Ben’s POV
TWENTY FOUR YEARS AGO
*
*
“Keep your fists up. Don’t let them drop.”
I do as I am ordered, shuffling from foot to foot as I wait for the next attack.
Turns out I don’t have to wait long, the fist comes at me and I flinch, missing how it redirects its route and heads straight for my stomach.
I fold over in pain, winded.
“But don’t forget to always expect the unexpected either, kid.”
“CHARLES!! Don’t be too rough with him! He’s only twelve years old, for Goddess sake!!” my mom calls from the kitchen, her voice getting louder as she makes her way out to the garden to examine the damage.
“I’m fine, mom!!” I call back defensively, pulling myself upright and ignoring the dull ache in my abdomen.
“Yes, you are, son…” my dad chuckles, walking over to ruffle my hair aff
