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Love and Kickboxing (Grave x EveningSky)

True Grave

True Grave

Make The Wrong Things Right
Joined
Jun 30, 2010
Location
Where The Fight Takes Me
Brandon Hargrave had a most unusual life for a twenty-one year old. For the past year, he had the distinction of being the World Middleweight Kickboxing Champion, a goal he had been working toward since he was seven years old. This kind of life meant that he spent much more time in training than socializing like other young people his age, and he had learned to get along pretty well on his own due to that. The night out on the town was rare, and due to his training and responsibility, alcohol was out of the question. He was a native of Manhattan, New York and thought that he would spend the rest of his life in that city. That was, until an incident that happened just a month earlier.

In the early days of Boxing, it was not uncommon for the Mafia to be involved. Illegal sports betting, fixing fights. and roughing up contenders was just a part of life. While times and policy had changed to pretty much push the Mob out of sports, they still tried to influence fights within Boxing, Kickboxing, and MMA. Shortly after becoming World Champion, a small Mob family known as the Perettis approached him and wanted him to take a fall. Brandon refused, but the Peretti representative let him know that he had better do it or else. Needless to say, Brandon did not comply with their demands and won his next fight.

The next day, around 7 AM, a Peretti legbreaker broke into his apartment with a tire iron and the express purpose of ending his career. Brandon defended himself, and in the process, the legbreaker took a headkick that sent him tumbling down the stairs. The fall broke his neck and killed him, a complete accident in the course of self-defense. However, killing this Mob peon meant that they would now be coming after his life, leaving Brandon and his manager no choice but to flee the city. They had ended up in San Jose, California, where Brandon was staying in a new place under an assumed name. For safety purposes, he carried no cell phone and kept out of sight as much as possible.

However, Brandon needed to better his life, and that meant going to college. He enrolled in San Jose State University under the same assumed name, although the right people at the college were aware of his real name and situation. His classes started soon after that, and it was a sunny California day as he walked into the college, his wavy brown hair rustling in the slight breeze his walking generated while his opaline green eyes took in everything around him. Brandon was not an easy person to miss, standing tall at 6'2" with a muscular build, and he drew a few stares from the girls he passed by. When he entered the classroom, he sat in the back and waited quietly for the class to begin. For right now, it was in his best interest to draw as little attention to himself as possible.
 
"Just listen to me!"

Vanessa Vasselli bolted down the large white corridors of San Jose's State university. A place she had been attending for a year, currently going through a break up that lasted nine months.

"Vanessa..." Her sad excuse of an ex boyfriend begged "Please"

The doors of Mr Horowitz class came into view among the sea of students, Vanessa grinned, thanking the man up above. Her happiness however was short lived when the scumbag held onto her satchel strap, tugging the short brunette back into his hard chest.

"You So-" the failed sentence had been interrupted by a pair of familiar lips of hers. Vanessa shoved Mark with all her might. "What the hell are you doing?"

It had been safe to assume the quarreling pair attracted many eyes with their outbursts. "Its called a kiss" Mark smiled like a douchbag.

"You can't kiss me"

"I'm not breaking up with you"

Vanessa nodded "I'm breaking up with you"

"Nessa it was just one freaking night, it won't happen again"

"I don't really care...and I don't want to be hurt anymore...so just leave me alone. We lasted a year, but I'm sorry I couldn't ride you like Steph"

Mark clamped a hand over his annoying ex girlfriend's mouth "The fuck you trying to do"

Vanessa mumbled her words, unable to form a coherent sentence. Mark released his hand, still holding her my the pink strap of her satchel. "This isn't over" he whispered

"It is...because..."

"Becaue what?" Mark muttered dangerously

Her eyes blinked, eyeballs moving frantically as she tried to come up with an explanation. "Because I'm seeing someone"

Ha! Got you she thought when Mark became visibly stunned. Her words causing the blonde haired blue eyed footballer to step back, hurt evident in his eyes. Vanessa frowned at his reaction before stepping back, Mark releasing her with ease. The raven haired beauty spun on her heels and crossed the few feet toward the classroom door, gripping the silver handle, turning it quickly as she stepped in. Mark Bassett still hot on her heels.


Vanessa spotted a guy sitting far off in the back. Odd, but he would do for what she needed to accomplish.

"Hey!" She smiled brightly, practically flying up the middle aisle toward the stranger. Acting like she knew him Vanessa placed her bag onto the desk near his, placing her bottom in the seat. "Sorry I'm late" she leaned over bringing her lips to his in a quick peck.

In the year Vanessa and Mark dated she gave the footballer no reason to be jealous or possessive. Vanessa Vasselli had an inkling she was in for a rude awakening as her ex boyfriend stood in the doorway, eyes piercing into her skull and the boy sitting next to her.
 
Brandon looked toward the door as he heard the sounds of an argument going on outside the classroom door. He couldn't make out many of the words, but it sounded like a couple going through a break-up and one not taking it very well. When the young woman entered the room, he had to admit that she was quite cute. The short brunette moved with surprising quickness up the middle aisle, calling out to him and making a beeline for the desk right next to him. She sat down in it and apologized for being late, leaving Brandon very confused.
"What are you-"

His question was cut off as the cute brunette gave him a short kiss on the lips. Visibly stunned, Brandon just sat there for a minute with a wide-eyed look on his face. Everyone in the class was staring at them, but they looked away when Brandon noticed. Brandon noticed the muscular young man in the doorway glaring daggers at them, and sighed as he realized that he had just been used to make this young woman's ex-boyfriend jealous.
Great...My first day here and I've already made an enemy.
It was then that the professor, Mr. Horowitz, appeared in the doorway.

"I don't believe you're in this class, Mark. You should get to your own class before you're really late."
Mark nodded at the professor before turning back to Vanessa. Still glaring hard at her, he mouthed the words "This isn't over" before leaving the doorway and heading down the hall. Professor Horowitz made his way to the front of the room and began to take role. Brandon answered when his name was called, as the assumed name was only on the public roster and not the professor's actual class sheet.

Brandon looked out the corner of his eye and shook his head with a smile at the young woman's antics. He had learned from the role call that her name was Vanessa Vasselli, an interesting name for an interesting woman. He had expected his college day would be a rather dull affair, but she had certainly livened things up. It seemed that his life was full of surprises lately. As the class began, he opened his book and went over the syllabus that was passed out. He stayed quiet and listened well as the class on what would be expected for the semester went on.
 
Mark's parting words left an odd chill in his ex girlfriend. One that the bubbly brunette could not quite shake the feeling of. What did he mean by it exactly, how long did they have to go on like this. Mark trying to change her mind and Vanessa sticking it to him every single time. Did the boy just not get it, Vanessa Vasselli was never going to change her mind about a cheater. It was not in her nature to forgive easily, and she hated that about herself. Such a trait reminded Vanessa everyday of where she came from. Who her father was, and the life that she had been trying to escape. Despite the constant reminder, trying to be more like her bubbly mother kept the brunette sane.


When Mr Horowitz started his roll call. Vanessa's eyes widened as if suddenly aware of the fact that she had just kissed a complete stranger. Putting the poor soul in the middle of her lengthy and tiring breakup. Before an apology could be issued the guy whom Mr Horowitz referred to as Brandon Hargave opened his notebook, an actual notebook. Vanessa smiled, How cute. The apology would have to wait, she collected her belongings and moved a few rows down.

Feeling bad about the situation hadn't lasted long, because after an hour Mr Horowitz had been wrapping up his lecture on the "Pros and Cons of Online Marketing". Students lingered in the classroom, some chatting up the dearly beloved Mr Horowitz, quite a handsome man in his late forties. Others were busy doing whatever it is that needed doing before that next class, hands typing furiously at their laptops.

Vanessa, despite having a paper to send closed her laptop and slid it into her pink satchel. Carefully and with much shame the brunette made her way up the middle aisle for the second time Dont trip, don't trip, don't trip.

"Hi..." she muttered with a tight smile. Unable to meet the eyes of the man. "I don't know how to say it" Vanessa lifted her gaze to his chin
"I'm really sorry....you know...about earlier..."Guilt flooded her soul like a disease and she met the gaze of Brandon Hargave.

"I'm not usually the type of person to do that, I'm really sorry." Her hands came up to gently tuck a stray curl behind her ear "If Mark...my ex ever gives you any trouble just let me know. He can be...difficult at times. Oh ! Forgot introduce myself " She rambled "I'm Vanessa" This time when the dark haired beauty smiled It was genuine. The simple act brightened her face, highlighting her chocolate brown eyes and rosy cheeks.
 
Brandon watched as Mark mouthed a threat to her before leaving. It was clear that this guy was not about to let this go, and he expected an angry confrontation in the near future. Vanessa moved down a few rows, clear self-conscious about the whole affair. Brandon brushed off the affair and focused on the class, which was rather boring but something required for a Generals Degree. It was clear that he had the least tech in the classroom, being one of the few to use a paper notebook instead of a laptop, but that was another way of avoiding the Peretti dragnet. He did not have a laptop for the same reason that he did not have a cell phone, and aside from that, the PC back at his apartment would work well enough for college purposes.

After the class ended, Brandon gathered up his things and prepared to leave the classroom. He would be defending his title tonight at the Red Rock Casino Resort Spa in Las Vegas, so he would have to hurry home in order to make the flight in time. However, before he could, Vanessa approached him and apologized for earlier. She seemed genuinely remorseful about it, and even though she wouldn't look him in the eyes at first, he smiled.
"It's fine. Don't worry about it."

She then told him to let her know if her ex, Mark, gave him any trouble. He thought that was sweet of her to say, but he doubted she could really do anything about it. Brandon would have to take care of it on his own, preferably without violence. She gave him a smile as she introduced herself, and her whole face seemed to light up. It was easy to see why Mark did not want to let her go, she was so beautiful and sweet.
"I'm Brandon, nice to meet you."

He checked his watch, seeing that he needed to be home so that he and his manager could make it to the airport.
"I really have to go. It was nice meeting you, Vanessa."
He rushed out of the classroom and speed-walked down the hall and out the door. Brandon made his way to the front parking lot, where he found his vehicle, a mid-size Chevy, and got in to head back home. When he got home, his manager was waiting outside with their luggage.

His manager climbed in and they were headed for the airport. Along the way, he did the usual manager pep talk and gave him tips he had heard a million times before. They parked in the airport parking lot and made their way to the gate with tickets in hand. Once on the plane, they stowed their luggage and took their seats. The flight to Las Vegas would put them there in the evening, leaving them an hour to get to the Red Rock and settled in before the event started. There would be six fights on the card, with Brandon defending his belt in the Main Event, so he settled back to get some rest as the plane ascended into the air.
 
Brandon Hargrave all but ran from the classroom, Vanessa couldn't help but wonder if she said something to offend. Deciding to ask, she quickly collected her things and followed the stranger out, furrowing her brows as she watched his silhouette move swiftly out of the halls.
Vanessa slightly raised her arm, covertly sniffing to see if she smelled foul in anyway.I smell like vanilla The brunette could not possibly think of any other reason, why such a guy would head for the hills after a brief conversation.

Vanessa shrugged her shoulder and returned to campus life. Her schedule kept her free till the last class that evening. Which meant that meeting up with friends came next in Vanessa's book. A huge smile graced the brunettes face when she spotted her squad by their usual table. Every single one if her girls and their boyfriend's. The absence of Mark stirred the memory from earlier and instinctively Vanessa scanned the large cafeteria for the arrogant jock. He, however, was no where to be seen.

Probably shagging someone in a broom closet

Vanessa snorted "Typical..."

"What took you so long?" Megan, the blonde of the group asked.

"Stopped by the library to finish up some papers" She lied

I was with my father...


Vanessa Vasselli may have been the bubbly happy girl to many on campus, but she was no bubbly fool. Telling anyone about her reality would mean putting herself up for ultimate scrutiny, social suicide she called it. Being five hours, and twelve minutes away from home meant that no one knew of her father. It had not occurred to her friends that Vanessa Vasselli was a rich girl, a girl with dangerous connections.

The occasional vists from her father had been unwarranted-but Victor Vasselli could not be swayed. His concern for Vanessa made him a frequent flyer to San Jose. Bringing money that his daughter did not like, money that she donated to charities without his knowledge. There was no part of her father's life that Vanessa Vasselli did not hate.


"Heard you made out with someone in Horowitz class" Samantha winked

Rumours

"We didn't make out...I gave him a small peck...it was nothing to talk about"

Samantha smiled "But they're all talking...Vanessa kissed the new boy"

Vanessa reached over to her friend's tray, taking her half eaten chicken sandwich. Allowing herself a nice big bite.

"Brandon Hargrave is it?" Melanie asked typing away at her laptop

"Yeah...strange one" Vanessa quipped

"Well no shit" Melanie turned her laptop toward her friends, their boyfriend's showing more interest in Melanie's findings.

"So?" Vanessa shrugged

"What do you mean so? He's a fucking kickboxer...a champion" Paul chuckled

The girl's nodded uninterestingly. However, that same night...Vanessa sat in the darkness of her dorm room, googling the mysterious stranger. Watching videos of his many victories, soaking in just how amazing her classmate was in the ring. A stark contrast to the simple boy she kissed. Then again, she knew nothing about Brandon Hargave.

Vanessa Vasselli spent hours looking up every website that provided anything Brandon Hargrave related. Reading facts and fiction alike, the man himself-she realised...was a real superstar in his arena.

"Live broadcast..." she muttered moving her index finger across the smooth surface of her laptop, tapping lightly, the link instantly taking her to a page that buffered within minutes. Vanessa was now a spectator among many of a match that was occurring in Las Vegas. The realisation sent a chuckle flowing through, her roommate shooting a dirty look across the black room. Vanessa cared not for what she didn't see. Angela however could see the small smile playing on Vanessa's lips as she stared at her laptop screen, the light from such a small device illuminating Vanessa's face.
 
When Brandon and his manager arrived at the Las Vegas International Airport, they were immediately hustled toward a car that would take them to the Red Rock. News of his impending arrival had traveled fast, and many of his fans were gathered at the gates, cheering, chanting, and waving signs as he stepped off the plane.
"Your fan club has arrived early," his manager quipped.
Brandon smirked at his manager's remark and waved with a bright smile toward his fans. Even though he was effectively the face of Kickboxing right now, he still retained his humility and never flaunted his status in front of others. He was just a good, genuine person, and that made people flock to him like nobody's business.

Brandon and his manager were soon in the car and being driven to the Red Rock. His manager got on the phone and made last minute checks on what room he would be using there, how much he would be paid, and the return flight to San Jose. Brandon looked out the window as the bright lights of Sin City passed by, remembering how amazed he had been by the glitz and the glamour the first time, even being from New York City. When they arrived at the Red Rock, he waved to more fans and followed his manager into the building, where they were escorted to a small locker room that he would be using to train in and wait for his match. His manager immediately began giving him the lowdown on his opponent, particularly his stance and what kind of striking techniques he used most often. Brandon had already memorized it all from previous coaching, but he let his manager go through the spiel because it was his job and he would be ill-advised to not listen to him.

At precisely 7:00, the Global Kickboxing Group began their latest event, called GKG 128. The main event would be Brandon defending his World Middleweight Title against his latest challenger, Glover Kennedy. The Red Rock was completely packed for this event, everyone wanting to see if the Kickboxing wunderkind could hold on to his belt. Of course, there would be five other fights before that, so the fans would have to be patient. Thankfully, Kickboxing was not like MMA in which matches could turn into lengthy wrestling wars, so most of the fights were settled within two or three rounds by knockout or technical knockout, meaning that the opponent did not get up before the referee had fully counted to ten. At 8:30, it was time for the main event.

Brandon received the word from a Red Rock employee, and it was time to get suited up and go out there. Kickboxing rules stated that all competitors had to wear the standard eight ounce gloves for Boxing as well as special shoes to protect the feet. Brandon was wearing black shorts with blue stripes on them, and his gloves and shoes were red, making for a unique color combination. He put on his blue robe with hood that said "Hargrave" on the back, and was ready to enter the ring.
"Now, remember kid, don't take this guy lightly. He's been fighting for longer than you have and has a real hunger for the belt, so don't let your guard down."

Brandon nodded, taking his advice to heart, and they began heading for the ring. Because the robe covered his whole body, Brandon's manager had the leather with gold pieces championship belt slung over his shoulder, carrying it proudly. Glover had already made his entrance and was standing in the ring. As Brandon and his manager jogged from the runway to the roped ring, the crowd went absolutely wild. There was a loud chant of "Brandon, Brandon, Brandon!" sweeping through the crowd, and the champion acknowledged his fans with a wave. The love and support he got from his fans never failed to lift his spirits and inspire him to be a great fighter, and he smiled broadly as he entered the ring and went to his designated corner.

Once both fighters were in place, a microphone lowered from the ceiling into the center of the ring and the announcer for the event took it into his hand.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the Global Kickboxing Group is proud to present to you this main event fight. We will have ten rounds for the Middleweight Championship of the world."
He then gestured to Kennedy.
"Introducing first, the challenger, fighting out of the blue corner. Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, standing at 5'11", and weighing in at 160 lbs, this man has sixty wins, forty-five by knockout and fifteen by TKO. Glover "The Eliminator" Kennedy!!!"
Glover raised his arms and walked around in a circle as some people cheered and others booed."

The announcer then moved his hand over to Brandon.
"And now, fighting out of the red corner. Hailing from Manhattan, New York, standing at 6"2" and weighing in at 160 lbs, this man has thirty wins, all of them by knockout. Ladies and gentlemen, he is the reigning, defending GKG Middleweight Champion of the world, here tonight to defend his title for the tenth time! Brandon...HARGRAVE!!!"
The crowd went absolutely nuts, the entire stadium seeming to erupt in cheers as Brandon acknowledged the crowd by raising his arms and smiling.

After the cheering died down, the referee moved to the center of the ring and indicated that Brandon and Glover were to join him. Both fighters and their respective managers complied, with both fighters staring each other down while the ref stood between them.
"Alright guys, you know the drill. I want a good, clean fight. When I say "break", move back to your corner. Do you have any questions?"
Both fighters shook their heads.

"Alright, touch gloves to make the fight official."
As both fighters respectfully touched gloves, Glover smiled.
"Best of luck, champ."
"Don't need luck when I got skill, Kennedy."
They moved back to their corners and their managers gave them hurried, last-minute advice. The bell then rang to signify the beginning of the fight.

"Go get 'em, Brandon," his manager said.
Brandon nodded and got into a boxing stance, moving toward his opponent. Kennedy went on the offensive right away, throwing quick jabs that he was easily able to dodge. He saw an opening and nailed Kennedy with a roundhouse kick to the unguarded left side, and then nailed him with a right hook to the nose while he was distracted. Kennedy took the blows and moved in to tag him with a short uppercut. For the rest of the round, the two traded blows, with Brandon getting the better of his opponent.

At the start of the second round, Brandon had a good idea of his opponent's fighting style. He was able to telegraph his moves and counter them. However, Kennedy was experienced enough to see what was happening and changed up his stance and strategy. Brandon was able to defend himself well, but he still took a right head kick that bloodied his lip. Both fighters were bleeding, but neither was going to back down. The second round ended as a tie.

The third round saw a much more determined Brandon, who came out with more intricate combinations. He tagged Glover several times, although the seasoned fighter weathered the blows. After a few hooks, Brandon landed a spinning roundhouse kick on Glover that knocked him to the canvas. The ref moved in quickly and began the ten count, reaching five before his opponent was back on his feet. Glover came back with a vengeance, landing a few more hits on him, and the round ended. Brandon went back to his corner, where his manager wiped away the blood and got water.

"You're doing great, Brandon. Glover's about to go down from all the work you've done. Go out there and finish it."
Brandon nodded and then stood up to begin the fourth round. They closed again and both threw aggressive strikes. Brandon was good at dodging and reflecting most of the blows, but he still took a few punches and kicks.

Brandon turned up the heat in the middle of the round, throwing long combinations that moved up his body. As a kick to the ribs lowered Glover's hands, he saw the perfect opportunity to finish the fight. He turned his body sideways and threw a high kick that landed right under the chin, launching him off of his feet and onto the canvas. Glover landed hard and laid still, not moving at all. The referee moved in to do the countdown, but after three saw that Kennedy was out and waved his arms to call the fight. Brandon had won his 31st fight and his tenth title defense, remaining the World Middleweight Champion.

The referee raised his arm in victory and Brandon's manager rushed in to lift him up as Brandon pumped his arms. The crowd was screaming and chanting his name, many people standing up and applauding his performance. After his manager put him down, he put the belt around his waist and Brandon stood in the middle of the ring with his arms raised in victory. The announcer moved in to announce the official results.
"Declaring the winner by knockout, and STILL the GKG Middleweight Champion of the world...BRANDON HARGRAVE!!!"
The crowd went wild again, and everyone was standing up and applauding.

Brandon appreciated the love and admiration, but felt it was time to show respect of his own. He approached Glover's corner and found his opponent semi-conscious in the turnbuckle.
"You were a worthy opponent and are a great fighter. Thank you for making my title defense an awesome one."
Glover smiled and the two did a brief one-arm hug. Brandon then returned to his corner and put on his robe to exit the ring.

As he walked back to the locker room, he reached out and high-fived many of the fans that were reaching out to him. Many young women were trying to get to him, and security had a rough time holding them back. Once he and his manager were in the back, his manager clapped him on the back in joy.
"Great job, Brandon! That was an incredible fight, like always!"
Once in the locker room, Brandon changed into his street clothes and met his manager outside the room.

"Hold on just a second," his manager said.
He pulled out his iPhone and checked their bank account balance. As promised, the GKG had transferred in $30,000.
"We're good to go. Let's head back to San Jose."
The two left the arena and took the same car as before back to Las Vegas International Airport. They were soon on the plane and Brandon laid back in the seat to get some rest. He was once more victorious, and the joy of succeeding in what he loved allowed him to rest peacefully with a smile on his face.
 
Mornings were always the most peaceful at San Jose. Vanessa enjoyed the warmth of the sun, her against against the pathway as she jogged around the entire campus, trees swaying gently above. The crowd had been non existent, barely anyone straying except the after party crowd. Drunk college students-stumbling back to their dorms. One night stands- and the usual walk of shame. Vanessa Vasselli smiled, that was college life. Not that she would ever partake in such activities.

The brunette considered it the behaviour of a whore, and a whore she was not. Vanessa was a girl who did not favour things of a sexual nature. Losing her virginity at seventeen had been painful and messy, and the few times she'd been with Mark was nothing short of dull. Nothing like she heard her friends describe, just sweaty and boring. Vanessa Vasselli came to conclusion that sex had not been for her, and it would never be. She was destined to be a woman who faked it, but the brunette was uncertain of what "it" was. How could one fake a feeling they've never experienced- that had been the million dollar question.

As she ran past the girl who held her heels in hand, a sense of any washed over. For she told herself whore's were cheap, and she was such more. Yet Vanessa knew deep down that she desperately wanted to explore that part of life. Her body responding positively to her thoughts, she blushed as her nipples became visible through the thick fabric of her expensive purple work out top. Time to head home



Her morning progressed as usual and Vanessa had been on her way to Mr Horowitz class. A little eager to see the kickboxing champion. It had been two days since the fight in Las Vegas, it seemed as though their only class together had been Mr Horowitz and their paths never crossed otherwise. She stepped in late, Mr Horowitz already their. He simply eyed Vanessa, giving her short nod. Embarrassed, and all eyes on her. The brunette took the first available seat she spotted, never looking away from it until she was firmly rooted. Being late for anything always sucked in her book. Her friends called it being fashionably late, especially when getting ready was always Vanessa's biggest setback. There was no denying she did look good in her white v necked knee length dress, black thigh high boots and an oversized washed out denim jacket.
 
Brandon parked his car in the parking lot and began a walk toward the front doors for Mr. Horowitz's class. As he was making his way there, an athletic-looking guy approached him, thankfully not this Mark guy that had it out for him.
"Hey there, champ. I caught your last fight. That head kick knockout of Kennedy was epic."
Brandon sighed with exasperation on the inside, but maintained a friendly smile.

One thing about being a celebrity that no one ever tells you is how annoying it is. Since he became World Champion in Kickboxing, it was like that was all people saw. People seemed to forget that outside of the ring, he was still just plain Brandon Hargrave. He had hoped to keep his identity under wraps for a while, but this overzealous fanboy just made it clear that that wasn't going to happen. It was Vanessa's kiss that had probably started this, and now he was probably going to have to dodge guys and girls wanting autographs and other things from him. It was times like this that he wished he could turn invisible.

"Thanks, man. I'm glad you enjoyed the fight, but I have to get to class. Excuse me."
Paul almost jumped in front of him.
"Wait a minute, man. I had something to ask you."

"You want an autograph, right?"
"That would be awesome, but that actually wasn't it. I'm good friends with Vanessa and am dating one of her friends, Samantha. Our whole group hangs out in the cafeteria during lunch and you're more than welcome to join us."
Brandon tried not to get testy, remaining calm.
"I'll...think about it," he finally said.

Paul beamed.
"Cool, man."
He went to walk away and then turned back around.
"I think Vanessa likes you, you know. She plays it cool, but I haven't seen her look like that since she and Mark first got together last year. Maybe hit her up sometime?"

Brandon nodded just to get rid of him, and shook his head when the guy turned his back. The last thing he needed was something like this. College had meant to be an escape for him, a chance to be just a regular guy for a change. Now that looked like it was dashed. Aside from that, the last thing he wanted or needed was to get close to Vanessa. Aside from the Mark problem, she was probably just another girl that only had interest in him because of his status.

Brandon shook off his annoyance and went to class. He sat in the back and couldn't help but notice that Vanessa looked spiffy today. He himself was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a black shirt that said "Iron Jaw Kickboxing Gym", his starting point years ago. He opened his textbook and listened as Mr. Horowitz began. The content of the lecture was boring, but he took notes. The bell rang just as he was falling asleep, and he grabbed his books, heading out of the classroom and down the hall to head home for lunch, since he lived not far from the college.
 
Do not look...

Those three simple words Vanessa Vasselli repeated constantly in her mind. She wanted too look-so badly. Just to see if he had witnessed her embarrassment, if was even sitting in the same spot. Wrong words appeared on her computer screen, not the notes she was suppose to be writing but her thoughts instead. Vanessa hit backspace, holding the nub down it all vanished. Her current state would never do. She needed to look. Careful and covert Vanessa glanced behind. There he was, busy taking notes. His hands not working at a keyboard like her classmates. The brunette wondered why he chose the original method, many found it bothersome to lug around paper. Everything was cleaner and well organized with modern technology. She Brandon Hargrave could more than afford to buy himself the latest laptop. So why didn't he- he was most definitely a strange one.


Vanessa Vasselli had all intentions of speaking to Brandon again before he left class. However the kickboxer disappeared before she could gather her things. It irked the short brunette to the fullest. Vanessa moved as fast as her thigh high heeled boots could take her. Walking quickly down the hall, keeping sight of the t shirt she saw Brandon wearing- she called out too him. There was no answer, no sign of recognition. Tall, handsome, strides long and to precise. He did not miss a beat.

Slow down dammit

Her paced increased, heels hitting the floors of San Jose as she all but ran forward, grabbing the boy by his arm. Her weak grip no match for the bulge of muscle she held onto. The feeling stunned Vanessa, her eyes travelling to the back of his head, waiting for acknowledgement. Not even Mark had been that muscular, as Vanessa held on, she tried to reach her puny palm further around his bicep. Unbelievable. In that moment Vanessa knew Brandon Hargrave, the boy standing in front of her- well, he was no boy. Brandon Hargrave was a man, a man that would not be single for long in San Jose. She gave it a month- a month before girls began throwing themselves his way. Brandon would get laid in a heartbeat.


Vanessa cleared her throat, deciding to speak up. If her grip did not indicate she was a girl then her voice would. At least that would help deter him from throwing a punch at whoever he presumed was bold enough to grab him. "Are you deaf?" She joked. "I was practically shouting your name from down the hall"
 
As Brandon proceeded down the hallway, he thought he was hearing something, but so many voices were intermingling at once that it was hard to know. All of a sudden he felt someone grab his arm, and at first, he thought it was Mark. However, the grip did not feel like a man's, and the hand was too small to even get around his arm. He turned around and had to look down to see Vanessa standing there in front of him. Seeing her face-to-face, he started to feel bad about what he had thought about her earlier. The look in her eyes was of genuine caring, not the look of screaming, horny fangirls.

Brandon smiled at her joke, a charming smile that lit up his whole face.
"I'm sorry. It's loud in this hallway."
People passed around them as they stood there, her still holding onto his arm. It was nice to see her like this, but his plan had just hit a snag. He did not know Vanessa fully and wasn't sure if he could completely trust her, so he did not want her seeing where he lived.

It seemed like he was going to have to take Paul up on his earlier offer.
"Listen, I'm starved. A friend of yours, Paul, invited me to hang out with you guys, so let's go do that."
His hand reached up and gently ran under her arm, his tough skin meeting her smooth skin. His hand took hers and let it rest in his palm before gently letting it down, a much more gentlemanly way of separating her hand from his arm then pulling away. He then turned and began walking toward the cafeteria, walking slower so that the short brunette could keep up.
 
Vanessa Vasselli frowned at the revelation. Why would Paul invite him. Silently she walked beside him, eyes glancing up every now again as she somehow tried to piece together the puzzle that was Brandon Hargrave. The guy was a thousand piece puzzle in Vanessa's mind, and so far every piece was missing-except for his kickboxing career. In that moment the beautiful brunette decided to befriend him, to uncover the mystery. Vanessa was a avid fan of mysteries and solving the unsolvable. It was that simple trait that got her into as much trouble as it could have at a young age.

The same thing that could get me into a lot of trouble now, she thought. If only she knew what the future would hold...Vanessa Vasselli would steer clear of the handsome devil. Brandon Hargrave was trouble in disguise.


When they exited building A, making their way across the open expanse to the large blue double doors that marked the cafeteria, Vanessa spoke up. "I saw your fight.....it was really impressive" She tried to sound nice, though the girl knew nothing of kickboxing. There was no lie to her words-she truly was impressed.

Vanessa walked ahead quickly, opening the doors and heading in before Brandon. Her scanning the area as usual, Paul waving in her direction. She knew he was not waving at her, but the person behind. Vanessa did not need to turn around to see who it was, she smelt him. The feel of his biceps were not the only thing that stunned the brunette....His scent intoxicated. She briefly wondered why it took her this long to notice. Brandon kept her thoughts preoccupied that Vanessa did not notice Mark staring at the two of them as they walked across to her table of friends.


"Hey girls...guys" Vanessa mumbled the last part, waiting till she got Paul alone to tear him a new one.

"Hey!" They all smiled, happy to see Brandon.

"Am I chopped liver?" She pouted.

"Oh shush" Melanie fanned, placing her hand out to Brandon "My name's Melanie, you can call me Mel."

"I'm Terry, the boyfriend." Everyone chuckled at Terry's remark. As if Brandon had any thoughts of taking Melanie away from him.

"Get over yourself" Samantha laughed.

Vanessa sat down taking out a sandwich that she carried for lunch. The only thing she could afford on as student allowance.

Paul eyed Brandon "You can get an array of things at the counter up there...it's kinda pricey but worth it"
 
Brandon turned his head toward her as she said that she had seen his fight.
"Oh, you did? That's great, I'm glad you liked it."
He looked back ahead with a smile on his face.
"Glover Kennedy is a great fighter and person. I'm proud to say that I fought him."

Brandon entered the cafeteria and nodded as Vanessa's friend waved to them. Paul in particular was enthusiastic about it, and he couldn't help but admire the guy's devotion. Perhaps being Brandon Hargrave the kickboxer here was not entirely a bad thing, after all. They all seemed quite eager to meet him, and the first to introduce herself was Melanie.
"Nice to meet you, Mel," he replied politely as he shook her hand in a balanced grip, not too firm but not too loose.
It was then that Terry spoke up, and he chuckled at his joke.

"Oh, the boyfriend, huh? I thought all of these attractive ladies were for me."
This joke got a chuckle out of them, and he shook Terry's hand. Everyone introduced themselves, and he looked over at the counter.
"Be right back."
Brandon went over to the counter and got himself a healthy sandwich with a bottle of water, nothing too expensive.

Brandon sat back down at the table and took a swig of the water.
"So, I suppose it's no secret what I do for a living. Here at the college I'm doing generals. What are you guys pursuing?"
He had not failed to notice that Vanessa's ex Mark had been eyeing him like a hungry wolf, more angry than ever. Not only did it seem like he had taken his woman, but it seemed like he had now taken his place within the group.
 
Terry grinned "I'm also in generals" His enrollment had only been due to Melanie. Terry's heart was set on entering the police academy age he graduated San Jose. In the meantime the brown haired blue eyed boy wanted to be near his beautiful red haired girlfriend, especially as he intended on proposing after they graduated.

" I'm a journalism major" Melanie smiled " I wanna tell the truth, not the lies the media sells these days"

Paul glanced at his beautiful blonde girl " I'm a fitness major"

Samantha rolled her eyes "That's not what it's called" The blonde knew her boyfriend always referred to it like that just to piss her off. She turned to Brandon "He's in nurition and sport science and I'm in interior design"

"Like I said...fitness" Samantha turned to Paul raising her hand to hit him, the tough guy bracing himself. The rest of the gang laughing at their antics.

"Excuse my friends, they're not usually this...nuts" Vanessa smiled as she sipped her water. A half eaten sandwich laying on a brown bag in front of her. Head bowing slightly as she took another chunk out of the cold turkey. There was nothing the brunette would not do for hot chessy, saucy pizza at that moment.


Melanie nodded in agreement with Vanessa's statement "We aren't usually this crazy, but you'll learn to love-" Melanie's sentence had been cut short by the sudden appearance of Mark.


"Hey guys"

Everyone mumbled their response, unimpressed by the footballer and upset at his outward debauchery.

"Vanessa can I talk to you"


The brunette in question who had been in the middle of finishing the last bite of her sandwich looked up. Completely shocked, she grabbed her bottle water, gulping to send the contents of food down quickly.

"I guess" She stood and left the table, Mark escorting her outside.

"Do you think they'll get back together?" Paul asked

"I'm not sure..." Samantha whispered "I hope not"
 
Brandon looked at Terry and nodded with a smile.
"That's great. My reason is that I'm not sure what I want to do yet. I know I can't be a Kickboxer forever, but I haven't found anything I love just as much."
He turned to Melanie and showed suitable respect.
"I look forward to reading your journalism."

Brandon loved that Melanie had the idealism and passion to pursue her dream. He just wondered how many in the field had been like her once and not found it so easy to stick to that. Paul and Samantha both told them what they liked, and he now completely understood why Paul was a fan of his. Nutrition and sports science was especially important for a professional fighter like him.
"My manager would love you, Paul. He has several degrees in that field, a real master of the art of managing."

Brandon then turned his head to Samantha.
"That's awesome that you're going into interior design. I'm sure you and Paul will have a very nice home together."
Paul continued to needle her, and she made like she was going to punch him in the arm playfully.
"Hey, that form's not bad. Maybe some boxing or kickboxing could be in your future?"

He then turned his head to Vanessa.
"No, this is great."
Brandon was enjoying being able to socialize like a normal person. With the women having boyfriends, he could be sure they wouldn't be throwing themselves at him for the wrong reasons, and the guys were cool. The positive vibes continued, until Mark decided to make an appearance. Apparently, whatever he had done had earned him the full disapproval of the group and not just Vanessa.

Brandon did not look at Mark. He did not want the football player to feel like he was being challenged. He did not fear Mark, but he had a lot to lose if there was a fight. Being a professionally trained fighter, he was held to a very high standard in this regard. If he hurt Mark badly in a fight, he stood to lose his career. He could not afford that, so avoiding fights with civilians was a high priority.

Thankfully, Mark only wanted to talk with Vanessa and did not so much as look his way. They left the table and went outside to talk in private. While her close friends talked it over amongst themselves, Brandon began eating his sandwich and drank the water. He thought it had been delicious, especially for not being badly priced.
"I'm going to hit the gym. See you guys later."

Brandon got up and headed out the door to head to the gym, not passing by where Mark and Vanessa had gone. He was in a Physical Education class this semester, so he could use the gym facilities for free. Once he was there, he changed in the locker room to comfortable gray basketball shorts and a gray tank top. He definitely drew attention for being so muscular, but he ignored it and began bench-pressing. After that, he began to use a pull down weight machine. Being a Kickboxer, it was important for him to work his legs, as well, so he began to lift the heavy weights with his powerful legs as others filed in to work out, as well.
 
Vanessa knew nothing good would come of her agreeing to Marks request. Ego and pride filled his head and Mark went storming away from Vanessa, back into the cafeteria. She followed behind quickly in a confused and frantic state. Not knowing what Mark was going to do next made everything all the more dangerous.

He saw the new guy leave the table from where he stood outside. Mark figured it was about time he introduced himself. Within minutes the tall athletic sandy blonde found his target. The unsuspecting Brandon had been working out, unaware of the impending confrontation.

"Mark stop" Vanessa said right on his heels. Her feet hurting from trying to keep up with him in heels.


"Hey" He began, waiting for Brandon Hargrave to pause his work out. Mark Samuel did not want a fight, he just needed to size up his opponent-instill fear. "Your name is?" He continued, standing closely to Brandon's weight machine.

"His name is Brandon....that's all you need to know" Vanessa sighed.

"Don't tell him anything" she mouthed to the kickboxer from behind her ex boyfriend's back.
 
Brandon had just finished doing a few reps when he saw Vanessa's ex approaching him with intent.
Oh, great, here we go...
He stopped lifting and turned his head to face him. Vanessa was right behind Mark, and she was mouthing for him to not tell him anything. Brandon stood up to face Mark man-to-man, and it was clear that whatever Mark thought of himself, he was not the alpha here. Brandon was a few inches taller and much bigger than him, so it was clear that Mark would be making a mistake to seek a fight.

However, Brandon let his eyes remain neutral, showing no hostility or annoyance. Mark was already on edge, so he did nothing with his words or body language to make him think he was being challenged.
"My name is Brandon Hargrave."
He extended his hand, and Mark reluctantly shook it.
After they dropped hands, Brandon kept the tone of his voice friendly and polite.
"There is a misunderstanding here."

He gestured toward Vanessa.
"I had no idea Vanessa was going to kiss me, and we are not dating. She just told you that to get under your skin. I was sitting with her friends because I didn't feel like driving home to eat. I'm not trying to date Vanessa or take your place in any way. I'm just trying to live my life and want to be left alone, end of story."

Brandon turned and walked away with no further word or gesture, getting his stuff and leaving the gym before Mark could push this further. He hoped that this would put an end to issues with Mark, but to be sure, he would stay away from Vanessa and her friends. If Mark continued to fill like his position in their lives was threatened, he would continue pushing things with him, and he simply had too much to lose to allow that. He was not going to throw away his hard-won career because some jock was having problems with his woman or ex woman or whatever. He walked out to his car, earning admiring glances from the men and very interested glances from the women. He stowed his stuff in his car and began going for a run on the path around the school, what they called in the Boxing and Kickboxing world "road work".
 
Mark turned to face Vanessa after Brandon Hargrave disappeared through the double doors of the gym. "Don't play games with me"

The brunette felt like screaming and kicking Brandon where sun did not shine. The kickboxer humiliated her and she would return the favour. Vanessa folded her arms, defiant in her stance. "Stop bothering me and I'll stop playing games" with that said she spun on her heels, hell bent on giving the champion a piece of her mind.

"The least he could've done was help me out" Vanessa muttered as she made her way out of the main building. However, Brandon had been nowhere in sight.

Great

Vanessa let out an exasperated breath as she scanned the students that littered the front of campus. Her brown eyes landing on the wide variety of vehicles in the student car park. A small smile played at her lips. With confidence in her step Vanessa Vasselli made her to Brandon's truck. The short brunette hopped onto the hood with little difficulty, her legs crossed, extenuating the black thigh high boots she wore. Brandon could not escape her now, he wouldn't...

Rather than humiliation, the mischievous brunette had other plans in mind for the tall dark mysterious man. Vanessa knew her presence, persistence and annoying qualities would drive him insane. The peace of mind he so wanted-would be crushed.
 
Brandon had done about four laps around the school track, not bad considering that he had run for well over a mile. He was sweating and exhausted by the time he got done, his tank top stained dark with sweat, but he smiled as he felt his body reacting well to him pushing it. He got a long drink of water and used the gym's shower facilities to clean up before drying off and changing his clothes. As he was heading back to his car to go home, he saw Vanessa laying down on the hood of his car and sighed. It was clear that she was unhappy with him for staying neutral instead of taking her side against Mark, and she was now going to make him pay for it. Even with that realization, though, there was little a good guy like him could do to stop it.

Brandon went around to the front of the car and looked at her with an amused look. He looked her up and down, taking in her athletic body, beautiful face, and nice clothing.
"You look like you're posing for some weird new-age art, a mix between a car magazine cover and a prep school brochure."
He opened the door and placed his bag in the passenger seat and shut it before walking over and crossing his arms.
"I have a feeling you're going to want to stick to me like glue for all the wrong reasons."

Brandon got behind the wheel and started the car. He could have backed the car up, sped forward, and then hit the brakes suddenly to throw Vanessa into the gravel and pavement of the parking lot, but he was not that mean a person. So, he decided to take a more roundabout approach. He backed out of the parking lot and headed for the edge of the parking lot on the other end. He then hit the brakes and tossed her onto the grass, which might stain her clothing but would not really hurt her.
"See ya," he said with a wave of his hand as he drove off, headed for home.

Since he lived not far from the university, he took a longer and more convoluted route to a parking garage and parked his car there. He then took a convoluted and twisting path home, often doubling back on himself and taking out of the way routes on foot before he finally arrived home. Between all of it, it should have made it impossible for Vanessa to follow him, and she would not find his apartment easily because it was not rented in his real name. Vanessa may have been determined to make him pay, but she had underestimated his own determination to avoid company and focus on his career. One did not become a world champion without a healthy dose of determination. He laughed as he got a drink and headed over to his kitchen table to study.
 
Vanessa Vasselli waited on the hood of Brandon Hargrave's Chevy for half an hour. Every minute Vanessa checked her soft pink watch, helps knocking against the bumper as she waited for the handsome hunk to show up. "Is he running a marathon?" She muttered placing her hand bag underneath her head as she laid back. Vanessa wondered if he saw her from a distance, lurking in the bushes, waiting till she gave up. The brunette smiled, her determination would be something Brandon Hargrave learned about the hard way.



Vanessa's eyes had been closed, her thoughts filtering through the past as the gentle breeze washed over her smooth skin. Brandon's footsteps did not stir the sleeping beauty, his voice did. Chocolate brown eyes fluttered open and she mentally cursed herself for falling asleep in such a place. His voice carried to her ears but Vanessa heard nothing, she could not decipher his words in her sleepy haze. Before brunette knew it the truck on which she laid roared to life


Oh my God

Vanessa's heart dropped

He wouldn't...

Brandon Hargrave did...

Vanessa Vasselli had been thrown from the hood of the truck, a loud scream escaping her pink lips as she soared in the air, body hitting the grass with a soft thump...and again-she was humiliated. Vanessa got to her feet just in time to see the back of Brandon's chevy, moving further and further away in the distance.


The next day like clockwork Vanessa Vasselli was back on the hood of Brandon Hargrave's car. Looking rather regal in her purple sundress, a pair of nude sandals strapped on her feet. Vanessa planned on being there every single day for the week, taking risks was what she did. After all her father was the biggest risk taker in life. Victor Vasselli ran a smooth crime organization like no other. The man gambled with money and life everyday. He gambled with the lives of his family. His visits to San Jose were an attempt to persuade his beloved daughter of her recklessness. Living out of his reach meant that Vanessa was open to all enemies of the Vasselli's. She knew fully well the danger, such things never stopped Vanessa. The girl was stupid, reckless and stupid. For she too gambled-gambled with her life.


Vanessa Vasselli stuck to her word, everyday she would sit on the chevy parked on campus. Each day Brandon Hargrave would do something different to remove the thorn from his sight. Today however was a little bit different. The short brunette wore a white sundress, coupled with white sneakers, and unlike her usual routine of sitting on Brandon's hood. She climbed into the tray of his truck, spreading a cloth to lay down. A little bag of snacks and drinks handy, a.book in hand as she waited for the kickboxer to return. There was no throwing his off this time, Vanessa wondered if he'd even notice her. The excitement sent a chill through her soul.
 
For days now, Vanessa had been making him pay for not taking her side against Mark. Being tossed from the hood of his truck had not deterred her in the least. The very next day, she had been back on, and so he bodily removed her and carried her to her dorm, locking her in while he left with her own keys, which he slid back under the door so that she could get out after he was gone. One day while she wore shoes, he picked her up, tied her shoes together, and set her down. However, every day she was right back, not missing a beat. He was just considering what to do about her today when his thoughts were interrupted by the slamming of a locker.

"You lied to me, motherfucker!" Mark shouted as he shoved Brandon with both hands in the chest.
Brandon took a couple steps back, but remained unperturbed.
"How so?"
"My fucking ex-girlfriend has been on your truck every day this week. She goes straight from class to your truck. But you're going to tell me you're not dating!?"

Mark took a swing at him with a right hook, which Brandon easily dodged by moving his head back while standing his ground. The punch had been so slow that he could have ordered a pizza and eaten it before it got to his face, so it was clear that Mark, even on his best day, was no threat to him, a Kickboxing World Champion.
"Mark, calm down. Vanessa may be going to my truck, but she's not leaving with me. She's playing games with both of us. Be mad at her, not me."

Mark paid no heed to his words, throwing several punches but missing by a mile each time. With this not working, he tried a football tackle, but Brandon nimbly sidestepped him and he went straight toward a wet floor. Mark felt his foot go out from under him, and before he knew it, he was sliding uncontrollably toward the door. He went headfirst into a bucket of cleaning solution, and his momentum carried the bucket out the door. The shocked janitor chased after it, and Brandon took this moment to make a clean escape. He sprinted toward the parking lot, where he saw Vanessa sitting in the bed of his truck.

Mark would be like a rampaging bull if he caught up to them, and Brandon could not legally use force to stop him, so they both had to get out of there. He was in his truck in a flash and started it up.
"Hang on back there!" he shouted as he put on his seat belt and shifted the selector lever in reverse.
Brandon now had no choice but to show Vanessa where he lived, but it was better than Mark hurting her. He drove his truck to a parking garage out of the way and hustled her back to his place. Once inside, he got both of them a drink and downed his quickly, since running all out in the California heat was a sweaty affair.

"Your ex is very unhappy with us. He, uh...Well, he soaked his head."
He set his empty glass down on the counter and headed into the living room.
"Well, this is where I live. Make yourself comfortable, for now."
He sat down on the couch and leaned back to relax.
 
Too caught up in the wonderful life of her novella characters, Vanessa had not noticed when a frantic Brandon burst through the doors of the main building on campus. Making a mad dash toward his vehicle. The brunette had been startled from her reading when the engine rumbled to life, Brandon shouting for her to hold on. "Are you insane!" Vanessa replied, falling onto the bed of the truck when the truck sped out of the parking lot.

What the hell is he doing?

Vanessa Vasselli's hair blew wildly in the wind as the truck drove along the well paved roads of San Jose. The scared girl knew not where she was heading too, with her face on the blanket, hands holding all her belongings tightly, eyes shut. In the blink of an eye Brandon's truck came to an abrupt stop, and before Vanessa knew she was being ushered through the door of the athletes apartment.


Vanessa laid her paraphernalia onto the nearest table and oddly looked about the room. Her gaze focused on the way Brandon Hargrave dug through his fridge, filling two glasses with a liquid that looked somewhat like lemonade. Vanessa refrained from taking the glass, not because she did not trust him-but because she needed answers. Without asking Brandon spilled the tea, informing Vanessa of Mark's behaviour toward him. It was all her fault.

"I'm sorry..." she sat cautiously next to him "If I didn't kiss you none of this would've ever happened." Vanessa took a deep breath and stood up "I'll fix things" she strode toward her bag, packing her things that had been strewn on Brandon's table " So you won't have to worry about him attacking you..." God, what was she thinking kissing a random stranger. What if Brandon turned out to be a soft guy, Mark would have done his worst...and Vanessa would be completely at fault. At fault for putting an innocent weak person in danger.
 
Brandon chuckled.
"You're far harder on yourself than you need to be. Aside from that, for just being spur of the moment, it was a good kiss."
He stood up and approached her.
"No, you won't. Mark's gone too far now, and after the way he was humiliated in front of everyone, it would be way too dangerous for you to face him."

He smiled.
"Aside from that, I have a plan. There is a way I can legally fight him, and I think it's about time to do so. Once the fight is over, he won't be bothering either of us ever again. My plan is a bit extreme, certainly more than an asshole like him deserves, but it's time to get him out of both of our lives. The best part is that it is completely legal and completely safe."

Brandon went back into the kitchen and refilled his glass with lemonade.
"Mark no doubt knows where your dorm is, given he used to be your boyfriend and all. I want you to stay here tonight so that you'll be safe. In fact, I insist on it. You can use my bedroom and I'll sleep on the couch. Tomorrow, Mark won't be a problem anymore and you can rest in your dorm safe and sound."
 
Vanessa eyed Brandon Hargrave skeptically. She had not expected someone like him to stand up for defend her. He was after all a champion, did he not have better things to do. Vanessa knew the answer to that, she knew Brandon would rather not go up against her ex boyfriend. Such drama was the kind she was certain the kickboxer avoided at all costs in his career. Angry boyfriends, in her case ex boyfriend would be burdensome to deal with. Part of the brunette felt like accepting his offer,whatever it may be. There was part of Vanessa that could not do it, she could not put them in that situation. Despite whatever ill feelings she may have toward Mark Samuel, he was once someone she loved....still someone she loved.

"Thanks but I'll manage" She smiled, placing her things back onto the table. "I'll stay here to make you feel better, but no fighting. He's my problem...I will fix it"

Vanessa moved into the kitchen grabbing the glass.of lemonade Brandon poured, downing it in one shot. Trying desperately to give herself a boost of confidence to do what she was thinking. Asking her father for help would mean admitting that she could not handle her consequences. Allowing Brandon to do his worst would mean involving him, which frankly-she had done the moment their lips connected.

Vanessa turned to Brandon, her lips twisting in thought. "I'll stay the night, more than a night if you want. Just please promise me you won't do anything" her brown eyes stared right at him, searching his for honesty in whatever he was about to say.
 
Brandon shook his head.
"No, he's my problem now and I'm going to handle this my way. This isn't just about you, you know. You involved me in this, and I think my way of doing things will be better for everyone. He won't be sent to the hospital, but he will get the point. He won't have a choice but to leave us both alone."

Brandon was starting to feel irritated, that she would involve him like this and then ask him to not do anything. He didn't know what she had in mind, but he didn't trust that it wouldn't be worse for Mark than what he would do.
"You won't have to stay more than a night, because this ends tomorrow. I don't care what you say, I'm going to do this and that's the end of it. I'm getting him out of my life my way. It will benefit you, as well, but you're mistaken if you think I'm doing this only for you."

Brandon's eyes were tinged with anger, not believing that she would cause problems for him and then ask him not to do anything about it. He had already had to run away once to avoid being killed, and he was not going to run away again. Deciding to put distance between them before he said something that he would later regret, he walked away to his room and shut the door. Once he had calmed down and his manager had come home, he would explain to her what his plan was, and she would see how it was a good idea with no down side. He sat down on his bed and let out a deep breath. Dealing with Mark was a simple matter, but dealing with Vanessa was something else entirely, especially since he was starting to feel conflicting feelings within himself that he did not truly understand.
 
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