Ethan put his on.
David refused.
“You don’t need them?”
“No.”
Ethan laughed.
“You sure?”
“Yes.”
The neighbors laughed.
They thought David was being brave.
They didn't realize he was being calm.
The timer started.
Five seconds.
Ten seconds.
Ethan waited.
David didn't move.
He simply stood there.
Relaxed.
Balanced.
Watching.
Then Ethan attacked.
Fast.
A combination that usually overwhelmed opponents.
But David stepped aside.
The first punch missed.
Then the second.
The third never reached him.
The laughter stopped.
Ethan looked confused.
He attacked again.
Harder.
Faster.
A kick.