Kai longer than him," she pointed out, and Eli's eyes lit up with realization. "Put him on defense."

The shift in Eli's confidence was immediate as he returned to the mat, squaring off against Robby again. This time, he led with an assertive kick, forcing Robby on the defensive. Alessia caught the moment of surprise in Robby's expression as he struggled to block Eli's relentless attacks.

The back-and-forth continued, each boy matching the other's energy. They clashed, landing blows, blocking kicks, pushing each other to their limits. At one point, Robby managed to send Eli to the floor, and Alessia winced, her hand going to her mouth as she bit her knuckle in suspense. Both fighters scrambled back to their feet, the referee declaring, "No point. Continue."

As they exchanged fierce strikes, the gi tie around Robby's waist loosened. Eli grabbed it, tugging as Robby pulled back, bringing them chest-to-chest. In a swift move, Eli threw Robby over his shoulder, ready to land a final punch-when the buzzer sounded, signaling the end of the match.

Alessia's gaze shot to the jumbotron, the blinking "00:00" freezing everyone in place. Daryl stepped forward, his voice thick with excitement. "Unbelievable! These two amazing competitors have reached their three-minute time limit in a 1-1 tie!" The crowd erupted, but Alessia's jaw dropped as she exchanged shocked glances with Demetri and Sam.

"For the first time since 1985, this championship match will be decided by sudden-death overtime!" Daryl's words reverberated through the arena, Alessia's eyes snapping back to the stage, the weight of the moment pressing down on her.

Demetri groaned beside her, shaking his head. "I hate sudden death in Super Smash Bros., and I hate it here," he muttered.

Alessia managed a small laugh, her eyes glued to the fighters. "Tell me about it." She whispered, her heart pounding as she braced for the final, game-changing showdown.

Eli scanned the audience, his eyes full of determination as he looked over his team. When his gaze landed on Alessia, she flashed him a warm, supportive smile, raising two thumbs up. Eli grinned, returning the thumbs up, his confidence bolstered. He then turned his attention to Robby, who stood ready across from him. They exchanged a respectful bow, and Alessia felt her nerves intensify, blowing out a small, stressed breath as she rubbed her hands together.

"Go to your sensei's," the referee instructed. Eli nodded, turning around to head toward the Miyagi-Do group. As he approached, Daniel's face lit up with pride.

"That was incredible," Daniel said, his voice filled with admiration. Eli smiled, an exhausted but exhilarated laugh escaping him as he looked over at his teammates before turning back to Daniel.

"Any advice on the last point?" Eli asked, catching his breath. Daniel glanced at Alessia, who was standing across the huddle, nodding with an encouraging smile. With a sigh, Daniel looked back at Eli.

"Give him all you've got," Daniel replied firmly. Eli's smile grew wider as he gave a respectful bow.

"Competitors, come back!" the referee's voice called out, preventing Daniel from bowing back. Eli turned on his heel and made his way to the center of the stage, his steps steady and focused. As he neared, Robby paused, then dramatically tore off the top part of his gi. Demetri's eyes went wide as he leaned toward Alessia, his jaw dropped.

"What is happening?" he whispered, bewildered.

Alessia squinted at her ex, shaking her head. "I have no idea," she muttered.

Eli raised an eyebrow, confused, and glanced over at the referee, who simply shrugged, equally baffled. Then, without missing a beat, Eli untied his own gi top, mirroring Robby's stance. Demetri elbowed Alessia with a smirk. "Oh, look, he's doing it too."

But Alessia's eyes were still on Robby, a blush creeping onto her cheeks as she felt a sudden mix of excitement and nerves.

The referee raised his arm, glancing between the two fighters. "Next point wins. Good luck, gentlemen," he announced before bringing his hand down in a firm gesture. "Fight!"

Robby moved first, leaping higher than anyone had seen before. He swung his leg in a high arc, aiming for Eli's face. But Eli was quick, dodging just in time, Robby's foot narrowly missing him. Robby didn't hesitate, following up with another kick, his foot landing hard above Eli's knee as he pushed himself into a backflip. The pressure made Eli stumble backward, his knee buckling slightly, but he caught himself, rolling onto his back.

In one swift motion, Eli placed his hands on the mat and launched himself up, flipping back onto his feet with renewed energy. He ran toward Robby, who was still kneeling from his landing. Eli pounced, wrapping a leg over Robby's shoulder and hooking the other under his arm. But Robby anticipated the move, twisting Eli mid-air so that Eli ended up beneath him on the ground.

As Robby raised his fist, ready to land a punch, Alessia gasped, covering her eyes and hiding her face in Demetri's shoulder. "I can't watch!" she mumbled, her heart racing.

Sam, beside her, bit her knuckle anxiously, her gaze locked onto the match. Robby hesitated for a moment, glancing back at his team. But that split-second distraction was all Eli needed. He twisted, kicking Robby's shoulder and sending him rolling away.

They both quickly got back on their feet, launching into a relentless back-and-forth exchange of punches and kicks. When Eli aimed a kick at Robby's side, Robby caught his leg, raising his elbow and driving it into the inner part of Eli's knee. Eli groaned, stumbling slightly as Robby released him.

"No point!" the referee called out, making Daniel sigh in relief as he nodded to himself. "It's okay. It's okay," he muttered, though his expression showed a hint of worry.

Alessia noticed his uncertainty and quickly turned her attention back to the match. Eli was limping slightly, but he pushed through, charging at Robby with fierce determination. He spun, raising his leg for a kick, but Robby caught his leg again. Eli shifted his weight, wrapping an arm around Robby's shoulders as they both tumbled to the ground. Without missing a beat, Eli slammed his leg down onto Robby's chest with all his remaining strength.

Alessia's jaw dropped as she realized what had just happened. Eli Moskowitz had won.

A joyful laugh burst from her lips, and Sam and Demetri cheered beside her. "Point! Winner!" the referee declared, his voice echoing across the arena. Alessia let out an ecstatic scream, jumping onto the stage and racing toward Eli with the rest of the Miyagi-Do team close behind her.

Eli turned to them, his face beaming with excitement, and opened his arms as Alessia ran into him. They laughed, breathless and exhilarated as he lifted her off the ground and spun her around. When he finally set her down, his hands lingered around her waist. In a sudden burst of emotion, Eli leaned in and kissed her.

Alessia's eyes widened in surprise. Eli had just kissed her, and for a brief second, the world fell away. Her gaze flickered over to Robby, who was storming off in frustration. But she had no time to dwell on it as the rest of their friends swarmed them, pulling them into a celebratory group hug.

"Your boy's champion, Eli Moskowitz!" Daryl announced, stepping toward them with the championship trophy in his hands.

Eli pulled away from the group, his eyes glistening as he took the trophy. He looked down at it, his fingers tracing over the gleaming surface before a triumphant smile spread across his face. Turning back to the audience, he raised the trophy high in the air, his voice ringing out in a victory yell that echoed through the arena.

As the crowd's thunderous applause began to fade, Alessia's heart raced. She could see Eli basking in the glory of his victory, surrounded by his teammates, but her thoughts were consumed by Robby's angry departure. She felt an undeniable pull to follow him, her instincts kicking in as she sprinted out of the gym, the noise of celebration blurring behind her.

Alessia found Robby leaning against the cool wall of the hallway, his arms crossed tightly over his chest, his gi hastily tied around his waist. His expression was a storm of anger and hurt, a stark contrast to the energy of the tournament. As she approached, he looked up, his eyes narrowing.

"How long have you and Eli been together?" he demanded, his voice low and filled with tension.

Alessia felt her stomach drop. "We're not together," she insisted, desperation creeping into her voice. "Eli... Eli kissed me because he was happy. That's all it was."

Robby's lips twisted into a bitter smile. "That's a lie, Alessia. You know it, and so does he. You can't fool me."

She could feel the heat of his anger, and it made her voice tremble. "I don't like him, Robby. I like you. I haven't had the heart to tell Eli. I've known how much he likes me, and I didn't want to hurt him. But we're not dating."

Robby's jaw tightened, and he turned away for a moment, as if trying to regain his composure. "Then you should go to him. You've made your choice."

Alessia's heart sank as he stepped back, and she felt the space between them grow wider. Just then, the hallway door swung open, and Eli appeared, his face lit with concern. "Alessia, please!" he called out, his voice urgent. "If you stay here any longer... I can't keep pretending. I care about you, more than anything."

The way he said it struck a chord deep within her. She turned to him, her eyes wide. "Eli, I need to talk to you."

Eli's expression shifted to one of protective intensity as he stepped closer. "Did he say something to you? Are you okay?"

"No, it's not like that!" Alessia insisted, tugging on Eli's arm, but Eli remained wary, his gaze flicking back to Robby. "Did you say something to her?" he shot at Robby, the tension thickening.

Robby's posture remained defiant, but Alessia felt the weight of the moment press down on her. "Eli, please," she said, trying to diffuse the situation. "Let's just go talk."

But Eli wouldn't budge. His brows knitted together, a mix of frustration and hurt crossing his features. "Did he do something? You don't have to take this from him."

In a surge of protectiveness, Alessia stepped in front of Eli, placing her hand against his chest to keep him from advancing. "Eli... I still like Robby."

The revelation hung in the air, shocking Eli into silence. His face fell, the hurt plain in his eyes. "What?" he managed, disbelief coloring his voice.

"I know you like me," Alessia admitted, her voice trembling. "And I've tried to act oblivious, to pretend it didn't matter, but I can't do it anymore. I'm sorry."

Eli took a step back, his expression transforming into one of sorrow. "So, what? You're choosing him over me?" he asked, his voice low, as if the very idea pained him.

Alessia felt tears welling up in her eyes, each blink fighting back the emotion. "It's not like that," she said, her voice breaking. "I didn't want to hurt either of you."

Without another word, Eli turned away, shoulders slumping, his footsteps echoing down the hallway. Each step felt like a dagger to Alessia's heart, and she watched him go, feeling a hollow emptiness inside.

Turning back to Robby, she searched his face, hoping to find some understanding, but he seemed distant, a wall erected between them. The anger still flickered in his eyes, but now it was tinged with confusion. "What do you want, Alessia?" he asked, frustration lacing his words.

She opened her mouth, struggling to find the right words. "I just... I wanted to tell you how I feel. I thought you should know."

Robby shook his head, disappointment etched into his features. "Why would you tell me this now? After everything? I don't understand you."

Alessia felt a mixture of shame and frustration rising within her. "I didn't plan this! I never wanted to hurt you or Eli. I've just been trying to figure things out."

"Maybe you should have thought of that before," he shot back, his voice rising, hurt spilling out. "You had your chance, and now you're trying to play both sides."

Tears brimmed in Alessia's eyes as she struggled to keep her composure. "I'm not trying to play games, Robby. I just wish things were simpler."

With a final glance at him, she turned and walked away, her heart heavy with the weight of her choices and the lost moments she couldn't take back. Robby remained standing there, uncertainty shadowing his features, feeling the distance grow between them.

As she left, Alessia took one last look back, her heart aching as she stepped into the uncertain future ahead, unsure of where her feelings would lead her next.

Alessia took a deep breath, blowing air from her lips to calm her nerves. The cacophony of the crowd swelled around her, a thunderous roar that sent adrenaline coursing through her veins. She hopped slightly on the balls of her feet, her two Dutch braids dancing with her movements, and she could feel the anticipation of the audience electrifying the air. This was it-the last competition, the culmination of everything she had worked for. Her opponent, Tory, stood confidently across the mat, a fierce glint in her eyes. Alessia could feel the weight of the moment settling heavily on her shoulders. Daniel had told her not to think about the stakes, but every thought centered on the grim reality: if she lost, both Miyagi-Do and Eagle Fang would be forced to shut down.

"Ladies and gentlemen, what better way to cap off this exciting exhibition of karate than with a final match for the ages?" Daryl announced, striding confidently down the center of the stage, his voice booming. The crowd erupted in cheers, a wave of sound washing over her and making her heart race. Daryl turned to face the members of Cobra Kai, pointing emphatically at Tory. "Representing Cobra Kai, the Queen Cobra herself, Tory Nichols! Coached by her senseis, John Kreese and Terry Silver!"

The audience roared, their cheers wrapping around Tory like a protective cloak, a smug smile spreading across her face as she took in the energy. Daryl shifted his attention to Miyagi-Do, extending an arm toward Alessia. "And representing Miyagi-Do Karate, newcomer, Alessia Chavez!"

A surge of adrenaline rushed through Alessia as the crowd erupted in even louder cheers for her than they had for Tory. She took another deep breath, the warmth of support wrapping around her like a comforting embrace. Daryl laughed, reveling in the audience's reaction, allowing the noise to swell before continuing. "Coached by her sensei, two-time All Valley champion Daniel LaRusso, who I've just been informed will be joined by Eagle Fang's sensei, Sensei Johnny Lawrence!"

Her heart soared at the sight of Johnny walking toward her, a proud smile lighting up his face. Alessia felt a wave of reassurance wash over her as Daniel rushed onto the stage to speak with Daryl.

"Oh! I stand corrected!" Daryl exclaimed, glancing at Daniel, who had whispered something into his ear. Alessia turned her gaze to Daryl, curiosity sparking within her. As Daniel walked back toward her and Johnny, Daryl continued, "Fellow two-time All Valley champion, Sensei Johnny Lawrence!"

A wide grin broke out on Alessia's face, and she mouthed a silent "thank you" to Daniel, who nodded back with warmth. As the crowd continued to cheer, she felt a small flicker of hope ignite within her. She turned back to the center stage, nervous energy making her bounce on her feet again.

"Competitors!" Daryl called, summoning Alessia and Tory to the center. Alessia walked forward, her heart racing as she met Tory and the referee in the middle of the mat.

"Ladies, good luck. Face this way," the referee instructed, and the two girls turned to him, bowing in respect, their faces serious and determined. "Now face each other."

They turned to each other, their eyes locking in an intense, unyielding stare that sent chills down Alessia's spine. The atmosphere thickened, the crowd silent with anticipation as they bowed once more, the tension crackling like electricity in the air. Alessia could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on her as she settled into her fighting stance, muscles coiled and ready.

"Ready?" the referee asked, glancing between them. Alessia nodded, a deep breath filling her lungs as she focused her mind, silencing the noise and feeling the energy build within her. She observed Tory, who was bouncing lightly on her feet, eyes narrowed, waiting for any hint of movement.

"And fight!" the referee shouted, the words ringing in Alessia's ears like a starting gun.

In an instant, Alessia sprang into action, her body moving with a fluidity that felt almost instinctual. She unleashed a flurry of quick punches, each jab sharp and precise, testing Tory's defenses. Tory retaliated with rapid kicks, her movements sharp and aggressive, but Alessia was on point, dodging and weaving expertly, landing a few solid hits that made the crowd erupt in cheers. The exhilaration coursed through her; she could feel the energy of the audience feeding her determination.

With every exchange, Alessia's confidence grew. She could see Tory beginning to falter under the pressure, her movements becoming slightly less controlled. Then, with a well-timed feint, Alessia executed a decisive kick that landed cleanly, earning her the first point. The crowd erupted into cheers, their enthusiasm echoing off the walls of the venue and washing over her like a warm wave.

"Point, Chavez!"

But just as Alessia felt the high of her victory, her heart dropped when she noticed a counsel member of the All Valley board approach the referee, whispering urgently. Alessia's brow furrowed, anxiety creeping back in as she watched their serious expressions.

The referee cleared his throat, a grave look on his face. "I'm sorry, but we have a decision to make. Default winner: Tory Nichols."

"What?!" Alessia shouted, disbelief flooding her system as the cheers of the crowd faded into a haunting silence. The audience watched, stunned, as her senseis, Daniel and Johnny, looked on in shock, their expressions mirroring her own bewilderment.

The referee continued, his voice steady but somber. "Alessia, we received the results of your drug test, and it indicates you tested positive for banned substances."

"Bullshit!" Alessia cried, her voice rising in protest, panic and frustration twisting in her gut. "I've been sober for three years! There must be some mistake!"

Before she could voice her outrage further, she saw the Cobra Kai students rush toward Tory, surrounding her with congratulations and back pats, their smug faces illuminated by victory. The sight made Alessia's heart sink. Feeling the tears prick at the corners of her eyes, she took a step back, her vision blurring as the gravity of the situation crashed down on her like a tidal wave.

"Alessia, wait!" Daniel called out, but her thoughts were a chaotic whirlwind, and she couldn't bear to hear more. The tears spilled over as she turned and ran, the crowd's murmur of confusion fading behind her as she dashed through the hallway.

Alessia felt the sting of betrayal cut through her; every supportive voice, every cheer, felt like a mockery now. She ran through the maze of hallways, seeking refuge from the crushing weight of disappointment. The walls felt as though they were closing in on her, the memories of her training, her hopes, and the exhilaration of the match being overshadowed by a sense of loss.

As she sprinted out into the fresh air, the world around her blurred. Her heart raced not just from the exertion but from the overwhelming pain of feeling misunderstood, of fighting for something she believed in, only to have it stripped away in an instant. The sobs racked her body as she found a quiet corner, the bright lights of the venue behind her flickering like distant stars, a cruel reminder of her dreams slipping through her fingers.

In that moment, Alessia felt utterly alone, the cheers of the crowd replaced by a haunting silence that echoed her defeat. She pressed her back against the cool wall, her breath coming in ragged gasps as the weight of it all crashed down upon her, tears flowing freely as she grappled with the reality of what had just happened.

ASH SPEAKS!

fuck terry silver.

season 5 here we go...publishing the vol 3 chapter tomorrow

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