chapter seventy-three:
❛ the end ❜

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Clementine sat on the thin wrestling mat in the warm-up area, the distant roar of the crowd echoing through the concrete walls. The fluorescent lights overhead buzzed softly, casting a pale glow over the clusters of fighters scattered around her. Some were shadowboxing, others practicing their katas, but Clementine wasn't doing any of that. Instead, she was trying to steady her breathing, her hands pressed flat against the mat as she stretched forward.

The tension in her muscles was unbearable. Every nerve felt like it was pulled taut, and no amount of stretching seemed to help. She closed her eyes, trying to drown out the noise, but it only made the swarm of anxious thoughts louder. What if I mess up? What if I lose? What if I embarrass myself in front of everyone?

She could hear the announcer's voice booming from the main arena. It made her stomach twist. The anticipation was the worst part - the waiting. Knowing that soon, she'd step out onto that mat with every eye on her.

"Breathe, Clem," she whispered to herself, but even her own voice sounded shaky.

"Hey."

The familiar voice cut through the noise, gentle and steady. Before she could turn around, Clementine felt strong arms wrap around her from behind. Robby's warmth pressed against her back, his chin resting lightly on her shoulder. He smelled faintly of the outdoors - like the clean, crisp air that had followed him inside. It was grounding, and without thinking, she leaned into him.

"You're doing that thing," Robby murmured, his voice low. "The thing where you overthink everything until you convince yourself you're doomed."

Clementine snorted softly, though her chest still felt tight. "Maybe I am doomed."

"Nope." Robby shifted so he was kneeling beside her, his arms never fully leaving her waist. "Not even close." He cupped her face, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "You've worked your ass off to get here. You're ready."

She wanted to believe him. She really did. But the nagging doubt was relentless. "What if I'm not? What if I freeze out there?" Her voice cracked, and her fingers twisted in the hem of her gi pants.

"Then you take a breath and keep going," Robby said simply, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "That's what you do, Clem. You don't give up. You fight through it."

Clementine swallowed hard, the lump in her throat refusing to budge. She hated how vulnerable she felt, like every fear she'd tried to push down was clawing its way to the surface. "It's just... everyone's gonna be watching. What if I embarrass myself?"

"Then I'll be right there, cheering you on," Robby said, his eyes never leaving hers. "But you're not going to embarrass yourself. You're going to get out there and show everyone how strong you are." He smiled softly, tucking a loose curl behind her ear. "Because you are strong, Clem. Stronger than you even realize."

She blinked, her eyes stinging. "You're just saying that because you're my boyfriend."

"I'm saying it because it's true," Robby countered, his voice unwavering. "I've seen how hard you've trained. How much you've pushed yourself. You earned this." He tilted his head slightly, his expression growing even softer. "And no matter what happens out there, I'm proud of you."

That was what broke her. The tears that had been threatening to fall finally slipped free, trailing down her cheeks. But they weren't just tears of fear - they were a release. Every ounce of pressure she'd been carrying seemed to ease just a little.

Robby didn't hesitate. He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as she buried her face against his shoulder. "You've got this," he whispered, his hand tracing soothing circles along her back. "And I'll be right there when it's over."

Clementine let out a shaky laugh, clutching the fabric of his gi. "You better be."

"Always," he murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Now, how about we go show everyone just how badass my girlfriend is?"

Clementine sniffled, a smile tugging at her lips despite everything. "Only if you promise to brag about me after."

"Oh, I'm already planning on it," Robby teased, leaning back just enough to look her in the eyes. His thumb brushed gently over her cheek, wiping away the remnants of her tears. "You ready?"

She wasn't sure if she'd ever feel completely ready. But with Robby by her side, it didn't seem so impossible.

"Yeah," she said softly, nodding. "I'm ready."

And this time, she almost believed it.

The air inside the arena was thick with anticipation. The roar of the crowd echoed off the walls, but to Clementine, it was all a distant hum. She stood at the edge of the mat, the glaring overhead lights reflecting off the polished floor. Her heart pounded so loudly she could feel it in her fingertips.

Robby's hand found hers, his fingers threading through hers in a reassuring squeeze. "You got this," he murmured, his voice low but steady. "We got this."

Clementine nodded, though the nerves twisted like knots in her stomach. The stakes were high - this match was the culmination of everything they had trained for. Months of sweat, bruises, and relentless practice. But more than that, it was a testament to their resilience. No Cobra Kai. No Miyagi-Do. Just them.

She glanced at Robby, taking in the determined set of his jaw and the fire in his eyes. His presence was grounding. No matter what happened, they were in this together.

The referee signaled for them to step forward. Clementine adjusted her gi, the fabric rough against her skin. Robby gave her one last encouraging nod before they both bowed respectfully. Across from them, their opponents mirrored the motion - two fierce competitors from another dojo, their focus unwavering.

The crowd hushed in anticipation.

"Fighters ready?" the referee called.

Clementine and Robby both nodded, their muscles coiled with anticipation.

"Begin!"

The instant the word left the referee's lips, the mat became a flurry of movement. Their opponents came in fast, aggressive and unrelenting. Clementine barely sidestepped a swift kick aimed at her midsection, the air whistling past her. Her pulse quickened as she shifted into a defensive stance, every instinct firing at once.

Robby wasn't far, already engaging his opponent with sharp, calculated movements. His footwork was flawless, dodging each attack with ease. Clementine caught the faint grin on his face - he thrived under pressure, and she couldn't deny how impressive he looked in action.

But there was no time to admire. Her opponent lunged again, a series of rapid strikes that Clementine deflected, her body moving on pure instinct. She stayed light on her feet, remembering Robby's words during training. Stay calm. Stay in control.

"Nice block!" Robby shouted from across the mat, his encouragement fueling her.

She exhaled sharply, grounding herself. And then, she fought back.

Clementine's counterattacks were swift and precise. A well-aimed kick to her opponent's side sent them stumbling, but they recovered quickly. The match continued like a carefully choreographed dance, both sides relentless in their pursuit of victory. Every blow, every dodge, every shift in momentum had the crowd on edge.

Robby, equally fierce, was holding his own. His opponent was strong, but Robby was faster, his movements flowing like water. A perfectly executed sweep sent his opponent crashing to the mat, and the crowd erupted.

But Clementine had no time to celebrate. Her opponent was still coming, their determination unwavering. Sweat dripped down her brow as she locked eyes with them, refusing to back down.

"Focus, Clem!" Robby's voice cut through the noise, grounding her.

With one final burst of energy, Clementine surged forward. She feinted left, drawing her opponent off-balance, and then struck with a spinning back kick that connected cleanly. The impact echoed through the arena, and her opponent stumbled, unable to recover.

The whistle blew.

"Point awarded!" the referee called.

Clementine's chest heaved, but a spark of exhilaration surged through her veins. She barely had a moment to catch her breath before Robby's opponent tried to regain control. But Robby was ready. He anticipated the move, ducking under a punch and retaliating with a sharp kick to the chest. His opponent hit the mat hard, and the referee raised his hand.

"Match over!"

The words echoed in Clementine's ears. For a second, the realization didn't sink in. But then, the crowd erupted into cheers. Robby's face lit up, his grin wide and victorious.

"We did it!" he shouted, his voice hoarse from the fight.

Before she could react, Robby was already closing the distance. He rushed toward her, his arms wrapping tightly around her waist. Clementine laughed, the sound bubbling out uncontrollably as he spun her around, lifting her feet clear off the ground.

"You did it, Clem!" he exclaimed, his voice full of pride.

"We did it," she corrected breathlessly, her hands gripping his shoulders for balance. The arena blurred around her, but all she could see was Robby - his grin, the joy in his eyes, the warmth radiating from him.

Without thinking, he pulled her even closer. "I'm so proud of you," he murmured.

And then, before she could say anything else, he kissed her.

The noise of the crowd faded into nothing as his lips met hers. It wasn't planned - just pure instinct and overflowing emotion. Clementine melted into him, her fingers tangling in his hair as the adrenaline and joy of their victory surged between them.

The crowd erupted again, cheering even louder, but neither of them cared. The only thing that mattered was this moment.

When they finally pulled away, Robby's forehead rested against hers, both of them breathless and grinning like idiots.

"Guess we gave them a show," he teased.

Clementine laughed, her heart still racing. "Yeah, well... I think we earned it."

"You think?" Robby grinned, brushing a stray curl from her face. "I know we did."

And as they stood together on that mat, the cheers of the crowd still ringing in their ears, Clementine knew that no matter what came next, they would face it - together.

The night air in Hong Kong was warm, with a gentle breeze that swept through the towering skyscrapers, rustling the edge of the balcony curtains. The view stretched endlessly - city lights twinkling like fallen stars, the harbor glistening under the moonlight. From this high up, the noise of the streets below was nothing but a distant hum.

Clementine leaned against the balcony railing, her elbows propped as she gazed out at the vast skyline. The city was so alive, yet up here, it felt like their own little world. She sighed softly, contentment settling over her like a blanket.

Behind her, Robby stepped out from the sliding glass door, two mugs of tea in hand. The steam curled lazily into the night air. He handed her one, the warmth spreading through her palms as she accepted it.

"Thanks," Clementine murmured, flashing him a small smile. She took a sip, the earthy taste of the tea calming her nerves.

Robby settled beside her, leaning against the railing, his shoulder brushing hers. "Not bad for our first time in Hong Kong, huh?"

Clementine snorted, a grin tugging at the corner of her lips. "Not bad? Robby, we're literally standing on a balcony overlooking the city like we're in some cheesy rom-com. I think we're officially in 'dream trip' territory."

He chuckled, his dimples deepening. "Okay, okay. I'll admit it - it's pretty amazing. Definitely beats the view from my apartment back in the Valley."

"Yeah," Clementine agreed softly, her eyes tracing the distant neon signs and the faint glow of boats drifting across the harbor. "Feels kinda surreal. I mean, a year ago, we were just trying to keep our heads above water. And now we're..." She gestured out at the city. "Here."

Robby nodded, his expression thoughtful. "We've come a long way."

Clementine turned toward him, her heart swelling. "Remember when we were just two kids sneaking into the country club pool to escape the heat?" She laughed, shaking her head. "Now we're out here, traveling the world. Not bad for a couple of troublemakers."

"Hey," Robby feigned offense, though the twinkle in his eyes gave him away. "I wasn't the one who suggested breaking into the club, Miss Bad Influence."

"Oh, please." Clementine smirked. "You didn't exactly protest. You practically cannonballed in."

He chuckled, setting his mug down on the ledge. "Okay, fair. But I don't regret it. Honestly, I don't regret any of it."

His voice softened at the last part, the weight of his words settling between them. Clementine's teasing expression faded, replaced with something gentler. She reached out, her fingers brushing his.

"Me neither," she murmured.

For a moment, they stood like that - the soft hum of the city below them, the occasional distant honk of a car horn, and the rhythmic lapping of the water in the harbor. It was peaceful.

"Though," Clementine broke the silence, her lips quirking into a grin. "I think you've earned a new title."

"Oh yeah?" Robby raised a brow, clearly intrigued. "And what's that?"

She turned to face him fully, mischief dancing in her eyes. "Karate Boyfriend of the Year."

Robby blinked before bursting into laughter. "Karate Boyfriend of the Year? That's a thing now?"

"It is now," she declared, unable to suppress her giggle. "I mean, you've saved me from getting tackled in a tournament, fought your way through Cobra Kai psychos, and let's not forget the whole 'supportive boyfriend in Hong Kong' bit. Pretty award-worthy stuff."

Robby grinned, his cheeks tinged with warmth. "Well, I guess I'll graciously accept the title. But only if you promise to be my 'Karate Girlfriend of the Year.'"

"Oh, obviously," Clementine said, pretending to adjust an invisible sash. "I humbly accept."

They both laughed, the lightness of the moment easing the lingering weight of the past. Robby reached over, tucking a loose curl behind Clementine's ear, his touch lingering.

"I'm proud of us, Clem," he said softly. "For everything we've been through. And everything we're still figuring out."

Clementine's heart swelled. "Me too. And I'm proud of you, Robby. You're not just the Karate Boyfriend of the Year. You're... you."

Robby's gaze softened, and without a word, he leaned in. Their lips met in a slow, tender kiss - one filled with gratitude, love, and the shared promise of whatever came next.

When they pulled away, Clementine's eyes gleamed mischievously. "But seriously," she teased, "you should probably make a speech. The Karate Boyfriend of the Year award deserves one."

Robby rolled his eyes, but the grin never left his face. "I'd like to thank my amazing girlfriend, first and foremost," he began, his tone mockingly dramatic. "For being my partner in crime, my toughest sparring opponent, and the only person who can eat more ice cream than me."

"Thank you, thank you," Clementine laughed, pretending to bow. "It's a skill."

"And," Robby continued, wrapping an arm around her waist, "for always believing in me, even when I didn't believe in myself."

Clementine's playful smile softened. She rested her head on his shoulder, the night air cool against her skin. They stood there in comfortable silence, the glow of the city illuminating the endless possibilities ahead.

And for once, neither of them was afraid of what the future held.

The atmosphere at the after-party was electric. The music pumped from every corner of the room, blending with the chatter of voices in a multitude of languages. Bright lights flashed in rhythm with the beat, casting colorful shadows on the walls as competitors from all over the world mingled, celebrated, and shared stories of their incredible journeys.

Clementine stood near the center of the dance floor, her eyes shining with excitement as she laughed, holding her phone high to capture the moment. Robby was right beside her, grinning ear to ear as he spun her around, his hands firm on her waist as they moved to the rhythm of the music. They were inseparable, completely caught up in the joy of the night.

"You better not be recording me looking like an idiot," Robby teased, raising an eyebrow playfully as he took her hand and pulled her into another spin.

Clementine held her phone up, the screen capturing the twirls and the flash of their smiles. "You don't look like an idiot," she said, her voice light and carefree. "You look like the guy I get to call my boyfriend, and that's pretty cool."

Robby grinned at her, his heart swelling at her words. "Well, in that case, I guess I should make sure I'm extra impressive for the camera." He wiggled his eyebrows and pulled her closer, lifting her in a playful dip.

Clementine gasped, laughing in surprise. "Robby!" she protested, but the smile on her face said it all. "You're a showoff."

"Maybe," he said with a wink, setting her back on her feet. "But you love it."

"I do," Clementine admitted, laughing and giving him a playful shove. "I can't help it. You've got that whole 'karate boyfriend' charm."

"Karate Boyfriend of the Year," he corrected with a grin, holding his arm out in a mock salute.

The two of them danced, completely lost in the music and in each other. The room was full of people, but it felt like it was just them, moving to the beat, laughing, teasing, and creating memories that would last forever. Clementine spun in his arms again, her laughter like music to his ears. The sound of their joy mixed with the upbeat rhythm of the music.

They didn't care that they were in the middle of a room full of world-class karate competitors from all over the globe. They didn't care about the expectations, the pressure, or the fact that tomorrow they'd have to face the reality of the competition results. Tonight was for them, for the way they fit together effortlessly, for the way their laughter and shared moments made everything else fade away.

Clementine paused for a moment, pulling her phone from her pocket and pointing it toward them. "Smile," she said, her voice teasing but soft.

Robby leaned in, his cheek brushing against hers as he threw an arm around her waist. He was still laughing, but as he looked at her through the camera lens, his smile softened. "What are you doing with that thing?" he asked.

"I'm capturing the moment," Clementine said with a grin, snapping a few pictures. "You know, so when we're old and gray, we can look back and remember how awesome we were."

"Old and gray?" Robby scoffed. "We're still young. Way too young to be talking about gray hair."

"But think about it," Clementine mused as she lowered the phone, her gaze fixed on Robby. "One day we'll forget some of the little details, and we'll only have the photos and videos to remind us of everything we did."

"Well, when we look back," Robby said, his tone more serious, "we'll have these memories - the photos, the videos, the stories we'll tell. We might forget the exact words we said, but the feeling will always stay."

Clementine's heart fluttered at his words. There was a tenderness in his voice that she hadn't expected, and it made the moment feel even more special. She reached up and cupped his cheek, her thumb brushing lightly over his skin. "Yeah, you're right. Even when we're old and forgetting things, we'll still have these moments, won't we?"

Robby's eyes softened, and for a brief second, the world around them seemed to fall away. "Always," he promised quietly, his lips curving into a smile. "We'll have this. And whatever comes after."

Clementine smiled back, feeling the warmth of his words settle deep in her chest. "I love you," she whispered, the words slipping out so naturally, so easily, as if they'd always been there, waiting to be said.

Robby's expression softened, his smile growing even wider. "I love you too," he replied, his voice low and sincere. "And I'm never going to forget this. No matter what."

The moment was perfect, and as the music continued to play around them, they danced without a care in the world. Time seemed to stretch on, the night unfolding into something magical, filled with laughter, dancing, and the knowledge that this was only the beginning.

The night continued with new faces and more memories. They mingled with competitors from all over the world, sharing stories, laughing about the most ridiculous parts of the competition, and just enjoying each other's company. Clementine kept taking pictures, each frame capturing moments that would soon become part of their story.

At one point, the DJ played a slower song, and Robby pulled her close, his hands resting on her hips as they swayed together. The noise of the crowd faded into the background, and it was just the two of them.

"Think we'll ever be this carefree again?" Clementine asked, her voice soft as she laid her head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

"Yeah," Robby said, his hand gently brushing her hair back from her face. "As long as we're together, I know we will."

The world outside the dance floor could wait. In that moment, they had everything they needed - each other, the night, and the memories they were making together.

The living room at Moon's house was softly glowing, bathed in the warm, comforting light of string lights that had been carefully draped across the walls and ceiling. Twinkling stars created a magical atmosphere, dancing around the room as they flickered to life. The soft hum of music played in the background, filling the space with gentle tones that seemed to perfectly match the bittersweet mood of the evening.

The small group of friends had gathered together to celebrate Eli, who was about to leave for college at Caltech. The night was meant to be a joyous occasion - a celebration of everything Eli had accomplished and how much he meant to each of them - but there was a heavy feeling in the air. No one was ready to say goodbye, but they knew they had to.

Alison stood in the middle of the room, holding a glass of soda, her eyes scanning the faces of her friends. The soft glow of the string lights reflected in her eyes, but there was a lingering sadness that dulled their usual sparkle. Eli was about to leave, and despite all the excitement for his future, she wasn't sure she was ready to let him go.

Moon, who was sitting next to Alison, noticed the look on her face and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Hey, it's going to be okay," she said softly, offering a reassuring smile. "We've all been through change before. This is just part of it."

Alison nodded, but the lump in her throat made it hard to speak. She had been trying to keep it together all night, for Eli's sake, but it was getting harder. This wasn't just a goodbye to Eli; it was a reminder that things were changing, and nothing would ever be the same again.

Eli, who had been talking to Tyler across the room, finally noticed Alison's mood and walked over to her. He was holding a small envelope, which he handed to her with a grin. "Hey, you're gonna make me cry if you keep looking like that," he said lightly, trying to ease the tension with his usual dry humor.

Alison forced a small smile and took the envelope, though her hands were trembling slightly. "I'm trying not to," she said, laughing softly. "I'm just... I'm not good with goodbyes."

Eli smiled and nodded, his own eyes becoming a little more serious. "Yeah, me neither." He glanced around the room, his gaze lingering on the decorations that had been put up for the party, the care and effort that everyone had poured into this night. His friends had all pitched in, helping make this goodbye feel a little less final. "But I know it's not goodbye forever. It's just... see you later, right?"

Alison's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Yeah. See you later." She managed a faint smile, then quickly wiped away a tear that escaped.

Eli saw this and immediately pulled her into a tight hug. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her close as he rested his chin on the top of her head. "I know it's hard," he murmured. "But I promise you, I'm not going anywhere forever. I'll visit. I'll make sure we stay in touch."

She let out a small, shaky breath and nodded into his chest, clinging to him for a few more moments before pulling back slightly to look at him. "I know, Eli. I just wish it didn't feel like you were slipping away from me."

Eli smiled at her, brushing her hair back from her face. "I'm not slipping away, Alison. Just... stretching out, you know? This is a good thing. You've got your own life here, and I've got mine in California. But that doesn't mean we can't still make time for each other. You know I'll always come back here whenever I can."

Alison nodded again, her chest tight with emotion. "I know." Her voice was small, the reality of the situation sinking in.

"Hey, enough of that," Eli said, trying to keep the mood light. "I didn't come here to make you cry. I came here to celebrate."

Alison forced a smile, still holding onto the envelope he'd handed her. "You're right. You're right. It's a celebration."

At that moment, Tyler called for everyone to gather in the center of the room. "Alright, Eli! Time for your toast!"

Eli chuckled lightly and turned to face the group. His eyes swept over his friends - Moon, Tyler, Jackson, Tory, and Alison, all of them standing in a loose circle around him, smiling warmly. He could see how hard it was for them to let him go, just as it was for him to leave.

"I don't know what to say," Eli began, his voice a little quieter now, but steady. "I don't even know where to start." He paused, glancing down at the envelope Alison was still holding. He gave her a small smile before turning back to the group.

"Let's see..." He took a breath and continued, the words coming more easily now. "I think, out of everyone here, I'm the luckiest. I don't deserve this, but I've been surrounded by so many amazing people - especially you guys. You've all had my back since day one, and even when I've been an idiot, you didn't give up on me." His gaze lingered on Alison, and she felt her heart flutter at the sincerity in his eyes.

"I can't say thank you enough," he went on, his voice catching slightly. "You've all changed my life in ways you'll never understand, but Alison..." He looked at her, his expression softening. "You've made me a better person. You've pushed me to be more than I thought I could be. And I don't know what I'd do without you." He paused for a moment, his emotions welling up as he tried to hold it together.

Alison's eyes filled with tears again, but this time, they were happy tears. She wiped them away quickly, not wanting to make things more emotional than they already were.

Eli cleared his throat and smiled, trying to lighten the mood. "So... I'm leaving for college in a few days. And I'm excited, I really am, but I don't want to make it sound like I'm just gonna forget about all of you. I'm not. And I'll be back as much as I can. I mean, what's college without visiting home, right?"

Everyone laughed a little at that, and the tension in the room eased slightly.

Alison stepped forward, taking his hand in hers. "We'll visit you too," she said with a soft, knowing smile. "And don't worry, we'll send you tons of ridiculous pictures of us doing... random things. Just to keep you in the loop."

"Please," Eli said with a grin, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Don't send me pictures of you guys doing ridiculous things without me. I'll feel left out."

The group laughed again, and just for a moment, it felt like things weren't changing at all. But they knew it was inevitable.

"Okay, enough of this emotional stuff," Eli said, stepping back and raising his glass. "To all of you... thank you. For being part of my life. For being the people who made me feel like I belong. You've all been a part of who I am, and I'm carrying you with me into this next chapter. Here's to the memories we've made and the ones still to come."

Everyone clinked their glasses together, and the room filled with cheers. Eli's toast hung in the air, a promise of love, friendship, and the belief that no matter where life took them, they would always have each other.

As the night wore on, Alison couldn't help but feel a mix of sadness and pride. Eli was leaving, but he was leaving for a future he deserved - a future full of opportunities. And though she'd miss him more than she could put into words, she knew this wasn't the end. It was just the beginning of a new chapter.

And as he pulled her into another hug, pressing his lips to the top of her head, she whispered, "I'll always be here for you. No matter where you go."

Eli's arms tightened around her. "I know you will," he said, his voice full of sincerity. "And I'll always come back to you. No matter what."

The morning was still hazy, a soft, almost melancholic light spilling through the windows of the car as Alison drove down the quiet roads towards the airport. The sky was a muted shade of gray, as if the world itself was holding its breath for the inevitable departure that was about to unfold. Eli sat beside her, his hand resting on his lap, his fingers occasionally brushing against hers.

The silence between them wasn't uncomfortable - in fact, it felt like the kind of silence that only close friends or lovers could share, the kind that didn't need words to say everything that was already understood. It was the kind of silence that said they had been through so much together, and despite the sadness of the moment, they had made it this far, together.

Alison glanced at Eli, her heart tightening in her chest. He was looking out of the window, his gaze distant, his jaw clenched as if he were trying to hold it together, just as she was. She knew this wasn't easy for him either. The excitement of going to college at Caltech, the chance to start fresh, had been tempered with the weight of the goodbyes he had to say, and the ones he'd never truly be able to leave behind.

It was early, too early for the kind of goodbyes they were facing, and the air felt thick with the knowledge that everything was about to change.

Eli turned his head slightly and met her gaze, his lips quirking up in the faintest of smiles. "You know," he said, breaking the silence, "I was thinking... maybe I could sneak into your luggage."

Alison blinked, not sure whether she was supposed to laugh or cry. But Eli's mischievous grin, the one that always seemed to make her heart race, had its usual effect. She couldn't help it. She let out a soft laugh, even though she felt the sting of tears behind her eyes.

"You'd never fit," she teased, her voice cracking just slightly. "I don't think you're getting past security that easily."

Eli shrugged, his grin widening. "I'm resourceful. You'd be surprised what I can fit into a suitcase." He gave her a wink. "You know, you could always leave a little room for me. Just in case you want some company."

Alison's heart felt both full and broken at once. "I wish I could," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "But you've got your whole future ahead of you, Eli. You don't need to be hiding in my suitcase to make sure I don't forget about you."

His smile softened, and he reached over, brushing his thumb across the back of her hand in a comforting gesture. "I don't need you to keep me in a suitcase," he said, his voice low and steady. "I just need you to remember that I'll always be with you, no matter where I go."

Alison felt a lump form in her throat. She could feel the truth of his words, but the reality of it was still hard to accept. "I don't know how I'm supposed to live without you around," she confessed softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's hard, Eli. It's just... so hard."

Eli squeezed her hand, his thumb now gently caressing her skin. "I get it," he said. "I wish I didn't have to leave, but we both know this is what's best for me. It's what I've been working toward, you know? And I know it's going to be hard for you, too. But that doesn't mean it's goodbye forever. It's just... see you later."

Alison's heart squeezed, and she took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "Yeah, see you later." The words felt both comforting and heartbreaking, like a promise and a loss all at once.

She didn't know how long they sat there in silence after that, just holding hands, letting the weight of everything sink in. She couldn't bring herself to turn off the engine, even though she knew they were running out of time. The airport was just a few minutes away, and once they got there, the goodbye would become real. This moment, this quiet time together, was the last bit of normalcy they'd have before life started to shift in a way neither of them could control.

Finally, Eli let go of her hand for a moment and shifted in his seat, his eyes searching for something to say, anything to lighten the mood. "I'll visit, you know. I'm not disappearing. I'm just... I'm just going to get really, really good at science or whatever it is they do at Caltech, and then maybe I'll build something so cool that you'll have to come see me."

Alison turned to look at him, her eyes glistening with tears, and despite everything, she smiled. "I'm holding you to that. I'll be the one who'll come visit and see your 'cool science thing' when it's ready. And when you do, we'll have to go get pizza - no excuses. And I'll make sure to bring a suitcase just in case you need somewhere to hide."

Eli chuckled softly, but the laughter didn't last long before he turned to face her completely. "I'm gonna miss you so much," he said, his voice a little quieter, more serious now.

Alison's chest tightened again, her breath shaky as she fought to keep the tears at bay. "I'm gonna miss you, too," she whispered, her voice breaking. "It feels like I can't even breathe when I think about it."

"You'll be fine," Eli said, his voice warm and steady. He reached over and gently cupped her face, his thumb brushing her cheek in a way that made her close her eyes for a moment, just to hold on to the feeling of him being there. "You'll be okay, I promise. You've got so much ahead of you, too."

Alison opened her eyes and met his gaze. It was both a look of reassurance and a goodbye.

"I love you," she said quietly, her voice full of emotion.

Eli smiled, a small but genuine smile. "I love you, too."

The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. There was so much more to say, so much more they would never be able to put into words. And yet, in that moment, it felt like they had said it all.

Alison leaned forward, closing the small distance between them, her lips meeting his in a soft, lingering kiss. It was tender and bittersweet, a kiss that held all the weight of their feelings, of the love they had for each other and the sadness of knowing that the next few months, maybe even years, would be spent apart.

When they finally pulled away, neither of them moved right away. Eli rested his forehead against hers, his breath warm against her skin. "I'm gonna be okay," he murmured, though it was clear it was as much for himself as it was for her. "And you are, too."

Alison nodded, her eyes brimming with tears. "I know. But it's still hard."

"I know," Eli agreed softly. "But we'll make it work. I'm not going anywhere."

Finally, the moment stretched on until there was nothing left to say. With a heavy heart, Alison wiped her eyes and started the car again, the engine humming to life, signaling the end of their last few minutes together.

They drove in silence for the last stretch, the weight of everything heavy on both of their shoulders, neither of them ready to let go but both knowing it was time.

When they pulled up to the airport, Eli turned to her one last time, squeezing her hand tightly. "I'll see you soon," he said, his voice full of determination.

"I'll hold you to that," Alison replied, her voice thick with emotion.

With one final kiss, she stepped out of the car and watched as Eli made his way toward the terminal. As he disappeared through the doors, Alison felt the finality of the moment, but also a sense of hope. It wasn't goodbye forever. It was just the start of something new.

And no matter where he went, he would always carry her with him.

Clementine stepped through the door of her apartment, dragging her suitcase behind her as she took in the familiar sights of the place she hadn't seen in what felt like forever. The smell of coffee lingered in the air, and she couldn't help but smile. Home. It felt so surreal to be back after everything that had happened. She'd been so caught up in the chaos of the competition in Hong Kong and everything that had unfolded there. But now, standing in her own apartment, it almost felt like she had never left.

"Alison?" Clementine called, her voice breaking through the quiet.

Moments later, Alison appeared from around the corner, her face lighting up at the sight of her best friend. She looked just as she always had, her wild hair slightly messy, a hoodie hanging off her frame, but there was a warmth in her smile that made Clementine's chest tighten with affection.

"Clem!" Alison exclaimed, rushing forward.

Without hesitation, Clementine dropped her suitcase, and the two embraced, holding each other tightly. It had been too long. In that moment, all the stress and exhaustion from the trip melted away. She could feel Alison's arms around her, and everything else - the crazy competition, the danger, the tension of Hong Kong - just faded.

"You're back!" Alison pulled away slightly, holding Clementine at arm's length, her eyes scanning her friend. "You look... like you've been through a war. What happened? How was Hong Kong?"

Clementine laughed softly, rubbing the back of her neck. "It was incredible. The competition was fierce, but Robby and I made it through." Her smile faded slightly as she continued, "We even won."

Alison's eyes widened, and she let out an excited gasp. "Wait, you guys won?!" She grabbed Clementine's hands, shaking them slightly. "That's amazing! I knew you would! You're like... the karate queen of the world now or something!"

Clementine rolled her eyes playfully. "Not quite the queen, but yeah, we pulled it off."

Alison bounced on her heels. "I'm so proud of you! But wait - what happened? How did you win? You have to tell me everything, all the details!"

Clementine took a deep breath, a somber look crossing her face as she sat down on the couch. Alison followed her, sitting beside her, instantly picking up on the change in her demeanor.

"Okay, so here's the part I didn't tell you about," Clementine began, her voice quieter now, weighed down by the memory of what had happened on their way to Hong Kong.

Alison leaned forward, her brow furrowed in concern. "What happened?"

Clementine hesitated for a moment before speaking. "On the way to Hong Kong, Robby and I took a boat. It was supposed to be a regular trip, just to get us to the venue. But..." She paused, her fingers nervously fiddling with the edge of her sleeve. "The boat was hijacked."

Alison's eyes widened. "Hijacked? By who?"

Clementine's face darkened. "People who worked for Terry Silver."

Alison sat back, her hand flying to her mouth in disbelief. "Terry Silver? I thought he was... dead?"

Clementine let out a soft, bitter laugh. "Yeah, that's what we thought too. But it turns out he faked his death, and those people... they came after us. They were trying to stop the tournament, stop everything. I don't know what they wanted, but it was bad. It was like something out of a movie, except this was real."

Alison's voice was barely above a whisper as she processed what Clementine was saying. "So you and Robby were... in danger?"

Clementine nodded slowly. "Yeah. We were on that boat, trying to get to Hong Kong, and then suddenly, these guys showed up. They had guns, they were yelling at the crew, at us. Robby and I tried to fight back, but... it was so out of our control."

Her mind raced back to that moment - the gunshots, the shouting, the fear that had washed over her. She'd never felt more helpless, more vulnerable, than she had in that moment. But Robby had kept it together, like he always did, protecting her with that same fierce determination she loved so much. They had managed to subdue the hijackers, but not without cost.

Alison reached out, her hand resting gently on Clementine's. "Clem, that sounds terrifying. I can't believe you went through that. But... you're okay now, right? You're here, safe."

Clementine smiled weakly. "Yeah, we're okay. We got to Hong Kong, finished the competition, and we won. It all worked out." Her eyes dropped to her hands, still lingering on Alison's. "But there's more. Terry Silver... he's dead now. For real this time."

Alison blinked, her confusion evident. "What do you mean? How? What happened?"

Clementine sighed, trying to collect her thoughts. "I don't know the full story. We were busy with the competition, so we didn't get all the details, but apparently, when we got to Hong Kong, they found his body. Turns out, he didn't just fake his death to mess with people - he was trying to control everything, manipulate the tournament, stop anyone from getting too close to Cobra Kai's plans. But in the end, he... I guess he really did die. They found him. And this time, there's no coming back."

Alison was silent for a long moment, processing everything. She squeezed Clementine's hand tighter, as if to reassure her that she was there. "I can't believe it. Terry Silver's gone for good? That's... crazy."

Clementine nodded. "Yeah, it feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, honestly. But at the same time, I don't know. It's just so weird. I've been dealing with that guy's shadow for so long, and now... it's just gone. But we're here, and Robby and I are okay. We've got each other. We made it."

Alison smiled warmly, giving her hand one more squeeze. "You're so strong, Clementine. And you did it. You both did. You won, and you survived all that craziness. I'm so proud of you."

Clementine leaned her head on Alison's shoulder, taking in a deep breath. "Thanks, Al. It means the world to me."

Alison rested her cheek on top of Clementine's head, a comforting silence settling between them. "So now what? You're back, you're safe. What comes next?"

Clementine lifted her head and looked at Alison, her expression soft but determined. "Now, we figure out what to do with all this. Robby and I, we made it through all of that, and I think it's time we focus on what really matters. It's not about the tournament anymore. It's about us, and... I guess just moving forward."

Alison smiled. "I'm so glad you're back. And I'm glad you and Robby are okay. Whatever comes next, I know you're both ready for it."

Clementine grinned. "Yeah, we're ready."

And with that, the two of them sat in the silence of their shared understanding, knowing that no matter what came next, they would face it together.

Jackson stood outside the dojo, the cool evening air brushing against his face as he fiddled with something small in his hand. His eyes darted to the door, the anticipation of the surprise making his heart race just a little faster. He had something special for Tory, something simple but meaningful. After everything she had been through, he wanted to show her that he saw her strength, all the battles she'd fought - both in and out of the dojo.

He had been thinking about it for days. Finally, he had picked up the perfect gift - a tiny charm necklace with a fist symbol on it. It wasn't flashy or extravagant, but it was a symbol of power, of resilience, of the strength he admired so much in her. He couldn't wait to see her reaction.

As he pushed open the door to the dojo, his boots thudded softly against the floor, and he spotted Tory in the middle of the mat, stretching with her usual focus. She looked like she belonged there, like the dojo was her second home, the place where she always seemed to thrive, no matter what. Jackson's heart swelled with pride at the sight of her.

"Tory!" he called out, his voice full of energy and warmth.

She turned, her expression immediately lighting up when she saw him. "Hey, Jackson! What's up?"

Jackson grinned, walking over to her with the gift hidden behind his back. "Well, I got somethin' for ya. Thought I'd surprise ya with somethin' small, but somethin' meaningful."

Tory raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile on her lips. "Oh? You're actually giving me a gift, huh? I'm shocked."

Jackson chuckled, stepping closer. "Hey, don't act like you don't deserve it. You've been through a whole lot lately, and I think it's time you got a little reminder of just how damn strong you are."

Her smile softened, her eyes searching his face. "That's sweet of you, Jackson. But you didn't have to-"

"Yeah, well," Jackson cut in, "I wanted to. So here." He pulled out the small, delicate box and opened it, revealing the charm necklace.

Tory's breath caught in her throat as she took in the tiny fist symbol, a perfect, miniature representation of everything she had fought for. "Jackson... this is beautiful," she said, her voice a little softer than usual.

He grinned, scratching the back of his neck. "I figured, ya know, you've been through a lotta stuff and you've come out on top every time. I just wanted somethin' to remind you of that. You're tough as nails, and I'm real proud of you."

Tory blinked, feeling a warmth spread through her chest at his words. It wasn't often she let herself truly feel the weight of the support people gave her. But Jackson-he had a way of making her feel like she was seen for who she really was, and that made all the difference.

"Thank you, Jackson. This means a lot," she said softly, reaching up to touch the charm. She looked at him, her expression more vulnerable than he was used to seeing. "I don't always feel like I'm doing enough, you know? Like I'm still figuring stuff out, still fighting. But having you here, it helps."

He smiled, that same confident, charming grin of his lighting up his face. "Well, I'm always gonna be here, darlin'. And besides, you don't gotta be perfect. You've come a hell of a long way already. Don't forget that."

Tory laughed, shaking her head. "I swear, Jackson, sometimes you sound like an old country song." She smiled, her eyes sparkling. "But thanks. Really."

Jackson gave a mock bow, his voice dripping with exaggerated Southern charm. "What can I say? I've got a way with words, don't I?"

Tory rolled her eyes playfully, but there was a softness in her gaze that Jackson appreciated. "Yeah, yeah. I'll give you that one."

Jackson grinned wider. "Now that I got you all sentimental, how about we throw down for a bit? You know, get that energy out?"

Tory raised an eyebrow. "You want to spar with me?"

Jackson shrugged, an exaggerated pout forming on his lips. "I mean, I can't think of anyone better to practice with. And I figured since I got you a gift and all, I could be your official 'new training dummy.'" He winked at her. "I'm sure I'll make a fine one."

Tory smirked, crossing her arms over her chest. "You? My training dummy? You sure about that?"

"Oh, I'm sure. I'm a real quick learner," he teased, flexing his arms. "You might not wanna hurt me too bad though. Wouldn't want to mess up that pretty face."

Tory laughed, her tough exterior momentarily slipping as she raised her guard. "Alright, bring it on, cowboy."

They moved to the mat, the sound of their feet shuffling and their playful banter filling the room. Jackson kept it light, teasing her every time she landed a hit or dodged one of his attempts. But despite the joking, there was a serious undertone to their movements, a shared respect for one another's abilities. Every jab, every block, was a reminder that they were partners in this fight - whatever this fight might be.

Jackson feigned a dramatic stumble after one of her well-placed kicks, falling onto the mat with a loud, exaggerated grunt. "Oof! You got me good there, T."

She laughed, stepping back to give him space to get up. "You're the one who wanted to be my 'training dummy.'"

"Yeah, yeah, I know," Jackson said, getting back to his feet, brushing himself off. "But just remember, darlin', I'm the best training dummy around. You ain't gonna find one better than me."

Tory rolled her eyes but couldn't stop the smile tugging at her lips. "I'm sure you're the best at everything, huh?"

"Well, I'm workin' on it," he said, pulling her into a playful headlock. "But right now, I'm just workin' on not gettin' my butt kicked."

Tory squirmed a bit, laughing. "You're not gonna win this one, Jackson."

"Oh, I know," he grinned, releasing her. "But I don't mind losin' to you."

Tory paused, looking at him with a softness in her eyes. "Thanks, Jackson. For everything. You know, not just today."

He smiled back, all teasing and charm but with something more underneath. "Anytime, T. Anytime."

The warm glow of the sunset painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, the sound of waves crashing gently on the shore mixing with the distant calls of seagulls. Jackson and Tory sat on the sand, side by side, their feet buried in the cool, soft grains, watching the horizon turn into a kaleidoscope of colors. The air was salty and fresh, with a breeze tousling Tory's hair as she leaned back on her hands, savoring the tranquility of the moment.

Jackson, ever the talker, was the first to break the peaceful silence. "Ya know, I've been thinkin'... We've been talkin' about doin' somethin' fun for a while now. You ever thought about takin' a trip somewhere?"

Tory turned her head, giving him a raised eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "A trip, huh? What kinda trip are we talkin' about? A weekend getaway, or are we talking full-on road trip?"

Jackson grinned, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Well, I was thinkin' we could take the long way - maybe even a road trip. You, me, some good tunes, a couple of bags of snacks... hell, maybe I'll even let you drive for a change." He smirked playfully, nudging her with his elbow.

Tory chuckled, shaking her head. "You mean, you let me drive? That's rich."

Jackson threw his hands up in mock surrender. "Hey, I'm just tryin' to be generous here. I don't mind sittin' in the passenger seat, gettin' a chance to put my feet up, and maybe even catch a nap while you take us down some random highway I've never heard of."

She gave him a teasing glance, crossing her arms. "So, you're tellin' me you'll let me drive, but only so you can nap?"

"Exactly!" he said with a grin, leaning back on his elbows, "Ain't no shame in it. What's better than a nap on a road trip, huh?"

Tory laughed, shaking her head at his antics. "Okay, I'm in for a road trip, but just so you know, I'll probably get us lost at least once."

Jackson winked at her. "Oh, I'm countin' on it. I got a real good sense of direction, so I figure it'll be a great adventure. You can try your best to steer us into the middle of nowhere, but I'll be there to help find the way back."

Tory smirked and looked out over the water, considering the thought. "Where would we even go, though? Anywhere in particular?"

"I was thinkin' maybe headin' up the coast a bit," Jackson suggested, his tone light but full of the excitement of possibility. "Maybe check out some small towns, eat some good food, and see some places we've never been. Or hell, we could even get a little crazy and head outta state. Who knows? The world's our oyster, darlin'."

She tilted her head, enjoying the thought of it. A trip with Jackson, no expectations, just the open road and whatever came their way. It sounded perfect. "I like that idea," she said with a smile. "But I have to ask... you sure you could handle a weekend without wifi? I mean, come on, you've practically got an attachment to your phone. It might just kill you."

Jackson let out a dramatic sigh, his hand flying to his heart as if he were struck. "Tory, you wound me. I can totally live without wifi. I'm a man of the wild, of the great outdoors. Wifi's for folks who don't know how to truly experience nature."

Tory raised an eyebrow, giving him a knowing look. "Oh, really? You think you're gonna survive a weekend without a constant scroll of Instagram and whatever crazy TikTok videos you're glued to?"

Jackson leaned in toward her, giving her an exaggerated, serious look. "Darlin', I don't need no wifi to have a good time. I'm a simple man. I find peace in the sound of the wind, the feel of the open road, and of course, your laugh when I make some ridiculous joke."

Tory burst into laughter, playfully swatting him in the arm. "That's what I thought. You'd be in withdrawals in an hour."

Jackson grinned, leaning back again to rest his hands behind his head. "I reckon I'd survive just fine. I'll make you a deal. If I can survive without my phone for a whole weekend, you'll have to admit that I'm the ultimate road trip partner."

"Hmm." Tory tapped her chin thoughtfully, pretending to ponder it seriously. "I think I could live with that. But, you're gonna have to be real creative to keep me entertained without any distractions."

Jackson chuckled. "Oh, I'm more than capable of keepin' you entertained, darlin'. Believe me." He winked at her again, his usual teasing tone returning.

Tory smiled, her eyes glinting with a mix of affection and amusement. "Alright, then. A road trip it is. But if you start whining about not having wifi, I'm leaving you on the side of the road. No questions asked."

"Deal," Jackson agreed with a grin, locking eyes with her. "But you better make sure your car's got a decent set of speakers, 'cause I'm gonna be belting out some tunes the whole way. I'll make you my personal concert."

Tory rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help the laugh that escaped her. "You are such a dork."

"Only the best kind of dork," he replied with a mock bow. "But really, the trip's gonna be perfect. Just us, the road, and a whole bunch of memories to make. What's not to love?"

"Yeah." Tory's smile softened, her heart light. "No drama, no pressure, just us. Sounds good to me."

For a few moments, they sat in comfortable silence, the only sounds being the waves lapping at the shore and the wind rustling through the nearby trees. The setting sun cast a warm golden light across everything, and Tory felt a sense of peace settle over her, the kind she hadn't realized she'd been craving.

Jackson turned his head slightly, his eyes still on the horizon, but his voice softening. "I'm glad it's you I'm doin' this with, T. Honestly. It's been a wild ride, but with you, it feels right. No stress. Just us."

Tory's heart fluttered at his words, and she turned to look at him, her eyes soft. "I feel the same way, Jackson. It's just easy, you know? No games, no drama. Just... us."

He smiled, and in that moment, everything felt effortless. It wasn't about where they went or what they did - it was about being together, and she knew that whatever came their way, as long as they had each other, they'd be just fine.

"I reckon we're gonna make a hell of a team on this road trip," Jackson said, his voice full of warmth and confidence.

"Definitely," Tory agreed, feeling grounded and at peace in a way she hadn't in a long time. "Let's do it."

Clementine stepped out of the car, the familiar scent of pine and fresh grass filling her senses. She took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her time away melt away with each step as she walked toward the front door of the house. The sound of laughter and the low hum of conversation drifted through the cracks in the windows, and a sense of warmth and comfort surrounded her. She was home.

She gave a small knock on the door, a smile tugging at her lips as it swung open, revealing her dad Caleb. His face lit up when he saw her, and before she could say anything, he wrapped her in a tight hug.

"Clem! You're back!" Caleb said, his voice thick with affection as he pulled away, holding her at arm's length to get a good look at her. "Look at you, all grown up and winning karate tournaments in Hong Kong. Your mom and I are so proud of you."

Clementine chuckled, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks. "Thanks, Dad. It still feels a little surreal."

Tyler appeared from behind Caleb, grinning from ear to ear. "Yeah, you're a karate champion now, huh?" he teased, crossing his arms. "Guess I better start working on my defense. Don't want to get my ass kicked by my little sister."

Clementine shot him a playful glare, shoving him lightly. "You're lucky I'm not in the mood to take you down right now, Tyler," she said with a grin. "I'll save that for later."

Tyler's eyes widened in mock horror, and he raised his hands in surrender. "Whoa, whoa. I was just kidding. I know when to bow out gracefully."

Anastasia, who had been sitting at the kitchen counter, listening to the exchange, suddenly stood up, her dramatic flair making an entrance as she clapped her hands together. "Okay, okay! The champion has arrived! Now, tell me everything," she said, her voice high-pitched with excitement. "I need all the details. The play-by-play. Was it a high-kick that won you the match? Was it dramatic? Did you throw some punches and land some badass moves?"

Clementine rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. Anastasia had always been extra, especially when it came to drama, but in this case, it was kind of endearing. She knew Anastasia was probably more excited than anyone else in the family, even if she didn't always show it in the most subtle way.

"Okay, fine," Clementine said with a laugh. "But only if you promise to keep the commentary to a minimum. It was a big deal for me, but it wasn't exactly a movie scene."

"Are you kidding? This is as close as I'm getting to a movie scene right now," Anastasia retorted with a dramatic sigh as she leaned over the counter. "Now, I want to know everything - the anticipation, the rivalries, the high stakes. Tell me, how did it feel when you stepped onto that mat?"

Clementine sat down at the kitchen table, glancing at Tyler and Caleb, who were both listening intently, though they kept their smiles small. She realized just how much she missed this. The family, the small moments that made everything feel like home. She took a breath, ready to recount the whirlwind of emotions she'd experienced in Hong Kong.

"It felt... crazy," Clementine began, leaning back in her chair. "I was so nervous at first. I mean, I've always loved karate, but going up against people from all over the world? It was a whole different level."

"Sounds like you had your hands full," Tyler said, a grin spreading across his face. "But you pulled through, huh?"

"Yeah," she said, her eyes lighting up as she recalled the match. "It was this intense back-and-forth. I was trying to keep my head in the game, but there were moments where I thought I might mess up. I was just... trying to stay calm, breathe, focus on what I knew."

"Girl, you always were the cool one under pressure," Anastasia said, her tone full of admiration. "But tell me - what happened in the final round? You've gotta give me the juicy bits."

Clementine laughed softly, her mind flashing back to the final match. "It came down to the wire. I was pretty exhausted, but I knew I had to dig deep. My opponent was good, and I knew they were gunning for the win. But I... I just remembered everything I'd been taught - by Miyagi-Do, by Robby, by everyone. And I did it. I landed the kick that ended the match. It was all muscle memory, really. I didn't think about it too much. It just... happened."

"That's my girl," Caleb said, his voice warm with pride. "You've got that determination in your blood."

"Yeah, it was like you were born to do this," Tyler added, looking genuinely impressed.

Anastasia was practically glowing now, leaning forward. "I swear, this feels like the start of something big. I'm not surprised, though. You've always had it in you. But that kick - tell me more. Was it, like, a super high kick? Were you soaring through the air like some kind of karate goddess?"

Clementine laughed, shaking her head. "Okay, I didn't exactly fly through the air, but it was pretty intense. The adrenaline hit me, and I just went for it."

Tyler snorted. "I bet it was super dramatic. I'm gonna be telling people how my sister kicked some international competitor's ass for years. It's gonna be my new party story."

Anastasia clapped her hands again, her excitement palpable. "I'm still waiting for a video of the moment! If I had been there, I'd have screamed so loud the whole arena would've heard me. Imagine it - the roar of the crowd, the dramatic pause, and then BAM - the final move."

Clementine couldn't help but smile at the thought, her family's energy making the moment even sweeter. It wasn't just about the victory, she realized. It was about coming home to this. To them.

"I wish you all could've been there," she said quietly, her voice softening. "But being able to come home and tell you about it? That's better than anything."

"Don't worry, Clemmie," Tyler said, pulling her into a half-hug, "we were cheering for you all along. In spirit. And, uh, if you ever get too good at karate, I'm gonna need a protection plan."

Clementine laughed, ruffling his hair. "I'll make sure to go easy on you, big brother."

Anastasia stood up, dramatic as ever. "Well, you know what this calls for, right?"

"What?" Clementine asked, raising an eyebrow.

"A celebration, of course!" Anastasia declared, throwing her hands up. "We're gonna have a little family feast tonight. I'm cookin', and you, young lady, will tell me every single detail while I make your favorite meal."

Clementine smiled, feeling the weight of the last few weeks settle into something comfortable, something familiar. "That sounds perfect."

Caleb wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her in for a hug. "I'm proud of you, Clem. But more than that, I'm just glad you're home."

Tyler added with a grin, "Yeah, and next time you're out there kicking ass, we're all going with you."

The warmth of their love, their pride, and their teasing filled the room. Clementine felt a deep sense of gratitude for the family that had always supported her. This victory - this moment - was as much theirs as it was hers.

And as the evening unfolded with laughter, teasing, and the promise of a delicious meal, Clementine couldn't help but feel like, no matter where life took her, this was home.

The sun was setting, casting a soft golden hue over the horizon, the sky painted with shades of pink and purple. The sound of the waves crashing gently against the shore echoed in the distance, and the air was thick with the scent of saltwater and the promise of a new chapter.

Clementine stood at the edge of the balcony, her elbows resting on the railing as she looked out at the tranquil scene before her. The world felt different now, quieter in a way, but also full of possibility. She had spent so much of her life navigating through chaos, pushing through self-doubt, and working her way to this point. But now, as she took in the peaceful view, she could feel the weight of everything she had accomplished - everything she had learned - and for the first time, it felt like everything was right.

Behind her, she heard footsteps approach. A familiar presence, one that had been with her through every high and low. Robby's soft chuckle reached her ears before his hand slid onto the railing beside hers, his shoulder brushing against her own as he joined her in the quiet moment.

"You know," he said, his voice low and comforting, "I think we might've just made it out of the madness."

Clementine turned her head, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she met his gaze. Robby's hair was a little messier than usual, a sign of the days they had spent together, of late nights and long conversations. There was a peacefulness about him now, one that matched the calmness of the ocean in front of them. His eyes, once filled with so much uncertainty and anger, now held nothing but warmth and a sense of belonging. It was like they had both come home, not just to each other but to themselves.

"I don't know about you," she said, her voice teasing but full of affection, "but I'm pretty sure we're far from normal. So, maybe 'making it out of the madness' is a little optimistic."

Robby smiled, his eyes sparkling as he looked at her. "Normal? You think I'm gonna settle for normal?" He grinned, nudging her playfully with his elbow. "Nah, I'll take this chaos with you any day."

Clementine rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress the grin that tugged at her lips. "You're a glutton for punishment," she teased, her gaze shifting to the sunset again, her thoughts briefly drifting back to all they had been through together - Hong Kong, the competitions, the constant battles with Cobra Kai, and the long road to this moment.

"Are you nervous?" Robby asked, his voice quieter now. "I mean, about what's next? About us?"

Clementine blinked, her heart giving a little flutter at the thought. She hadn't really allowed herself to think too deeply about what came after all of this - after the tournaments, after the chaos, after the battles. There was still so much ahead of them. The road wasn't paved, and they didn't have all the answers. But looking at Robby, standing beside her in this moment, Clementine realized she didn't need to know everything. Not now.

"No," she said softly, her eyes finding his. "I'm not nervous. Not anymore. I used to think I had to have everything figured out. But I think... I think I'm okay with not knowing. With just being here, with you."

Robby's expression softened, and for a moment, it felt like the world around them disappeared. It was just the two of them - two people who had fought so hard for their place in this world, for their right to be together. And now, standing here, with the promise of more to come, Clementine felt like they had earned this peace, this moment.

"I've got you," Robby said, his voice low but steady, full of conviction. "I don't need to know what's coming next either. But I do know I want to be by your side when it gets here."

Clementine's heart warmed, and she stepped closer to him, feeling the familiar comfort of his presence wrapping around her like a blanket. She reached up, gently brushing a strand of hair away from his face as she searched his eyes, searching for the truth in them.

"Me too," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "I think I've been looking for something like this my whole life. And now that I've found it... I'm not letting go."

Robby's lips curved into a small smile, his fingers brushing gently against her hand. "Good. Because I'm not going anywhere."

For a moment, there was silence between them, the kind of silence that only came with absolute trust. It wasn't awkward or heavy; it was just the comfort of being in each other's company, of knowing that whatever came next, they would face it together.

Then, Robby stepped closer, his hand gently cupping her cheek as he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a kiss that was soft and full of promises. It wasn't a kiss of victory or of celebration. It was a kiss of understanding, of finally having found something worth fighting for.

As they pulled apart, still lingering in the quiet aftertaste of the kiss, Clementine felt something shift inside her - a peace, a calm certainty that everything they had gone through, everything they had fought for, was leading them to this moment. The future, unknown and unpredictable, was theirs to shape. And they were going to do it together.

"I think we're ready," she said, her voice steady and sure.

Robby nodded, a look of unwavering resolve in his eyes. "Yeah. We are."

And as the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting its final golden glow over the horizon, Clementine and Robby stood together, side by side, ready for whatever the next chapter would bring. Because no matter what happened, they had each other. And that was enough.

ASH SPEAKS!!!!

i've noticed no one really is reading or voting... so i suppose its time to end this fic. i want to thank you guys for love and support on this fic🫶🏻

please stop being a ghost reader and please vote on this final chapter!

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the reason i keep unpublishing and republishing is chapters is because when i see views go up and votes aren't... its really annoying. cause its not hard to vote and show support on fanfics.

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STOP BEING A GHOST READER!!
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