Ash stood beside her "You know," he said casually, "I'm beginning to worry that you invited me for this session just so you could punch me."
Odette shrugged as if considering the possibility. "Not true. I was also planning to kick you."
"Ah, so it was on the schedule."
"Only as an option."
Ash chuckled, patting her shoulder as they reached the open mat area. "Well then, option accepted."
They both stepped onto the track, stretching lightly. The familiar sense of routine falling between them.
They took off running together. Slow and steady. Just a warm up. the jog ended quickly, with both of them feeling loosened up.
"Three rounds," Ash said. "Full magic. No energy draining. And no complaining when you lose one."
"Three wins for me," Odette smirked. "Take a breath, old man. You're about to get embarrassed."
"Sweetheart," he replied warmly, "I raised you. If you embarrass me, I'll simply claim credit."
