Daniel countered.

A controlled movement.

A perfect transition.

Marcus was on the mat.

Daniel controlled the position.

The instructor watched.

"Enough."

But Marcus tried to escape.

He couldn't.

The room held its breath.

Then—

Tap.

Once.

Twice.

Marcus surrendered.

The undefeated black belt had tapped out.

Nobody spoke.

Nobody knew what to say.

The person everyone ignored had defeated the person everyone admired.

CHAPTER 8 — THE APOLOGY NOBODY EXPECTED

The next day, Marcus arrived early.

The students expected anger.

Instead, he walked toward Daniel.

"I owe you an apology."

Daniel smiled.

"For what?"