Post by charlirozzi on Oct 30, 2024 14:36:03 GMT -8
After a few moments, dressed in her workout gear and walking in as she knocks, no hesitation or pause at all, Charli walked into Nathan’s office with a small smirk on her lips.
”Your office is bigger than Night’s. Interesting.“
Nathan turned around in his chair, the bat casually balanced between his knees as he looked Charli over with a cocky grin.
”Noticed that, huh? Guess I’ve got a knack for taking what I want,“ he shot back, tapping the bat against his hand. ”Figured you’d appreciate an ace like this when the time comes.“ He leaned forward, holding out his trusty barbed wire bat slightly.
”Not that you’re ever shy about getting the job done, but… sometimes it helps to have a little extra weight to swing, right?“
Charli approached the desk with a smirk, her eyes immediately on the bat with an excited glint to them that wasn’t there just moments before.
”We have that in common… getting what we want.“ Her tone was littered with an excited tone as she took the bat from him, perching on the edge of her desk to brush her fingers over the bat, her fingertips dancing over the barbed wire, ignoring the couple of cuts they left as her eyes practically danced with glee.
”This is a thing of beauty. Iconic…“ She finally looked at the small cut on her finger and pressed it to her lips to clean the blood away. ”Thanks Nate, this is going to tip the scale for sure…“
Nathan’s smirk widened as he watched her admire the barbed bat, a gleam of possessive pride flashing in his eyes.
”You know, this here is my prized weapon,“ he said, voice rich with a hint of teasing. ”Letting you have it doesn’t come free, Charli. You owe me.“ He leaned in, gaze dark and intent. ”Unless… you can come up with a way to pay me back right now?“
She turned slightly to face Nathan, the same smirk still on her lips as she teasingly held the bat close to her chest with a gasp.
”Well it’s a very… very nice bat. She’s gorgeous, I can see why you’d be so attached to her.“ Charli blinks slowly, a faux-innocent expression on her face.
”I think I owe you more than one… that match is hardly a punishment is it? So that would make… two. That I owe you.“
Nathan’s gaze sharpened, his grin widening as she clutched the bat to her chest. ”Oh, two favors? I think I like the sound of that.“ He leaned back, eyes trailing over her, savoring her playful demeanor. ”But don’t think I’m letting you off easy, Charli.“
She sighed and sat up a little straighter, cradling the bat to her like a baby. Her eyes never left his face even as that coy smile turned into a slight pout.
”I did warn you my temper was a ward onto herself…“
Nathan’s smirk deepened as he leaned back, taking in her coy smile and the way she held his bat like it was her prized possession. ”Oh, I know your temper all too well. And I’m betting those favors of yours might be just as interesting.“
He paused, letting the weight of his words hang between them. ”So tell me, Charli… what do you have in mind for the two favors you owe me?“
She pretended to muse over his query, the bat still very carefully nestled to her chest.
”What do you want? Those losers taken out so we have the strongest faction out there…?“ She patted the handle of the bat with a smile.
”Or some social media lessons for Liam, since he apparently thinks it’s a replacement for a therapist?“
With each suggestion her tone remained playful and teasing, no hint of malice there aside from the one she always carried in everything she said.
”Or… I promise not to fuck on your desk like I did Chris’… hmm?“
Nathan leaned in, his grin widening as he eyed her. ”The only way you’d be fucking on my desk, Charli, is if it’s with me,“ he said, voice edged with a mix of flirtation and challenge.
”And these favors you owe? I’ll make sure you remember every single one. So, you better be ready to make good on ‘em, especially now that you’ve got my prized weapon in your hands.“ His gaze dropped briefly to the bat, then back to her with a daring glint.
She leaned in to match his smirk, arching one brow for just a moment before breaking into a breathy laugh.
”I’m sure the wealth of experience you have over me would rock my fucking world.“ Her fingers tightened around the handle of the bat, not too much just a firm grip with a slide of her hand.
”I always make good on my debts, Nate.“ Finally she sat back, that same smirk pulling her lips into a smile before jumping off the desk to her feet with a giggle.
”And thank you again, for trusting me with your baby… she and I are going to have so much fun.“
Nathan watched her, his smirk unwavering as she leaned in. ”Oh, sweetheart, you wouldn’t forget it,“ he replied smoothly, enjoying the challenge in her eyes as she gripped the bat.
As she jumped off the desk with a giggle, he couldn’t resist adding, ”Just remember, you owe me more than that bat’s going to help with.“ His eyes sparkled with amusement as he leaned back, giving her a mock salute. ”Go on, then. Show me what kind of fun you and ‘my baby’ can really stir up.“
”It’s worth every last favour I owe.“ A flirtatious flutter of her eyelashes before she moved towards the door, leaning into the frame with another little giggle. ”I’ll make sure to REALLY put on a show.“
As Charli slipped out, bat in hand, Nathan leaned back with a smirk, muttering to himself, ”Allegiance, eh? We’ll see how loyal you really are…“
Did I mention how much I already love you
Charli finally walked into the small room that was just off of Nate’s office, the same one she had corralled Liam into when training with her the day before. Still dressed in gym wear, tiny black shorts and a matching sports bra, nothing else.
”Ok Daddy Callaghan, teach me your ways…“
Nathan glanced around the small training room, taking in the minimal equipment and mats laid out across the floor. He grinned at Charli’s entrance, her confidence clear in her posture.
”Alright, let’s get to work then,“ he said, nodding toward the open mat space. ”You’re here to learn from the ground up, so that’s where we start.“ His smirk lingered as he circled her, assessing. ”We’re gonna focus on strength and precision. Show me what you’ve got, and I’ll see where we need to sharpen those edges.“
She stretched out her muscles, rolling her shoulders as she walked over to the mat. Stopping in front of him and looping her fingers together. ”You wanna see what I’ve got?“ As she spoke she slowly lifted her arms up over her head, stretching out her body and making no attempt to tug at her shorts as they moved up with her stretch just a little… her back arched a little, taking her time in the stretch, a little distraction before she switched speeds and went for a quick latch onto his arm, making a move for torqued hold.
Nathan raised a brow, his gaze lingering just a moment as he caught the deliberate stretch and shift of her form. But he didn’t let himself get too distracted, smirking as he braced himself for her quick move. ”Alright, let’s see what you’ve got,“ he muttered, shifting his stance to counter her hold.
He admired her speed and the clever distraction, feeling her grip tighten on his arm. ”Not bad, Charli,“ he said, his tone playful but impressed. ”But don’t think a little stretch is enough to catch me off guard.“
She pressed up against his back, as she twisted her grip, chest to back and her small laugh close to his ear. ”Oh I don’t, just enough to get things positioned right…“ this time she went to sweep the leg, her right around his left with a palm to his back and her full force behind it. Nathan felt her press up against him, that laugh close to his ear as she twisted her grip. He was just about to counter when she swept his leg, forcing him to shift his weight to avoid being taken down. ”Not bad,“ he muttered, a slight smirk on his face, catching her wrist to steady himself. ”You’ve got some tricks up your sleeve, but let’s see how well they hold up when I know what’s coming.“
”Probably poorly.“ She smiled as she stepped back around him, coming to stand face to face with him once again. ”Two years with a lot of suspensions hasn’t earned me much actual fight experience.“ She didn’t sound worried or anxious, the same cocky confidence she always had. ”Lucky for me I’m a natural…“ this time she stepped in for a lock up, wanting to size him up more directly.
Nathan’s grin didn’t waver as he braced for her, watching her step in confidently for the lock-up. ”Natural, huh?“ he mused, the hint of a challenge in his eyes. He leaned in, meeting her grip with a solid but controlled force, giving her just enough resistance to feel his strength without overwhelming her.
”Then let’s see what that ‘natural’ can do when she’s up against someone who’s seen it all.“ He smirked, testing her balance, clearly sizing up her instincts as much as her strength.
”Natural.“ She repeated confidently.d She adjusted her balance with each change of pressure he gave, slipping under her arm and his to press her back to his chest now; both of their arms now twisted out in front of her, bringing them across her chest and dropping her other arm to land an elbow back into his sternum, not holding back at all.
Nathan barely had a second to brace himself, her elbow connecting hard enough to jolt him back a step, but he quickly shifted his footing, grinning through the impact. ”Alright, natural, you’re coming in hot,“ he muttered with a chuckle, giving her shoulder a firm squeeze.
Then, with a swift pivot, he manoeuvred behind her, looping one arm around her waist and using his leverage to hold her in place just tight enough to remind her who she was dealing with. ”Not bad, now let’s see if you can handle the next level.“
”I’m always hot…“ The grip of her arm around her waist caught her breath for a second, but she didn’t miss a beat, a smirk on her lips as she shifted on her feet, a stomp to his foot as she lurched forward to try and break his hold, just catching her balance to stay on her feet as she moved forward.
Nathan smirked as she broke free, turning to face her with a hint of admiration in his eyes. ”Always hot, huh?“ He quickly recovered, stepping forward and reaching out to feign a grapple, testing her reflexes. ”Guess we’ll see if that heat’s enough to get you through the long haul.“ He took a playful swipe at her, keeping his movements light but steady, gauging how she handled herself when she was back on the offensive.
She avoided the swipe with ease, the quickness she had on her feet being what made up for her still to be honed skills. ”Yeah… always.“ She grinned and moved around him, not making any move to attack just circling him, her eyes scanning and looking for any weaknesses, her eyes not leaving him as she just circled him.
”Are you doubting my stamina?!“
Nathan smirked, watching her with that hint of challenge in his eyes. ”Doubting your stamina? Not yet,“ he replied, rolling his shoulders and keeping a relaxed stance as he mirrored her circling. ”But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t plan on puttin’ it to the test.“ He let the words hang, just enough to keep her on edge, knowing she’d be anticipating his next move.
She considered acting first, but instead she matched his smirk with one of her own. ”Test me… that’s why I’m here.“ She feigned making a move but then pulled back. Opening her arms just a little more and stopped on the spot. ”Now.. teach me something!“ She challenged him this time, tilting her head as she did.
Nathan smirked, seeing her challenge. Without a word, he seized her, lifting her clean off the ground and driving her down with a hard spinebuster, the impact reverberating through the mat. Before she had a chance to catch her breath, he pinned her down, trapping her arms and leaning his weight just enough to keep her in place, his gaze darkened as he held her there.
”Is this what you were asking for, Charli?“ he said close to her ear in a low tone, testing her resolve.
She had her feet planted on the mat even from the prone position he now had her in, she smiled up at him, even wriggling a little under his weight. ”Yeah.“ She pulled her feet up just a little, getting more steady in her position, knowing she couldn’t just force him off and trying to be ready when he moved.
”This is more like it.“ Not a hint of pain in her tone, as if her body didn’t register it. A mis-wiring she had learned to take advantage of.
Nathan smirked down at her, his hold unyielding. ”That so?“ He leaned in, applying just a bit more pressure to keep her pinned. ”Well, let’s see how much you can handle.“ He shifted his weight, making her struggle beneath him even more challenging. Her wriggling didn’t faze him. If anything, it only fueled his curiosity to test her limits further.
She huffed at the added pressure, almost a bratty sigh as she pushed against him now, trying to slip her hands between their bodies to find some way to alleviate the pressure on her and drew her knees up, lifting her body just slightly on one side to test momentum.
”That’s so.“ She challenged, a grin crossing her lips. ”Daddy Callaghan…“
Nathan leaned in, his smirk widening at her defiance. ”Is it or are you just stroking my ego?“ He tightens his hold just enough to keep her in place, letting her struggle and test the resistance, almost inviting her to find her way out if she could.
He laughed, meeting her gaze with a challenge. ”You’ve got a lot of nerve, don’t you, calling me that. Usually when I’m called that, I’d have you bent over my desk in my office.“
Her eyes stayed locked on him, the tip of her tongue touching her top lip with a challenging, flirtatious expression. And then pulling up the one side she uses the momentum to throw his weight against him, reversing the roles until she’s now on top of him, shifting and placing her knees against his arms, pinning him down with considerably less force than he applied to her, not for a lack of trying.
”Is that what you’re thinking about when you’re in there all day?“
She kept shifting her momentum, applying the pressure across his chest as she straddled him, her feet in at his sides, heels hooked into his ribs.
Nathan’s gaze didn’t waver as she shifted, taking her position over him, he couldn’t help but grin at her and her boldness. ”Is that what I’m thinking about?“ He arched a brow, leaning up just slightly against her hold, testing her own strength.
”Well, now that you mention it, maybe you’ve got me wondering if you can handle more than you let on.“ He tilted his head, his voice dropping lower. ”So, what else you got, Charli? Or are we stopping here?“
Her hands immediately pushed against his chest, forcing him back down to the mat, leaning forward, her knees pressing into his arms, her feet still pressed into his rib cage and she grinned.
”I can handle a lot more than… anyone gives me credit for.“
Nathan’s smirk only deepened as she held him down, feeling the press of her knees and the intensity in her gaze. ”Is that so?“ he wondered, letting her apply the pressure while his hands were resting but ready at his sides. ”Well, I suppose I’ll have to test that for myself, won’t I?“
He gave a slight shift under her, a hint of defiance in his own stance. ”You’ve got my attention, Charli. Question is, how long can you keep it?“
She leaned in more, really applying pressure to his arms, rolling her hips forward to put all of her body weight down on his chest, a smile still on her lips as she pressed back on his challenge with one of her own.
”I’ve had your attention, from the day I tweeted you… I’ve had your attention Nathan, don't deny it.“
She leaned into her knees again, pressing into the tops of his arms, her feet almost under him now and her hands still firm on his chest.
”Now stop holding back and make it hurt.“
Nathan twisted beneath her, using his hips to create momentum as he flipped their positions. He pinned her wrists to the mat, his fingers wrapped firmly around her forearms, his knee pressed into her thigh to immobilise her legs. The weight of his chest bore down against her, his grip firm and unrelenting.
”Still think you can handle this, Charli?“ he challenged, his face close to hers as he looked into her eyes with a new intensity.
Nathan shifted his weight again, pinning her even more intensely. He tightened his hold on her wrists, digging his knee deeper against her thigh to keep her locked in place. His other arm pressed firmly across her collarbone, using his body weight to intensify the pressure on her chest, effectively limiting her movement and testing her resolve.
”Is that what you fucking wanted?“ his voice was low as he leaned in closer, holding her in place, his grip and the force behind each move unyielding.
The movement caught her by surprise, her body hitting the mat hard, his experience showing as he was quick to prevent her movement, taking away the use of her legs. Despite the pain that was just beginning to register, she tilted her head to close a little of the distance between their faces. ”Still handling it-“
Before she could finish what she was saying, she felt the weight of him, the pressure of his body, the veracity behind his knee on her thigh, her chest weighed back to the mat thanks to his arm across her collarbone.
”Is it supposed to hurt yet?“ She couldn’t move and she knew it, her palms flat on the mat but her eyes not leaving his, her gaze full of challenge and defiance.
Nathan’s arm shifted from her collarbone to her neck, his hand pressing firmly just beneath her jaw, adding an intensity that pulsed under his grip. He maintained firm pressure, enough to demand her attention as his knee dug deeper into her thigh, anchoring her to the mat with no room to wriggle free. His gaze bore into hers, and he leaned in close, his voice low.
”Still handling it, are we?“ he challenged, watching her face for any hint of resistance or submission.
His hand on her neck had likely quite an opposite effect, smiling through her now restricted breath control. The sharp pain in her thigh kept her very aware of the control he was so easily able to exert, but even in the face of that her gaze remained defiant.
A sharp intake of breath to open her diaphragm, her hands on the mat turning palm up and she tried to pull them up, attempting some movement in her arms knowing that her body was unable to find any wiggle room at all, but she kept trying anyway.
Nathan watched her reaction, the defiance in her eyes matching the pressure he held over her neck, restricting her breath just enough to feel his control without entirely cutting off her air. His knee dug deeper and sharper into her thigh, keeping her even more grounded, fully aware of the power dynamic he was establishing. Seeing her smile through it all only spurred him on, an amused, intense look in his eyes.
”You’re relentless,“ he said, leaning in just slightly. ”But that’s not going to be enough to get free.“ He shifted his weight subtly, pushing down more firmly, making sure she felt every inch of pressure as her hands pressed helplessly against the mat.
The slight shift he did to add pressure allowed her to put just an inch between her back and the mat, it wasn’t an obvious difference, a shiver of her shoulders as he moved. Her act pressed her throat against his hand tighter, but she focused on that breath control. Her eyes on his as she finally broke just a little, the ache of that knee in her thigh renewed with that shift.
A sharp, pained intake of breath at that pressure, the small gap between her back and the mat allowing her to roll her shoulders back just a little as he leaned into the pressure he was applying, barely wiggle room but just enough to alleviate some of the pressure his body placed on hers.
Even prone, pained and having to focus on her breath to keep it steady, she kept those eyes locked on his, silently daring him to take it that one step further, potentially the one step too far.
Nathan’s gaze darkened as he registered her slight defiance, the shiver of her shoulders as she created that minimal space, pushing against his hand at her throat. His grip tightened just slightly, reinforcing the pressure, testing the fine line between challenge and submission. The dig of his knee into her thigh was unrelenting, a reminder of his control even as she found a fraction of movement.
”You want fucking more? You want pain?“ A darkness began to come over Nathan, one that Charli might even recognize, as it could match her own. He squeezed her throat with all of his power but for only for just a second before he let go and jumped off of her, snapping out of it. He was breathing heavy while on his knees, looking to the side of the room, trying to quell that darkness inside of him.
Her breath caught in her throat as he pressed down, gripping her throat, she could feel his fingers impressing, leaning bruises on her skin as she fought for her next breath, it lasted just long enough for her to witness that darkness in his eyes and then he was off of her.
She laid there for a second, barely long enough to feel the relief as her body was free and she could fill her lungs with ease again. That first breath burned her lungs as she sat up and stared at Nathan for a moment, her eyes studying his body language.
”That’s what I wanted…“ Her tone was soft, the purr of a tone she used when talking to Kian as she pulled up to her knees and crawled forward to where he sat, her face less than an inch from his, her nose brushing against his cheek as she spoke.
”You want us to dominate? To set the standard? Then we… they have to learn how not to hold back… which means you can’t either.“
Nathan held her gaze, the intensity clear as he leaned in close, his voice a low growl. ”Are you sure you want that Nathan Callaghan back? Because once he’s out, there’s no turning back, Charli.“
His fingers tightened subtly at his side, just barely restrained, as he searched her expression for any hesitation. ”You think you can handle it, think you know what it means… but that old version of me? He didn’t hold back for anyone.“ He paused, eyes narrowing. ”Is that really what you want?“
”It’s what we need… all of us.“ She nodded, her eyes flashing with that same shimmer or darkness he held before. Her own tone was still that soft purr, enticing but challenging all at once.
She leaned her head back a little, showing the bruises that were already beginning to form on her throat, tracing a finger along the marks he had left, pressing her nail hard against the skin.
”This. Is how I’m going to survive McKena Hardy when she has nothing left to uphold… the rest of the academy see that break in her today as her giving up: but it’s not. I know that and you know it too… she has nothing left to lose now.“ Her tone stayed low and intense as she dropped her head back down to meet his gaze again.
”Your nieces… Kian… they need this version of you to survive this. I’ve taken them as far as I can right now, willing to give up everything to take a stand as a United front…“ she reached out with one hand and held his jaw, ensuring their gaze stayed locked in. ”But I need you… the real you… to get them the rest of the way there.“
Nathan’s gaze held steady, a dark intensity settling in as he studied Charli’s expression, every flicker of darkness and determination in her eyes. He reached up, his hand covering hers as she held his jaw, their shared energy crackling in the air.
”You’re right,“ he said, his voice low and unwavering. ”If we’re going to make it through this, if they’re going to make it through… they need this side of me. Not the polished leader. The real one, the one willing to do whatever it takes.“
His fingers moved to her wrist, gripping it as he leaned in, holding her gaze. ”You think you can keep up with that, Charli? Because once we start, there’s no turning back. We’re all in.“
”I’ve been all in.“ Her eyes still locked on his, she didn’t move back or try to free her wrist from his grasp, she just offered a small nod, her own gaze matching the intensity of his.
”I want this, more than I’ve ever wanted anything in my life, I want to break people… I want them to squirm and suffer beneath me and I want them to do it because they don’t have any other fucking choice.“ The darkness she had shown at The Division compound swelled behind her gaze as she spoke.
”I came to you, Nathan. I sought you out and I made Damn sure you knew where I wanted to be… so let go and let’s burn the whole thing down around them.“
Nathan’s hands tightened slightly, almost into a fist as he held her gaze, an approving look in his eye. ”Then that’s exactly what we’ll do,“ he said, his voice barely a murmur but charged with dark intent. ”We’re going to turn this place inside out, make them all feel it, feel us. Together.“
He let the moment linger, letting the weight of their pact settle in. Then, with a nod, he added, ”This is only the beginning, Charli. Let’s give them something they won’t ever forget.“
Charli… I don’t want you to get hurt.
Charli had directed Olly to exactly where she would be, the same small training room just off from Nathan’s office where she had been the night before. Mats already down, she leaned against the wall waiting for him. Dressed in her usual training attire of black shorts and a matching sports bra, her long hair tied back and up off her neck.
Her throat bore thick finger shaped bruises across it, smaller bruises littered the side of her neck, down to her shoulder, across her bare flat stomach. Her right thigh also showed off a large, angry bruise the size of a kneecap. She seemed completely unfazed but the marks on her body. Not even making an attempt to cover them.
To her they were a badge of honour, a sign that she was taking her training seriously. She had asked for a no DQ match and as such, she wanted to be prepared for every eventuality.
The sound of shuffling steps snapped her out of her thoughts. Olly had just stepped inside the room, dragging his feet across the floor. His outfit was pretty casual, a pair of consumed blue jeans and a black Division hoodie open on the front, revealing a white wifebeater underneath. He barely acknowledged the student with a nod of his head.
“Rough night?"
He greeted her with a smirk, hinting at the bruises on her body. Their first meeting after their interaction on social media was just as Charli would be expecting. That sarcastic, almost caustic tone of voice, always toeing the line between playful mockery and passive-aggression. He was hard to read, she heard that about him. But ever since his starting making waves in the MWE Academy he was known for his unique approach to the business. That was what she was looking for when she first reached out to him, that was also why she had no doubt he would accept this meeting that, if you think about it, makes no sense at all. She was scheduled to fight against his fellow trainer, fellow Division member and one of the few friends he has. Why would he accept to prepare her for it?
He took the hoodie off and tossed it on the floor without the slightest care. His hair was the usual mess of curls, a tad too long perhaps. He always wore that scruffy look, but he looked more tired than the usual. Sure, he had just come back from a match across the country, but the feeling she got by just looking at him and hearing his warid voice was that his nomadic lifestyle was starting to take a toll on him.
“I'm ready to go when you are."
”Looks like I’m not the only one who’s had a rough night.“ Her tone was the soft, defiant tone it always was. Despite appearances she always carried that old money air about her, a dignified confidence that was a juxtaposition to the mouthy way she presented herself on social media.
Her eyes scanned over Olly, she took on the just too dishevelled look he had, the distant exhaustion that made his movements a little heavier. It made her curious, with the reputation he had she had expected someone colder, instead he seemed… interested. The concept wasn’t new to her, she was used to confusing people with her presence and so was he, but this slight change to his demeanour wasn’t going to see her get comfortable.
”I asked Nate not to hold back. I’m asking the same of you, I get that we’re trainees, but I can take it.“ She lifted a hand to poke at the obvious choking mark around her throat. ”I know this isn’t exactly your speed but…“ she stepped onto the mat, her own movements slightly slower than they were the night before. ”I’m sure you’re more than capable of hurting me in your own way.“
For a brief moment, that devious smirk he was famous for appeared on his face.
Nathan. I should've known this was his doing. I just hope he didn't ask you to say 'Choke me, daddy' as he squeezed your neck."
He seemed in no rush of joining her on the mat. His movements were consciously slow, likely part of his mind games routine, or just to undermine her sense of confidence even further. "And don't worry, if I planned on holding back, I would be sitting on my couch in the Division Mansion now with a cold one in my hand."
Finally he stepped on the mat, taking two short steps to close in with Charli... And immediately headbutted her on the bridge of her nose.
She caught the smirk and shrugged a little, keeping her muscles warm as she remained reactionary, the same soft but intent tone as she spoke.
”Nobody has ever been able to make me do anything…“ she smirked now, her voice dropping to a low purr. ”I did call him Daddy Callaghan but that was before the choking started.“
She had slipped into the easy flirting game she usually played, she didn’t have a call on him yet to do more than that and she was well aware of the effect that she had on people, still in that aware but playful stance she barely had time to react to the sudden movement he made. Just managing to put enough space to prevent a break, but not enough to stop the sharp pain that shot through her head from his strike.
Even as blood trickled from her nose and her eyes watered from the shot to her nose, she didn’t make any verbal acknowledgment of the pain. She seemed to absorb the pain of it instead, two slow steps back and her hand picking the bridge of her nose to stop the bleeding.
”I assume Daddy isn’t your preferred pet name then?“ Even as she pushed her way through that sharp pain she couldn’t help but challenge him.
I hate it, just like I hated him. "
He replied with a chuckle, honestly amused. He actually liked her attitude, the defiance she was committing to even in a moment of difficulty. She was similar to him in that aspect, using that bravado, that arrogance to hide the struggles, attack as a defence mechanism.
Your fight starts the moment you enter the building, Charli, not when the bell rings. Stay sharp, always. Never lower your guard." He dropped that advice almost casually as he began to circle around her. Come on, girl. You were the most sought after recruit before the sorting, they all wanted you. Show me why."
”Noted.“ Her tone was that same low voice, but she was taking it in. She was absorbing everything that he said and even the way he moved. Once the bleeding finally stopped. She turned to keep her eye on him, as he circled her. His words tugged a smile at her lips, she knew why. And whilst the others might argue it was how loud she chose to be… she knew the truth.
Her history at her last wrestling school and her eventual expulsion showed a willingness and drive that the others simply didn’t have; that didn’t help her in this moment though - her body was slower than usual thanks to her training with Nathan the night before. She was intrigued by his hatred of the man, it was deep and seared in.
A quick move as she stepped to the side to sweep a leg, grabbing for his wrist at the same time. She couldn’t move as fast as she wanted to, the bruise on her thigh down to the bone and searing pain up and down her leg.
It was clear that she was far from 100%, whatever Nathan put her through was deeply affecting her performance. But he wasn't cutting her any slack for it, she asked him not to hold back and he wouldn't. He countered her takedown attempt with a stiff knee to the head. Charli barely had time to turn her face as she braced for the inevitable impact, avoiding getting hit once again on the nose. The blow was enough to knock her down, leaving her rattled and needing a moment to regroup.
Can't be just for the attitude, right? You're not the first mean girl to enter a wrestling school, you won't be the last. Or the best, either. " He taunted her, pushing her on her back with his foot. So, what is it?" The sole of his dirty boot hovering over her face was all she could see. She knew what was coming next, she knew he wouldn't hesitate to stomp her. She only had a small window of time for her to react, despite the pain coursing through her sore body
His words didn’t register this time, she felt the way he knocked her down with his foot, the way it was far too easy to take that boot to her thanks to slowed reaction times and something in her switched, a darkness clouded her eyes right as that boot came down and she moved, rolling to the side and up on her knees at a speed that shouldn’t be possible even at full health.
Once again she pulled from that place where pain drove her, using her exceptional speed and agility to grab that foot and roll his leg at the ankle, taking her shoulder in at the back of his knee and using his own weight against him, paired with the way she could turn his balance thanks to being on one leg; using this perfect symphony of skill and luck to bring him crashing down to the mat.
She didn’t say a single word, already letting go of his angle and getting back up to her feet, putting space between them so she could catch her breath, her body shaking with the pain she chose to ignore.
Olly snickered, immediately pushing himself up. He was surprised by that reaction, one he tried in every way to get out of her but definitely wasn't expecting to be that fast and effective. Still, he did a perfect job at hiding that behind that sneer.
He didn't speak this time, no word of advice for the young trainee, no snipes to light that fire inside her. He moved toward her, swinging the right hand. Perhaps a bit too telegraphed, and Charli had no issues dodging it. More came after that, but the girl's quick reflexes kept her out of harm's way. One doubt suddenly crossed her mind. Was he just playing with her? Were his strikes intentionally slow? She watched some of his matches, she knew he could do better than this. Was he just as tired as she was from last night's fatigues?
She only had two options and one was to continue playing his game and wait to find out what was coming and the other was to be proactive. And so she dropped her shoulder and dove forward, this time she took the both of them to the mat, his fall cushioning hers some but not quite enough, her quick movement knocking the win out of herself.
She faltered, having to catch a breath and not being able to follow up on the quick thinking, as she rolled to the side and laid on her back she slapped the mat hard with obvious annoyance. Her tone was harsher as her words came out with the painful exhale.
”FUCK!“
THUD!
She didn't see it coming, not now that it became abundantly clear that she wasn't in condition to continue. The kick that hit her on the side almost lifted her off the ground, a sharp pain coming from her ribs already bruised from the night before, turning her vision dark. It all happened so fast, she felt him picking her up from the floor and loaded her onto his shoulders in the fireman's carry position. This was it, he was about to hit her with his Born 2 Lose. As the realisation that perhaps this wasn't the brightest idea after all began to seep in, she made peace with the fact that she was about to get hit, and there was nothing she could do about it.
He was taking his time, teasing and taunting her furthermore, aware that right now she was helpless. He spun around, she could feel him move and her own body getting shifted. She closed her eyes, accepting her fate. But the knee didn't connect to her face, that pain she was ready to embrace never came. Instead, she found herself sitting on a bench.
You good?"
Olly's voice came to her ears, strangely calm. A stark contrast with the fury he displayed only moments ago. As her eyes opened, he was standing in front of her. In his hand, he had a water bottle. Without warning Charli, he threw it at her.
She just about caught that water bottle, the bench felt oddly non existent even as she was sitting on it, leaning her elbows to her knees and letting out a slow, near silent sigh. Her chin to her chest, she didn’t even look up at him at first. She stayed silent, the wordless pause stretched out between them as she tried to figure out why he stopped… she didn’t expect him to and she certainly wouldn’t have asked him to.
She didn’t know when to quit.
But apparently he did, finally, slowly she opened that bottle of water and took a sip, it tasted like blood and bile as her body screamed at her; pain radiating from her ribs where he had landed that kick. But she swallowed the water down and took another big gulp, before screwing the lid back on and fighting against the instinct in her body to swallow that second gulp down even when it felt like she was drowning.
”Yeah.“ She lied. Finally looking up at him and tilting her head off to one side. ”No.“
Leaning back against the wall behind the bench she half closed her eyes and took another deep breath, she felt it this time. New pains mingling with the old ones, the punishment she was putting her body through was preparation. Even when the injuries slowed her down, she was learning. And wasn’t that what she was there to do?
”I can’t control it. Not yet.“ It wasn’t clear if she was talking to him or herself, but her statement hung between them all the same.
You'll learn.” He replied, calm and secure. You'll have to, or it will be your ruin."
Pacing the room, Olly reached for his hoodie and put it on. Fishing inside the front pocket he pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter. He rested it between his lips and lit it up, taking a moment to stare at the flame dancing in front of him, almost entranced.
There are some fights you just can't win, Charli. Tonight was one of those." He kept some distance from her, in case his smoking would bother her. The kind of courtesy you wouldn't expect from the brash wrestler. And no matter what that voice inside you says, there's no point in fighting a battle you can't win."
He was speaking slowly, taking long drags of his cigarette between sentences, blowing puffs of smoke in front of him. Learn your limits, learn what you can and can't do. That's the only way you can tell whether you have an actual chance or you're just walking to the gallows."
A long pause followed his words, as if he wanted to let those words sink in to the young trainee. You wanted me to give you some advice to win your match against Mac... You can't. " Blunt, honest. That was Olly to her.
She watched him, her eyes trained on him as she slid one hand to hold her ribs, the familiar dull pain of somewhat serious damage ached through her body as she watched him. Listening to him speak, it occurred to her that he in fact, didn’t quite have the… as some described it, death wish, that she did. Most people didn’t and she shouldn’t have been shocked, but she was just because of who he was.
”Not to beat her.“ She shook her head slowly, her breathing was measured and slow, but she didn’t let the pain show on her face as she spoke. ”I know I can’t beat her, I never expected to… I want to make this hard for her.“ That sake darkness flickered in her eyes, she leaned forward a little and grabbed up that bottle of water, taking a couple more mouthfuls before closing her eyes, shutting out everything in the room.
”I want to hurt her. I want her to remember me…“ she smiled, opening her eyes again and meeting his with a steel glare. ”Of course I want to be the best, but there’s more to that than winning a match.“
Hearing those words put a smile on his face. That's true."
The pleased expression only lasted a flickering moment before his expression shifted back to the usual stern and cold demeanor. He tossed the cigarette on the floor, not caring if he was on Callaghan's turf. Actually, he probably did it on purpose, an act of defiance toward the Southie leader.
Just remember what I told you, learn to choose your fights. I'd hate to come back here to repeat the lesson."
Halfway between a threat and a friendly advice, his words echoed as the sound of his footsteps faded in the distance.
- - - -
I think I might have cracked a rib so I gotta get it strapped and then I’ll be good to go… later tonight?
What the fuck are you doing kid
How am I supposed to figure out what’s too far if I don’t get there before the match?
You figure that out with someone who isn’t Olly
Too late for that. I told him not to hold back…
[/font]
”Your office is bigger than Night’s. Interesting.“
Nathan turned around in his chair, the bat casually balanced between his knees as he looked Charli over with a cocky grin.
”Noticed that, huh? Guess I’ve got a knack for taking what I want,“ he shot back, tapping the bat against his hand. ”Figured you’d appreciate an ace like this when the time comes.“ He leaned forward, holding out his trusty barbed wire bat slightly.
”Not that you’re ever shy about getting the job done, but… sometimes it helps to have a little extra weight to swing, right?“
Charli approached the desk with a smirk, her eyes immediately on the bat with an excited glint to them that wasn’t there just moments before.
”We have that in common… getting what we want.“ Her tone was littered with an excited tone as she took the bat from him, perching on the edge of her desk to brush her fingers over the bat, her fingertips dancing over the barbed wire, ignoring the couple of cuts they left as her eyes practically danced with glee.
”This is a thing of beauty. Iconic…“ She finally looked at the small cut on her finger and pressed it to her lips to clean the blood away. ”Thanks Nate, this is going to tip the scale for sure…“
Nathan’s smirk widened as he watched her admire the barbed bat, a gleam of possessive pride flashing in his eyes.
”You know, this here is my prized weapon,“ he said, voice rich with a hint of teasing. ”Letting you have it doesn’t come free, Charli. You owe me.“ He leaned in, gaze dark and intent. ”Unless… you can come up with a way to pay me back right now?“
She turned slightly to face Nathan, the same smirk still on her lips as she teasingly held the bat close to her chest with a gasp.
”Well it’s a very… very nice bat. She’s gorgeous, I can see why you’d be so attached to her.“ Charli blinks slowly, a faux-innocent expression on her face.
”I think I owe you more than one… that match is hardly a punishment is it? So that would make… two. That I owe you.“
Nathan’s gaze sharpened, his grin widening as she clutched the bat to her chest. ”Oh, two favors? I think I like the sound of that.“ He leaned back, eyes trailing over her, savoring her playful demeanor. ”But don’t think I’m letting you off easy, Charli.“
She sighed and sat up a little straighter, cradling the bat to her like a baby. Her eyes never left his face even as that coy smile turned into a slight pout.
”I did warn you my temper was a ward onto herself…“
Nathan’s smirk deepened as he leaned back, taking in her coy smile and the way she held his bat like it was her prized possession. ”Oh, I know your temper all too well. And I’m betting those favors of yours might be just as interesting.“
He paused, letting the weight of his words hang between them. ”So tell me, Charli… what do you have in mind for the two favors you owe me?“
She pretended to muse over his query, the bat still very carefully nestled to her chest.
”What do you want? Those losers taken out so we have the strongest faction out there…?“ She patted the handle of the bat with a smile.
”Or some social media lessons for Liam, since he apparently thinks it’s a replacement for a therapist?“
With each suggestion her tone remained playful and teasing, no hint of malice there aside from the one she always carried in everything she said.
”Or… I promise not to fuck on your desk like I did Chris’… hmm?“
Nathan leaned in, his grin widening as he eyed her. ”The only way you’d be fucking on my desk, Charli, is if it’s with me,“ he said, voice edged with a mix of flirtation and challenge.
”And these favors you owe? I’ll make sure you remember every single one. So, you better be ready to make good on ‘em, especially now that you’ve got my prized weapon in your hands.“ His gaze dropped briefly to the bat, then back to her with a daring glint.
She leaned in to match his smirk, arching one brow for just a moment before breaking into a breathy laugh.
”I’m sure the wealth of experience you have over me would rock my fucking world.“ Her fingers tightened around the handle of the bat, not too much just a firm grip with a slide of her hand.
”I always make good on my debts, Nate.“ Finally she sat back, that same smirk pulling her lips into a smile before jumping off the desk to her feet with a giggle.
”And thank you again, for trusting me with your baby… she and I are going to have so much fun.“
Nathan watched her, his smirk unwavering as she leaned in. ”Oh, sweetheart, you wouldn’t forget it,“ he replied smoothly, enjoying the challenge in her eyes as she gripped the bat.
As she jumped off the desk with a giggle, he couldn’t resist adding, ”Just remember, you owe me more than that bat’s going to help with.“ His eyes sparkled with amusement as he leaned back, giving her a mock salute. ”Go on, then. Show me what kind of fun you and ‘my baby’ can really stir up.“
”It’s worth every last favour I owe.“ A flirtatious flutter of her eyelashes before she moved towards the door, leaning into the frame with another little giggle. ”I’ll make sure to REALLY put on a show.“
As Charli slipped out, bat in hand, Nathan leaned back with a smirk, muttering to himself, ”Allegiance, eh? We’ll see how loyal you really are…“
Did I mention how much I already love you
Charli finally walked into the small room that was just off of Nate’s office, the same one she had corralled Liam into when training with her the day before. Still dressed in gym wear, tiny black shorts and a matching sports bra, nothing else.
”Ok Daddy Callaghan, teach me your ways…“
Nathan glanced around the small training room, taking in the minimal equipment and mats laid out across the floor. He grinned at Charli’s entrance, her confidence clear in her posture.
”Alright, let’s get to work then,“ he said, nodding toward the open mat space. ”You’re here to learn from the ground up, so that’s where we start.“ His smirk lingered as he circled her, assessing. ”We’re gonna focus on strength and precision. Show me what you’ve got, and I’ll see where we need to sharpen those edges.“
She stretched out her muscles, rolling her shoulders as she walked over to the mat. Stopping in front of him and looping her fingers together. ”You wanna see what I’ve got?“ As she spoke she slowly lifted her arms up over her head, stretching out her body and making no attempt to tug at her shorts as they moved up with her stretch just a little… her back arched a little, taking her time in the stretch, a little distraction before she switched speeds and went for a quick latch onto his arm, making a move for torqued hold.
Nathan raised a brow, his gaze lingering just a moment as he caught the deliberate stretch and shift of her form. But he didn’t let himself get too distracted, smirking as he braced himself for her quick move. ”Alright, let’s see what you’ve got,“ he muttered, shifting his stance to counter her hold.
He admired her speed and the clever distraction, feeling her grip tighten on his arm. ”Not bad, Charli,“ he said, his tone playful but impressed. ”But don’t think a little stretch is enough to catch me off guard.“
She pressed up against his back, as she twisted her grip, chest to back and her small laugh close to his ear. ”Oh I don’t, just enough to get things positioned right…“ this time she went to sweep the leg, her right around his left with a palm to his back and her full force behind it. Nathan felt her press up against him, that laugh close to his ear as she twisted her grip. He was just about to counter when she swept his leg, forcing him to shift his weight to avoid being taken down. ”Not bad,“ he muttered, a slight smirk on his face, catching her wrist to steady himself. ”You’ve got some tricks up your sleeve, but let’s see how well they hold up when I know what’s coming.“
”Probably poorly.“ She smiled as she stepped back around him, coming to stand face to face with him once again. ”Two years with a lot of suspensions hasn’t earned me much actual fight experience.“ She didn’t sound worried or anxious, the same cocky confidence she always had. ”Lucky for me I’m a natural…“ this time she stepped in for a lock up, wanting to size him up more directly.
Nathan’s grin didn’t waver as he braced for her, watching her step in confidently for the lock-up. ”Natural, huh?“ he mused, the hint of a challenge in his eyes. He leaned in, meeting her grip with a solid but controlled force, giving her just enough resistance to feel his strength without overwhelming her.
”Then let’s see what that ‘natural’ can do when she’s up against someone who’s seen it all.“ He smirked, testing her balance, clearly sizing up her instincts as much as her strength.
”Natural.“ She repeated confidently.d She adjusted her balance with each change of pressure he gave, slipping under her arm and his to press her back to his chest now; both of their arms now twisted out in front of her, bringing them across her chest and dropping her other arm to land an elbow back into his sternum, not holding back at all.
Nathan barely had a second to brace himself, her elbow connecting hard enough to jolt him back a step, but he quickly shifted his footing, grinning through the impact. ”Alright, natural, you’re coming in hot,“ he muttered with a chuckle, giving her shoulder a firm squeeze.
Then, with a swift pivot, he manoeuvred behind her, looping one arm around her waist and using his leverage to hold her in place just tight enough to remind her who she was dealing with. ”Not bad, now let’s see if you can handle the next level.“
”I’m always hot…“ The grip of her arm around her waist caught her breath for a second, but she didn’t miss a beat, a smirk on her lips as she shifted on her feet, a stomp to his foot as she lurched forward to try and break his hold, just catching her balance to stay on her feet as she moved forward.
Nathan smirked as she broke free, turning to face her with a hint of admiration in his eyes. ”Always hot, huh?“ He quickly recovered, stepping forward and reaching out to feign a grapple, testing her reflexes. ”Guess we’ll see if that heat’s enough to get you through the long haul.“ He took a playful swipe at her, keeping his movements light but steady, gauging how she handled herself when she was back on the offensive.
She avoided the swipe with ease, the quickness she had on her feet being what made up for her still to be honed skills. ”Yeah… always.“ She grinned and moved around him, not making any move to attack just circling him, her eyes scanning and looking for any weaknesses, her eyes not leaving him as she just circled him.
”Are you doubting my stamina?!“
Nathan smirked, watching her with that hint of challenge in his eyes. ”Doubting your stamina? Not yet,“ he replied, rolling his shoulders and keeping a relaxed stance as he mirrored her circling. ”But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t plan on puttin’ it to the test.“ He let the words hang, just enough to keep her on edge, knowing she’d be anticipating his next move.
She considered acting first, but instead she matched his smirk with one of her own. ”Test me… that’s why I’m here.“ She feigned making a move but then pulled back. Opening her arms just a little more and stopped on the spot. ”Now.. teach me something!“ She challenged him this time, tilting her head as she did.
Nathan smirked, seeing her challenge. Without a word, he seized her, lifting her clean off the ground and driving her down with a hard spinebuster, the impact reverberating through the mat. Before she had a chance to catch her breath, he pinned her down, trapping her arms and leaning his weight just enough to keep her in place, his gaze darkened as he held her there.
”Is this what you were asking for, Charli?“ he said close to her ear in a low tone, testing her resolve.
She had her feet planted on the mat even from the prone position he now had her in, she smiled up at him, even wriggling a little under his weight. ”Yeah.“ She pulled her feet up just a little, getting more steady in her position, knowing she couldn’t just force him off and trying to be ready when he moved.
”This is more like it.“ Not a hint of pain in her tone, as if her body didn’t register it. A mis-wiring she had learned to take advantage of.
Nathan smirked down at her, his hold unyielding. ”That so?“ He leaned in, applying just a bit more pressure to keep her pinned. ”Well, let’s see how much you can handle.“ He shifted his weight, making her struggle beneath him even more challenging. Her wriggling didn’t faze him. If anything, it only fueled his curiosity to test her limits further.
She huffed at the added pressure, almost a bratty sigh as she pushed against him now, trying to slip her hands between their bodies to find some way to alleviate the pressure on her and drew her knees up, lifting her body just slightly on one side to test momentum.
”That’s so.“ She challenged, a grin crossing her lips. ”Daddy Callaghan…“
Nathan leaned in, his smirk widening at her defiance. ”Is it or are you just stroking my ego?“ He tightens his hold just enough to keep her in place, letting her struggle and test the resistance, almost inviting her to find her way out if she could.
He laughed, meeting her gaze with a challenge. ”You’ve got a lot of nerve, don’t you, calling me that. Usually when I’m called that, I’d have you bent over my desk in my office.“
Her eyes stayed locked on him, the tip of her tongue touching her top lip with a challenging, flirtatious expression. And then pulling up the one side she uses the momentum to throw his weight against him, reversing the roles until she’s now on top of him, shifting and placing her knees against his arms, pinning him down with considerably less force than he applied to her, not for a lack of trying.
”Is that what you’re thinking about when you’re in there all day?“
She kept shifting her momentum, applying the pressure across his chest as she straddled him, her feet in at his sides, heels hooked into his ribs.
Nathan’s gaze didn’t waver as she shifted, taking her position over him, he couldn’t help but grin at her and her boldness. ”Is that what I’m thinking about?“ He arched a brow, leaning up just slightly against her hold, testing her own strength.
”Well, now that you mention it, maybe you’ve got me wondering if you can handle more than you let on.“ He tilted his head, his voice dropping lower. ”So, what else you got, Charli? Or are we stopping here?“
Her hands immediately pushed against his chest, forcing him back down to the mat, leaning forward, her knees pressing into his arms, her feet still pressed into his rib cage and she grinned.
”I can handle a lot more than… anyone gives me credit for.“
Nathan’s smirk only deepened as she held him down, feeling the press of her knees and the intensity in her gaze. ”Is that so?“ he wondered, letting her apply the pressure while his hands were resting but ready at his sides. ”Well, I suppose I’ll have to test that for myself, won’t I?“
He gave a slight shift under her, a hint of defiance in his own stance. ”You’ve got my attention, Charli. Question is, how long can you keep it?“
She leaned in more, really applying pressure to his arms, rolling her hips forward to put all of her body weight down on his chest, a smile still on her lips as she pressed back on his challenge with one of her own.
”I’ve had your attention, from the day I tweeted you… I’ve had your attention Nathan, don't deny it.“
She leaned into her knees again, pressing into the tops of his arms, her feet almost under him now and her hands still firm on his chest.
”Now stop holding back and make it hurt.“
Nathan twisted beneath her, using his hips to create momentum as he flipped their positions. He pinned her wrists to the mat, his fingers wrapped firmly around her forearms, his knee pressed into her thigh to immobilise her legs. The weight of his chest bore down against her, his grip firm and unrelenting.
”Still think you can handle this, Charli?“ he challenged, his face close to hers as he looked into her eyes with a new intensity.
Nathan shifted his weight again, pinning her even more intensely. He tightened his hold on her wrists, digging his knee deeper against her thigh to keep her locked in place. His other arm pressed firmly across her collarbone, using his body weight to intensify the pressure on her chest, effectively limiting her movement and testing her resolve.
”Is that what you fucking wanted?“ his voice was low as he leaned in closer, holding her in place, his grip and the force behind each move unyielding.
The movement caught her by surprise, her body hitting the mat hard, his experience showing as he was quick to prevent her movement, taking away the use of her legs. Despite the pain that was just beginning to register, she tilted her head to close a little of the distance between their faces. ”Still handling it-“
Before she could finish what she was saying, she felt the weight of him, the pressure of his body, the veracity behind his knee on her thigh, her chest weighed back to the mat thanks to his arm across her collarbone.
”Is it supposed to hurt yet?“ She couldn’t move and she knew it, her palms flat on the mat but her eyes not leaving his, her gaze full of challenge and defiance.
Nathan’s arm shifted from her collarbone to her neck, his hand pressing firmly just beneath her jaw, adding an intensity that pulsed under his grip. He maintained firm pressure, enough to demand her attention as his knee dug deeper into her thigh, anchoring her to the mat with no room to wriggle free. His gaze bore into hers, and he leaned in close, his voice low.
”Still handling it, are we?“ he challenged, watching her face for any hint of resistance or submission.
His hand on her neck had likely quite an opposite effect, smiling through her now restricted breath control. The sharp pain in her thigh kept her very aware of the control he was so easily able to exert, but even in the face of that her gaze remained defiant.
A sharp intake of breath to open her diaphragm, her hands on the mat turning palm up and she tried to pull them up, attempting some movement in her arms knowing that her body was unable to find any wiggle room at all, but she kept trying anyway.
Nathan watched her reaction, the defiance in her eyes matching the pressure he held over her neck, restricting her breath just enough to feel his control without entirely cutting off her air. His knee dug deeper and sharper into her thigh, keeping her even more grounded, fully aware of the power dynamic he was establishing. Seeing her smile through it all only spurred him on, an amused, intense look in his eyes.
”You’re relentless,“ he said, leaning in just slightly. ”But that’s not going to be enough to get free.“ He shifted his weight subtly, pushing down more firmly, making sure she felt every inch of pressure as her hands pressed helplessly against the mat.
The slight shift he did to add pressure allowed her to put just an inch between her back and the mat, it wasn’t an obvious difference, a shiver of her shoulders as he moved. Her act pressed her throat against his hand tighter, but she focused on that breath control. Her eyes on his as she finally broke just a little, the ache of that knee in her thigh renewed with that shift.
A sharp, pained intake of breath at that pressure, the small gap between her back and the mat allowing her to roll her shoulders back just a little as he leaned into the pressure he was applying, barely wiggle room but just enough to alleviate some of the pressure his body placed on hers.
Even prone, pained and having to focus on her breath to keep it steady, she kept those eyes locked on his, silently daring him to take it that one step further, potentially the one step too far.
Nathan’s gaze darkened as he registered her slight defiance, the shiver of her shoulders as she created that minimal space, pushing against his hand at her throat. His grip tightened just slightly, reinforcing the pressure, testing the fine line between challenge and submission. The dig of his knee into her thigh was unrelenting, a reminder of his control even as she found a fraction of movement.
”You want fucking more? You want pain?“ A darkness began to come over Nathan, one that Charli might even recognize, as it could match her own. He squeezed her throat with all of his power but for only for just a second before he let go and jumped off of her, snapping out of it. He was breathing heavy while on his knees, looking to the side of the room, trying to quell that darkness inside of him.
Her breath caught in her throat as he pressed down, gripping her throat, she could feel his fingers impressing, leaning bruises on her skin as she fought for her next breath, it lasted just long enough for her to witness that darkness in his eyes and then he was off of her.
She laid there for a second, barely long enough to feel the relief as her body was free and she could fill her lungs with ease again. That first breath burned her lungs as she sat up and stared at Nathan for a moment, her eyes studying his body language.
”That’s what I wanted…“ Her tone was soft, the purr of a tone she used when talking to Kian as she pulled up to her knees and crawled forward to where he sat, her face less than an inch from his, her nose brushing against his cheek as she spoke.
”You want us to dominate? To set the standard? Then we… they have to learn how not to hold back… which means you can’t either.“
Nathan held her gaze, the intensity clear as he leaned in close, his voice a low growl. ”Are you sure you want that Nathan Callaghan back? Because once he’s out, there’s no turning back, Charli.“
His fingers tightened subtly at his side, just barely restrained, as he searched her expression for any hesitation. ”You think you can handle it, think you know what it means… but that old version of me? He didn’t hold back for anyone.“ He paused, eyes narrowing. ”Is that really what you want?“
”It’s what we need… all of us.“ She nodded, her eyes flashing with that same shimmer or darkness he held before. Her own tone was still that soft purr, enticing but challenging all at once.
She leaned her head back a little, showing the bruises that were already beginning to form on her throat, tracing a finger along the marks he had left, pressing her nail hard against the skin.
”This. Is how I’m going to survive McKena Hardy when she has nothing left to uphold… the rest of the academy see that break in her today as her giving up: but it’s not. I know that and you know it too… she has nothing left to lose now.“ Her tone stayed low and intense as she dropped her head back down to meet his gaze again.
”Your nieces… Kian… they need this version of you to survive this. I’ve taken them as far as I can right now, willing to give up everything to take a stand as a United front…“ she reached out with one hand and held his jaw, ensuring their gaze stayed locked in. ”But I need you… the real you… to get them the rest of the way there.“
Nathan’s gaze held steady, a dark intensity settling in as he studied Charli’s expression, every flicker of darkness and determination in her eyes. He reached up, his hand covering hers as she held his jaw, their shared energy crackling in the air.
”You’re right,“ he said, his voice low and unwavering. ”If we’re going to make it through this, if they’re going to make it through… they need this side of me. Not the polished leader. The real one, the one willing to do whatever it takes.“
His fingers moved to her wrist, gripping it as he leaned in, holding her gaze. ”You think you can keep up with that, Charli? Because once we start, there’s no turning back. We’re all in.“
”I’ve been all in.“ Her eyes still locked on his, she didn’t move back or try to free her wrist from his grasp, she just offered a small nod, her own gaze matching the intensity of his.
”I want this, more than I’ve ever wanted anything in my life, I want to break people… I want them to squirm and suffer beneath me and I want them to do it because they don’t have any other fucking choice.“ The darkness she had shown at The Division compound swelled behind her gaze as she spoke.
”I came to you, Nathan. I sought you out and I made Damn sure you knew where I wanted to be… so let go and let’s burn the whole thing down around them.“
Nathan’s hands tightened slightly, almost into a fist as he held her gaze, an approving look in his eye. ”Then that’s exactly what we’ll do,“ he said, his voice barely a murmur but charged with dark intent. ”We’re going to turn this place inside out, make them all feel it, feel us. Together.“
He let the moment linger, letting the weight of their pact settle in. Then, with a nod, he added, ”This is only the beginning, Charli. Let’s give them something they won’t ever forget.“
Charli… I don’t want you to get hurt.
Charli had directed Olly to exactly where she would be, the same small training room just off from Nathan’s office where she had been the night before. Mats already down, she leaned against the wall waiting for him. Dressed in her usual training attire of black shorts and a matching sports bra, her long hair tied back and up off her neck.
Her throat bore thick finger shaped bruises across it, smaller bruises littered the side of her neck, down to her shoulder, across her bare flat stomach. Her right thigh also showed off a large, angry bruise the size of a kneecap. She seemed completely unfazed but the marks on her body. Not even making an attempt to cover them.
To her they were a badge of honour, a sign that she was taking her training seriously. She had asked for a no DQ match and as such, she wanted to be prepared for every eventuality.
The sound of shuffling steps snapped her out of her thoughts. Olly had just stepped inside the room, dragging his feet across the floor. His outfit was pretty casual, a pair of consumed blue jeans and a black Division hoodie open on the front, revealing a white wifebeater underneath. He barely acknowledged the student with a nod of his head.
“Rough night?"
He greeted her with a smirk, hinting at the bruises on her body. Their first meeting after their interaction on social media was just as Charli would be expecting. That sarcastic, almost caustic tone of voice, always toeing the line between playful mockery and passive-aggression. He was hard to read, she heard that about him. But ever since his starting making waves in the MWE Academy he was known for his unique approach to the business. That was what she was looking for when she first reached out to him, that was also why she had no doubt he would accept this meeting that, if you think about it, makes no sense at all. She was scheduled to fight against his fellow trainer, fellow Division member and one of the few friends he has. Why would he accept to prepare her for it?
He took the hoodie off and tossed it on the floor without the slightest care. His hair was the usual mess of curls, a tad too long perhaps. He always wore that scruffy look, but he looked more tired than the usual. Sure, he had just come back from a match across the country, but the feeling she got by just looking at him and hearing his warid voice was that his nomadic lifestyle was starting to take a toll on him.
“I'm ready to go when you are."
”Looks like I’m not the only one who’s had a rough night.“ Her tone was the soft, defiant tone it always was. Despite appearances she always carried that old money air about her, a dignified confidence that was a juxtaposition to the mouthy way she presented herself on social media.
Her eyes scanned over Olly, she took on the just too dishevelled look he had, the distant exhaustion that made his movements a little heavier. It made her curious, with the reputation he had she had expected someone colder, instead he seemed… interested. The concept wasn’t new to her, she was used to confusing people with her presence and so was he, but this slight change to his demeanour wasn’t going to see her get comfortable.
”I asked Nate not to hold back. I’m asking the same of you, I get that we’re trainees, but I can take it.“ She lifted a hand to poke at the obvious choking mark around her throat. ”I know this isn’t exactly your speed but…“ she stepped onto the mat, her own movements slightly slower than they were the night before. ”I’m sure you’re more than capable of hurting me in your own way.“
For a brief moment, that devious smirk he was famous for appeared on his face.
Nathan. I should've known this was his doing. I just hope he didn't ask you to say 'Choke me, daddy' as he squeezed your neck."
He seemed in no rush of joining her on the mat. His movements were consciously slow, likely part of his mind games routine, or just to undermine her sense of confidence even further. "And don't worry, if I planned on holding back, I would be sitting on my couch in the Division Mansion now with a cold one in my hand."
Finally he stepped on the mat, taking two short steps to close in with Charli... And immediately headbutted her on the bridge of her nose.
She caught the smirk and shrugged a little, keeping her muscles warm as she remained reactionary, the same soft but intent tone as she spoke.
”Nobody has ever been able to make me do anything…“ she smirked now, her voice dropping to a low purr. ”I did call him Daddy Callaghan but that was before the choking started.“
She had slipped into the easy flirting game she usually played, she didn’t have a call on him yet to do more than that and she was well aware of the effect that she had on people, still in that aware but playful stance she barely had time to react to the sudden movement he made. Just managing to put enough space to prevent a break, but not enough to stop the sharp pain that shot through her head from his strike.
Even as blood trickled from her nose and her eyes watered from the shot to her nose, she didn’t make any verbal acknowledgment of the pain. She seemed to absorb the pain of it instead, two slow steps back and her hand picking the bridge of her nose to stop the bleeding.
”I assume Daddy isn’t your preferred pet name then?“ Even as she pushed her way through that sharp pain she couldn’t help but challenge him.
I hate it, just like I hated him. "
He replied with a chuckle, honestly amused. He actually liked her attitude, the defiance she was committing to even in a moment of difficulty. She was similar to him in that aspect, using that bravado, that arrogance to hide the struggles, attack as a defence mechanism.
Your fight starts the moment you enter the building, Charli, not when the bell rings. Stay sharp, always. Never lower your guard." He dropped that advice almost casually as he began to circle around her. Come on, girl. You were the most sought after recruit before the sorting, they all wanted you. Show me why."
”Noted.“ Her tone was that same low voice, but she was taking it in. She was absorbing everything that he said and even the way he moved. Once the bleeding finally stopped. She turned to keep her eye on him, as he circled her. His words tugged a smile at her lips, she knew why. And whilst the others might argue it was how loud she chose to be… she knew the truth.
Her history at her last wrestling school and her eventual expulsion showed a willingness and drive that the others simply didn’t have; that didn’t help her in this moment though - her body was slower than usual thanks to her training with Nathan the night before. She was intrigued by his hatred of the man, it was deep and seared in.
A quick move as she stepped to the side to sweep a leg, grabbing for his wrist at the same time. She couldn’t move as fast as she wanted to, the bruise on her thigh down to the bone and searing pain up and down her leg.
It was clear that she was far from 100%, whatever Nathan put her through was deeply affecting her performance. But he wasn't cutting her any slack for it, she asked him not to hold back and he wouldn't. He countered her takedown attempt with a stiff knee to the head. Charli barely had time to turn her face as she braced for the inevitable impact, avoiding getting hit once again on the nose. The blow was enough to knock her down, leaving her rattled and needing a moment to regroup.
Can't be just for the attitude, right? You're not the first mean girl to enter a wrestling school, you won't be the last. Or the best, either. " He taunted her, pushing her on her back with his foot. So, what is it?" The sole of his dirty boot hovering over her face was all she could see. She knew what was coming next, she knew he wouldn't hesitate to stomp her. She only had a small window of time for her to react, despite the pain coursing through her sore body
His words didn’t register this time, she felt the way he knocked her down with his foot, the way it was far too easy to take that boot to her thanks to slowed reaction times and something in her switched, a darkness clouded her eyes right as that boot came down and she moved, rolling to the side and up on her knees at a speed that shouldn’t be possible even at full health.
Once again she pulled from that place where pain drove her, using her exceptional speed and agility to grab that foot and roll his leg at the ankle, taking her shoulder in at the back of his knee and using his own weight against him, paired with the way she could turn his balance thanks to being on one leg; using this perfect symphony of skill and luck to bring him crashing down to the mat.
She didn’t say a single word, already letting go of his angle and getting back up to her feet, putting space between them so she could catch her breath, her body shaking with the pain she chose to ignore.
Olly snickered, immediately pushing himself up. He was surprised by that reaction, one he tried in every way to get out of her but definitely wasn't expecting to be that fast and effective. Still, he did a perfect job at hiding that behind that sneer.
He didn't speak this time, no word of advice for the young trainee, no snipes to light that fire inside her. He moved toward her, swinging the right hand. Perhaps a bit too telegraphed, and Charli had no issues dodging it. More came after that, but the girl's quick reflexes kept her out of harm's way. One doubt suddenly crossed her mind. Was he just playing with her? Were his strikes intentionally slow? She watched some of his matches, she knew he could do better than this. Was he just as tired as she was from last night's fatigues?
She only had two options and one was to continue playing his game and wait to find out what was coming and the other was to be proactive. And so she dropped her shoulder and dove forward, this time she took the both of them to the mat, his fall cushioning hers some but not quite enough, her quick movement knocking the win out of herself.
She faltered, having to catch a breath and not being able to follow up on the quick thinking, as she rolled to the side and laid on her back she slapped the mat hard with obvious annoyance. Her tone was harsher as her words came out with the painful exhale.
”FUCK!“
THUD!
She didn't see it coming, not now that it became abundantly clear that she wasn't in condition to continue. The kick that hit her on the side almost lifted her off the ground, a sharp pain coming from her ribs already bruised from the night before, turning her vision dark. It all happened so fast, she felt him picking her up from the floor and loaded her onto his shoulders in the fireman's carry position. This was it, he was about to hit her with his Born 2 Lose. As the realisation that perhaps this wasn't the brightest idea after all began to seep in, she made peace with the fact that she was about to get hit, and there was nothing she could do about it.
He was taking his time, teasing and taunting her furthermore, aware that right now she was helpless. He spun around, she could feel him move and her own body getting shifted. She closed her eyes, accepting her fate. But the knee didn't connect to her face, that pain she was ready to embrace never came. Instead, she found herself sitting on a bench.
You good?"
Olly's voice came to her ears, strangely calm. A stark contrast with the fury he displayed only moments ago. As her eyes opened, he was standing in front of her. In his hand, he had a water bottle. Without warning Charli, he threw it at her.
She just about caught that water bottle, the bench felt oddly non existent even as she was sitting on it, leaning her elbows to her knees and letting out a slow, near silent sigh. Her chin to her chest, she didn’t even look up at him at first. She stayed silent, the wordless pause stretched out between them as she tried to figure out why he stopped… she didn’t expect him to and she certainly wouldn’t have asked him to.
She didn’t know when to quit.
But apparently he did, finally, slowly she opened that bottle of water and took a sip, it tasted like blood and bile as her body screamed at her; pain radiating from her ribs where he had landed that kick. But she swallowed the water down and took another big gulp, before screwing the lid back on and fighting against the instinct in her body to swallow that second gulp down even when it felt like she was drowning.
”Yeah.“ She lied. Finally looking up at him and tilting her head off to one side. ”No.“
Leaning back against the wall behind the bench she half closed her eyes and took another deep breath, she felt it this time. New pains mingling with the old ones, the punishment she was putting her body through was preparation. Even when the injuries slowed her down, she was learning. And wasn’t that what she was there to do?
”I can’t control it. Not yet.“ It wasn’t clear if she was talking to him or herself, but her statement hung between them all the same.
You'll learn.” He replied, calm and secure. You'll have to, or it will be your ruin."
Pacing the room, Olly reached for his hoodie and put it on. Fishing inside the front pocket he pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter. He rested it between his lips and lit it up, taking a moment to stare at the flame dancing in front of him, almost entranced.
There are some fights you just can't win, Charli. Tonight was one of those." He kept some distance from her, in case his smoking would bother her. The kind of courtesy you wouldn't expect from the brash wrestler. And no matter what that voice inside you says, there's no point in fighting a battle you can't win."
He was speaking slowly, taking long drags of his cigarette between sentences, blowing puffs of smoke in front of him. Learn your limits, learn what you can and can't do. That's the only way you can tell whether you have an actual chance or you're just walking to the gallows."
A long pause followed his words, as if he wanted to let those words sink in to the young trainee. You wanted me to give you some advice to win your match against Mac... You can't. " Blunt, honest. That was Olly to her.
She watched him, her eyes trained on him as she slid one hand to hold her ribs, the familiar dull pain of somewhat serious damage ached through her body as she watched him. Listening to him speak, it occurred to her that he in fact, didn’t quite have the… as some described it, death wish, that she did. Most people didn’t and she shouldn’t have been shocked, but she was just because of who he was.
”Not to beat her.“ She shook her head slowly, her breathing was measured and slow, but she didn’t let the pain show on her face as she spoke. ”I know I can’t beat her, I never expected to… I want to make this hard for her.“ That sake darkness flickered in her eyes, she leaned forward a little and grabbed up that bottle of water, taking a couple more mouthfuls before closing her eyes, shutting out everything in the room.
”I want to hurt her. I want her to remember me…“ she smiled, opening her eyes again and meeting his with a steel glare. ”Of course I want to be the best, but there’s more to that than winning a match.“
Hearing those words put a smile on his face. That's true."
The pleased expression only lasted a flickering moment before his expression shifted back to the usual stern and cold demeanor. He tossed the cigarette on the floor, not caring if he was on Callaghan's turf. Actually, he probably did it on purpose, an act of defiance toward the Southie leader.
Just remember what I told you, learn to choose your fights. I'd hate to come back here to repeat the lesson."
Halfway between a threat and a friendly advice, his words echoed as the sound of his footsteps faded in the distance.
- - - -
I think I might have cracked a rib so I gotta get it strapped and then I’ll be good to go… later tonight?
What the fuck are you doing kid
How am I supposed to figure out what’s too far if I don’t get there before the match?
You figure that out with someone who isn’t Olly
Too late for that. I told him not to hold back…
[/font]