I smiled.
“A little.”
He laughed.
“What belt?”
I shook my head.
“I don't really focus on that.”
That answer confused him.
Most people wanted to tell him their achievements.
Their rank.
Their victories.
I didn't.
“You should come to the studio sometime.”
I looked at him.
“Why?”
“I want to see what you can do.”
I smiled.
“I’m not looking for competition.”
He laughed.
“Neither am I.”
But I knew that wasn't true.
A few days later, I visited the private training studio.
It was impressive.
Expensive equipment.
Professional mats.
Trophy displays.
Photos of Alexander winning competitions.
Everything showed one message:
Alexander Reed was a champion.
He walked toward me wearing training gear.
“You came.”
“Yes.”
“Good.”
Several other students were there.
They immediately gathered around.