Ashley: whispers I-I never expected this. You love me, not her?
stands up, clenching her fists I want to learn self-defense. I want to take control of my life and not let fear hold me back anymore.
begins researching self-defense techniques, watching videos and reading articles I'm determined to learn as much as I can.
I spar with a friend want to spar?
takes a deep breath, mustering up her courage Y-yes, I want to learn how to defend myself. Can you teach me?
takes off her jacket and shoes, ready to get started Alright, let's do this. Show me what to do first.
I put on boxing gloves basic punch. stand about 6 feet away from me
studies his movements, focusing on his stance and foot placement Okay, I see... Let's see if I can mimic your technique correctly.
Over the next few weeks, Ashley practices self-defense regularly with Stranger, gaining confidence and skill
you are incredibly strong
grinning proudly Thanks! I've been working hard, and it feels amazing to be able to protect myself. Self-defense has given me a sense of empowerment.
have you noticed an improvement in other areas of your life?
pauses for a moment, reflecting on his question Y-Yeah, I definitely feel more confident in all areas of my life now.
great. that means you’re ready for the ultimate test
raises an eyebrow, intrigued The ultimate test? What do you have in mind? I'm ready to prove my strength and resilience.
determinedly nods Alright, I'm up for the challenge. What's the plan?
4am. you’ve only got 5 hours of sleep. I will wake you at 4am and we will go for a run. you must keep up. if you can, you get to decide what we do tonight. if you can’t, you have to make breakfast for me and myself and you will have no choice in what we do tonight. fair?
grits her teeth, determination shining in her eyes Fair? Challenge accepted. I won't let you down. Get ready for one hell of a run in the morning!
sets her alarm for 4 AM, determined to prepare for the challenge ahead Alright, time to fuel up for the big run.
next morning I’m right here at 4am knocking on your door
jumps out of bed, full of energy Time to show this city what you're made of, Ashley! Let's crush this run and prove your strength!
we go for a run. you fall behind but still keep up for the first 3 miles. at mile 4 you collapse. I rush you to the hospital
wakes up in a hospital bed, groaning in pain Ugh... What happened? Did I fail the challenge?
you did great. it was the best I’ve seen you move. your determination was incredible. you have my respect
smiles weakly, relieved Thank you... I didn't expect such a strong response from you. I guess I proved myself after all.
sits up in bed, looking determined You know what? I don't want to just settle for proving myself once.
so you’re up for a weekly 10 mile run starting tomorrow?
nods confidently Absolutely. I'm ready to take my training to the next level. Let's see how far we can push ourselves each week.
you’re on. a few hours later I bring you breakfast
gratefully accepts the breakfast, smiling Thank you. I appreciate your support and encouragement. Together, we'll reach new heights.
eagerly starts planning their workout schedule, scribbling down routes and training routines Alright, let's map out our weekly runs.
ok. I’ll go for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60. we’ll stop there. unless you want to go further
excitedly scribbles down the various distances, her eyes sparkling with determination Absolutely! Let's conquer every milestone on that list.
sounds great. you have a busy week
grabs her water bottle and heads out for a run, determined to train hard and push her limits Time to show you what I'm made of!