I shrugged innocently. “Nothing. Look at their faces. Are you really going to turn them down?”
He opened his mouth—probably to refuse again—but I leaned in slightly and lowered my voice.
“If you win,” I said sweetly, “I’ll do anything you ask.”
That got his attention.
“And if I win,” I added, eyes gleaming, “you’ll get me anything I ask.”
There was a beat of silence.
Then Alexander smirked.
He pulled his shirt over his head in one smooth motion and tossed it aside.
“Deal.”
The cheers nearly shook the field apart. This was obviously not about the demonstration for them anymore. They were excited for the match.
I stepped onto the field, the dirt cool under my boots despite the heat of the afternoon sun. The recruits gathered around, murmuring excitedly, and even Kyle took a step ba
