Jolie POV
The training room reeked of sweat. Knox had set up mats in the center, punching bags along the walls. Weapons hung on racks—knives, staff, even a few silver chains.
I stared at them. My reflection stared back from the mirror. Dark circles under my eyes. Hair pulled into a messy braid. Sports bra and leggings Doc said would let me move freely.
I looked like I'd already lost.
"First lesson." Knox's voice made me jump. "Stop thinking you're going to fail. It shows in your stance."
I turned. He was in workout gear too, scars visible on his arms. "I'm not"
"You are." He walked over. "You're already defeated up here." He tapped my forehead. "So your body follows. We fix that first."
"How?"
"By beating it out of you." He grinned. "On the mat. Now."
I stepped onto the mat. Knox
