Chapter 12 - Training Session

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⚠️This chapter contains a quite graphic description of self-harm. If you want to skip that part that starts with (!!!) this, you may read the rest where it starts with this (*)!⚠️

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- 8 Days Later -

Leon's body writhes left and right in evident distress. Sweat trickles down his neck and torso, wetting his grey tank top as he finds himself trapped in another nightmarish episode- Nightmares from the past, refusing to leave him alone. 

Inside the dark bedroom, two empty bottles of whiskey lay dumped on the floor, obvious proof of his usual attempt to drown his traumatic past. His shoulder holster, jacket, and jeans are strewn around as well, mirroring the mental and chaotic inside his mind. His breathing is slow, but steadily grows heavier, as the dream seems to blur the lines between reality and illusion.

-

Many shades of black like wavy, electrocuting lines begin to dominate his arms, legs, face, and eyes. Echoes of a sinister voice reverberate inside Leon's head, demanding his body to obey his orders. Saddler's voice. Saddler's orders.

Helpless, he collapses on his knees, his hand pressing against his pained chest. The difficulty to breathe increases drastically. He begins to accept his fate...these are his last moments alive. His last moments as 'Leon'.

"Do not resist the perfect gift..." 

The haunting words echo, driving deeper into his subconscious.

(!!!)

Leon lifts his head, gaze locking upon the emptiness before him. His eyes die, and his eyebrows soften. Defeated completely by this dark force, he submits completely, reaching for Krauser's knife, by drawing it out from his shoulder holster. Raising his stitched palm, he takes a good brief look to observe (y/n)'s work.

Not taking much longer, he lowers the edge of the knife, cutting the sewed wound wide open. A mixture of black and red blood begins to flow, dripping down the ironed floor as Leon remains expressionless. He is unable to control his movements, unable to control his emotions.

He can literally sense the parasite creeping inside his body. He becomes one of them.

Mumbling Spanish prayers, Leon carves torturously slow a horizontal line against his bloody palm, creating a crucifix. Still, his face stays blank, though his body wants to scream from the pain...

"Leon!" Ashley's desperate crying faintly reaches his ears from a very far distance but is unable to grab his attention.

Leon's hand begins to tremble as he raises the now blood-stained knife to his neck, his actions driven by Saddler's haunting voice echoing in his mind. Expressionless tears are rolling down his cheeks as he struggles against the conflicting forces within him. His brain fights to resist further self-harm, but his body seems to act against his will, pushing the sharp blade closer to his skin.

The moment the sound of the flesh slashing echoes-

(*)

-

3:45 A.M. Eyes shot open, jolting from the unbearable images. His lungs craving for oxygen. A frequent sight, that leaves Leon in desperation for rest. The effects of his drinking session from hours ago only made his suffering worse, giving him a brutal hangover. Headache and nausea gnawed at him, causing great discomfort.

As he gains full consciousness, he immediately checks his injured palm. Thankfully, it's still in a good condition, still protected by the stitches and gauze applied by (y/n) after her regular checkup, three days ago.

The dampness on his body is glistening in the dark, his sweat-soaked top adorned with dark spots, and a gaze filled with cautiousness remains on his face. The moment he recognizes it was just a distressing dream, he slowly lies back down on the bed once again, trying to regain his composure. Leon swallows the remaining of his saliva as his breathing is still heavy.

Closing his eyes, he focuses on calming his breathing. Yet, the dream's disturbing images continue to linger in his mind, resurfacing the terrible events he had faced on the island 3 months ago.

That dream only makes him hope for one thing.

That, that fucker, Saddler is burnt in hell.

----

Send it.

Don't send it.

Send it.

Don't send it.

Your index hovers over the mouse, while your eyes are fixated on the computer screen, rereading the email you have written down. This email holds your personal information and a video of a piano performance you recorded before becoming the team's doctor at the base. A conflict is created in your mind about whether to click the "send" button or not.

Only god knows the reaction your dad would get if he saw you doing this right now.

Royal College of Music. The conservatory you want to attend in Sweden once all this mess with the parasite is over. You yearn to explore the world of music further, away from blood, organs, and death. You desperately want to take this chance, even if it means risking failure. After all, you are a grown-ass woman. You have the free will to do whatever you want.

Because at the end of the day, doing everything your parents wanted just to get their attention since a little child seems not enough at all. All you ended up doing was allowing them to take over your personal and professional life.

And yet Ava is still the favorite child. At just 26, she already has a child and is married to a businessman- even though they break up every two months, but most importantly, she is working as a nurse at your parents' hospital because she wants to.

So, it is time to look after yourself and your wants for once.

"Fuck it," you mutter resolutely as you click the 'send' button. The die is cast...and there's no turning back now.

You made a promise to yourself days ago before you ended up here, sending the application to enter the examinations for the academy. The academy's reply will determine your future career path. If accepted, you'll leave without looking back, even if your family doesn't support you. If rejected, you'll continue as a nursing student-

And keep piano as....a simple hobby.

Suddenly, your phone buzzes beside you on the desk, snapping you out of your thoughts. A message notification appears on the screen:

Claire: I'm outside.

Once your eyes land on the text, you rise from the desk and make your way towards the exit. Before you open the door, you gather your purse and your jacket, leaving and locking the door behind you. Outside, Claire awaits you in her car, adjusting the mirror.

You rush to her car and get into the passenger seat. "Good morning," you greet her with a smile, fastening your seatbelt.

"Good morning," Claire replies, watching you settle in "Ready to go and take off the plaster?"

"I'm more than ready. It was about damn time," You sigh, relaxing into your seat. "You have no clue how much I appreciate this- you know, coming all the way here to drive me to the doctor," you pause, glancing back at your childhood friend. "Thank you, Claire."

"Don't mention it, please. It's on our way to the base anyway, so it's no trouble for me. I had my little ride too," she chuckles lightly, starting the car's engine. "Plus, we haven't had a chance to talk properly in the past two weeks. I was constantly outside the base, and you were in and out due to your recovery. So now we can have some time to chat," she adds.

"Yeah, I guess," you nod as Claire drives away from your house. "After the mission in Rosewood, things got really busy for the team."

"Indeed, things took a darker turn, but I'm sure we'll be able to wrap up this mission soon. We're close, I can feel it," Claire says optimistically.

"I really hope so," you reply, though your doubts about it are quite evident in your voice.

The ride falls into a brief silence, allowing Claire to focus on driving while you try to distract yourself from the family drama and other worries.

Your parents did not try to contact you after the many times you rejected to see them, due to your nose injury. Your first and only thought is that they are probably mad, but it's better for them to be angry with you than to see you in the condition you were in three weeks ago.

It's definitely for the best.

"How's Leon's hand?" Claire's sudden question breaks the silence, surprising you as Leon's name enters the conversation so unexpectedly. "Is it healing alright?"

"Yea, it's doing well," you reply, adopting a professional tone. "He had a pretty deep cut, so it will take some time to fully recover," you clear your throat lightly. "By the way...do you know how he got hurt?" you ask. Claire shrugs.

"No clue. I thought he would have told you," she replies.

"Well, he did mention a 'small' accident but that's all. He did not jump into any details," the moment Leon becomes the topic of the current conversation you have with Claire, the need to ask if that question creeps inside you once again, and this time it's stronger than ever. 

"I see," ...awkward..

"Yeah,...you know, I thought he told you because-" Shit...You really..REALLY want to finally ask this..but you're not supposed to care...but you gotta ask indirectly at least- "since you know..you two are dating- and stuff-.."

The moment you say that, you don't look at her, but you can surely feel Claire's eyes pinned on you, while you look outside the window.

For two months now you've been wondering if Claire and Leon are a thing or date. You already attempted to ask many times, but always stopped at the very last second. Now, while trying to push the thoughts away and subdue your feelings towards him before you let them grow, you fail, letting curiosity take the best of you.

"Huh?" Claire is now beyond puzzled at what you just said. You finally turn your gaze at her.

"What? No?"

"What makes you think that Leon and I are a thing?" Claire asks, showing pure curiosity and surprise at your assumption.

"It..seemed like it, I guess?" You try to excuse. Something that made Claire laugh.

"We're just close friends and work partners," she clarifies with a smile. "Nothing more,"

"ah..I see," you nod, leaning back on your seat. Well...that doesn't really help- but oh hey, you don't care, remember?

"Why are you asking, (y/n)?" Claire asks, letting her gaze linger on you. "Are you interested in Leon?"

You clear your throat, feeling uneasy. "Oh, don't be ridiculous. I'm just curious, that's all," you quickly explain. "Leon isn't really my type, so..."

That has to be one of the biggest fucking lies you have ever said. The things you do and say to cover your ass are unbelievable.

"I know, I know. I was just teasing you," Claire says with a playful smile, both her hands still on the steering wheel and her focus now back on the road. The conversation escalated, yet you know now that Leon and Claire are not together..but does it really matter?

----

- 8 Days Ago -

They both make their way toward the exit of the office. Ada's footsteps remain slow, exuding a seductive aura that can captivate anyone with just her presence.

Ares follows behind, his eyes tracing every movement of the alluring mercenary. The doors leading to the main office close behind them as they walk their way out. Neither of them speak a single word as they now stand in front of the elevator, waiting for it to arrive on their floor.

"So, Ada, eh..." Ares greets her once more, breaking the silence. His eyes do not stop wandering her figure as she stands calm, and confident, waiting for the elevator doors to open. "I have to say, you are the last person I expected to see,"

"I couldn't say the same," Ada replies, glancing at him momentarily, her expression relaxed. He lets out a flirty chuckle, crossing his arms.

"What is the plan?" He follows with a question. Ada pauses for a bit, a faint frown of curiosity crossing her face.

"Do you think there's another plan behind the job we were assigned in the office?"

"Of course I do," he leans closer, his voice nearly a whisper. "You're a smart woman, Ada. We both know you always act above the range of your assignments. So how about you share it with me? We are partners, after all, eh?" 

Ada maintains her serenity. "Your job is to follow the orders and bring the intel you were asked to," she replies before the sound of the elevator's arrival echoes through the hallway. "Leave the samples to me." She completes, stepping inside.

"And what about Leon?" Ares asks. Ada turns to look at him from inside the elevator, her silence giving an answer. She presses the button for her desired floor, still not revealing her true intentions.

"See you around, 'Ares'." Ada cryptically says, leaving him in question.

As Ares stands there, he watches the door close and the elevator descends. Ada is not a woman to trust, and he knows that pretty well..

----

"-There was no DNA found on the envelope," Luis' voice echoes in the background as Leon is sitting in the corner of the table, studying the piece of paper he received a few days ago. He kept it hidden under the files he was reading,

'I am getting closer, Leon.'

This time, the anonymous sender, left this one on the hood of his Jeep. The second letter he receives. Someone is messing with him, and he can't figure out who...

Shifting the files on his left hand, Leon gazes at his right hand, onto the gauzed palm. Opening and closing it carefully and slowly, he recalls the attack he encountered a week ago. He tries to connect the dots and figure out if the sender of the letters is connected to the incident in Rosewood.

"The man who wrote and sent the letter made sure to leave no trace behind,"

"Alright," Carlos sighs, taking the letter in his hands. Leon's attention is now drawn to them, although he keeps his focus on the papers in front of him. "I will make one final attempt to locate the senders from the handwriting at least. They are Hispanic or Mexican. Although the dudes that trapped us sounded more than American, and seemed to be from a secret army."

"What makes you say that?" Luis asks, seemingly surprised.

"Come on, who else would want the samples?" Carlos says, remembering the weapons they were carrying. "Those bastards know a lot, and they were prepared," he replies, his frustration evident. 

Luis sighs, his hands resting on his belt, portraying the threatening situation they are stuck in. 

Soon enough his gaze lands on Leon, who is massaging his head softly, still loaded with the consequences of his last night's drinking session. Luis decides to walk up to him, leaning his lower back against the table. A chuckle escapes his lips, observing Leon's condition.

"Wake up, Pancho," he teasingly says, crossing his legs. "It's almost 10, and you look like una mierda." 

"I'll just take that as a compliment," Leon mutters, sitting up slowly and closing the file with his papers. Luis pulls out the pack of his cigarettes and grabs one with his teeth.

"Got a date with Jack Daniels last night?" Luis asks as Leon hisses lightly from the headache. He nods slowly.

"We enjoyed the session, so I stayed overtime," Leon says, indicating that he had indulged in two bottles of whiskey. After a few attempts, Luis manages to light the cigarette and takes the first drag.

As he blows the smoke, Luis glances at his bandaged hand, before looking back at him. "Did you drink coffee?" he asks. Leon shakes his head. 

Luis resting his cigarette back on his lips, stands up, taking the lighter from the table and pocketing it. "Alright, señor, I'll go to Wiskays' and get some coffee. Looks like you definitely need it."

Leon looks surprised at Luis's willingness to go, but the realization quickly sets in. "You won't go for the coffee, will you?" Leon asks, to which Luis smirks again.

"I've been single for too long...such a loss for the ladies, doncha think?" he winks playfully before making his way to the exit. Leon sighs, not bothered by Luis's antics, and leans back in his chair, trying to relax.

--

The doors of the base slide open, and Luis appears, who is standing before you and Claire. The moment his eyes dart to the two of you, a mischievous smile curls up on his lips.

"Well, what a pleasant surprise. The two flowers of the team have arrived." He greets you with a compliment. Claire smiles, as you both enter.

"From your words, I can tell Chris is not here yet," she guesses, chuckling lightly. Luis grins.

"He is with Piers. The general has asked to see them," he replies, before turning his gaze to you, scanning your face. "Ah, so good to see your pretty face again, (y/n)," he says, taking a step closer. "I was starting to miss it those three weeks you had that plaster on,"

You awkwardly tease the straps of your purse, feeling a bit self-conscious under Luis's gaze. "Thanks," you smile before shifting your attention at Carlos, who is standing right in the main room, examining a letter, and then at Leon who- seems like a pure mess.

Claire steps aside allowing Luis to leave, and you make your way towards the rest of the team. Your eyes are fixed on Leon. "Good morning."

"Morning, (y/n)," Carlos says back with a faint smile. "You got the plaster off, I see." 

"Yeah, about time that happened," You laugh lightly, before your return your gaze to Leon. This time, on his hand.

Remain professional.

"Good morning, Leon."

"Hey," he says firmly, avoiding eye contact. You clear your throat, adjusting your purse on your shoulder.

"Uh, whenever you can, come to the operating room so I can check your palm," you say, trying to maintain a professional demeanor. He lifts his eye to look at you.

"I'm free now," he replies, standing up from the chair.

"Alright then, follow me," you say, leading the way to the operating room. Leon walks right behind you as Luis soon disappears from view, and Claire and Carlos split up to their tasks.

Soon enough, Leon and you enter the operating room. He makes his way, settling on to the chair as you take off your jacket and purse, placing them aside. Taking a pair of your sterilized gloves, you slip them on your fingers, as you walk towards him.

You notice him being extremely...grumpy today. Dark circles under his eyes and that tired look on his face looking even more...tired.

"Are you okay?" you ask, your concern evident.

"Yeah. Just a little headache, that's all." He replies, both of you avoiding eye contact. Despite his assurance, he looks far from okay, but you decide not to press further.

Since he won't even tell you too.

"How is your hand today? Are you still on medication?" you inquire, taking a seat on the stool.

"I only take the painkillers you recommended," he replies. "So far, I don't have problems with it." You nod as you begin to unwrap the gauze from his palm to assess the healing process.

"I hope you aren't mixing them with alcohol," you comment and Leon nods in response.

Continuing your work, by discarding the old gauze in order to replace it with a new one, you sense Leon's eyes pinned on your face. Stealing a quick glance, your senses come true as you catch Leon staring at you, freezing your movements.

Another thing you learned about Leon: he is discreet with the way he looks at people.

"Are you alright? Did I hurt you?" You slowly ask, trying to understand the reason behind his intense gaze.

"No," he simply replies. "I was only thinking about starting the training lessons right after you finish patching me up." Leaning back, you look at him, trying to comprehend what he just said.

Because truth is...With all the existential crisis you've experienced in the past week, you had forgotten about the training completely. "You took off your plaster, and your nose healed completely, so I don't see a reason we shouldn't start today," he adds.

You clear your throat, before looking down, continuing your work.

"Yeah, my nose may be fine, but your hand is not,"

"That doesn't stop us," Leon says. You remain silent for a moment, still unsure whether you should actually let him train you. "You will be the one who will go under training, not me." He continues. "We already spent too much time, because of your recovery. There's no room to lose more."

"Well- what about the clothes? I didn't bring any-" you begin, but Leon scoffs lightly at your attempt to find more excuses to avoid the training.

"If you get attacked by someone and have to use the techniques I'll teach you, will you ask the attacker to wait for you to change into something more comfortable?" Leon questions you, with a hint of irony in it. Well...you hate to admit, but he has a point; the clothes should be the last thing to your concerns. "Look, I am only doing this to help you defend yourself now that you work here, and avoid anything similar that happened back in Rosewood, the night you had with that dude, or anything that might occur to you in the future- If you don't want us to do this, I will not pressure you. Just say it." He finishes, with a much calmer and understanding tone.

After all..he didn't really ask you if you wanted this training. You have every right to reject his suggestion if you want to. However, Leon's willingness and persistence to help you protect yourself says a lot...at least to you about the type of person he might actually be.

"Okay- no, you are right," you quietly agree, holding the clean gauze in your hands. "If you're sure you're okay with training me under these conditions, then we can start today," you say before you begin to wrap the clean gauze around his healing wound.

Leon nods, closing his eyes and leaning his head back in the chair, allowing you to continue your work.

Today it is then.

--

"Do you think we can do that?" Claire asks her attention to the laptop screen.

"Yeah, I think so. I mean it will be worth a try," Carlos replies, considering the plan they are discussing, his fingers on the keyboard.

"Alright, I'll tell Chris," she confirms.

At that moment, the door of the operating room opens, and Leon walks out without saying a word, followed by (y/n). They both seem to be in a hurry, drawing the attention of the two partners currently working at the table, especially Carlos.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold up, where are you guys rushing to?" Carlos asks, spinning and standing up from the chair, as he watches them leave. The moment they hear his voice they both stop and turn around. 

"The training room," Leon declares.

"What for?" Claire inquires.

"Traning," Leon casually responds before motioning (y/n) with his head to follow him. "We'll be back in an hour." He completes before the two partners leave the base in literal...haste. 

The doors close behind them, leaving Carlos and Claire exchanging looks of confusion and surprise. "Um... What was that?" Carlos asks.

"I don't know," Claire says, standing up from the table, her eyes now fixed on the entrance door. "Who is training what?"

"Leon, (y/n)...?"

"Are we supposed to follow them?" Carlos asks, feeling quite lost at this point. Claire simply shrugs her shoulders in response.

----

Leon swings open the door of the B.S.A.A.'s training room, gesturing for you to walk in first.

What a gentleman.

Upon entering the room, your gaze begins to scan its surroundings. It seems the room is still under development. However, that doesn't seem to be an obstacle to stop you and Leon from training here.

You take off your purse and place it on the small wooden bench against the wall, as Leon begins to take off his tactical belt, and his shoulder holster. Of course, you are a bit nervous. One, because you don't know how Leon will be as a 'coach', and two... well... because you are in a room, alone with this guy you have feelings for that you desperately try to suppress.

"Take everything off, except your top and pants," you nod at his order and begin to remove your jewelry, cardigan, and other accessories. "Before we start, there are a few things that are a must to follow " Leon speaks up, taking off his shoes next.

"Okay. What is it?"

"First and foremost," he pauses, standing tall with his hands on his hips, "You will have to be focused and pay close attention at all times during these lessons. Knife and self-defense techniques require precision and quick thinking. So, there's minimal to no room for hesitations or distractions." 

You nod in agreement when deep down, you know that's already too challenging for you. It's quite impossible to not get distracted by Leon, and his attractive looks-

STOP! Remember! Your priority is to stay professional and get over him.

You don't say anything. Instead, you shake your head in agreement.

"Secondly, keep in mind that our goal is for you to learn self-defense and how to hold a knife to only defend yourself and ensure your safety. Do not use it to your advantage and harm other individuals or pick up fights," again, you nod, listening carefully to what he says.

You can't deny it...but his stringency, and the way he looks at you kind of intimidates you, yet...allures you.

"Thirdly, now that you work with us, you have to be alert to your surroundings. Potential threats can be everywhere. We don't want a repeat of what happened in Rosewood, so make the most of what I'll teach you," he pauses for a moment, his eyes tacked on yours the whole time. "And lastly, we have short time on our hands. The lessons will be few. So there won't be a single dismissed. Understood?"

"Yes." You firmly reply, your hands resting behind your lower back.

"Good," he says before grabbing a gym mattress from the corner of the room. "Ready to begin?"

"Mhm," Once you respond, Leon places the mattress on the floor and steps onto it.

"Let's not waste any time. Come here, and stand on the mattress." Carefully following his instructions, you walk towards the center of the small arena, stepping onto the large mattress. Leon is now standing across you, yet the distance is not big.

"Since you are completely inexperienced, we will start with the very basics of self-defense."

"Wait- I thought we would do knife lessons?" you ask, momentarily forgetting his earlier mention of self-defense training. Leon regains his posture, crossing his arms. "You didn't say anything about self-defense lessons,"

"Knife lessons are part of self-defense too," Leon explains. "However, they're complex, and it surely requires a certain level of skill and practice to execute them effectively, so I think it's best if we dedicated the knife lessons for later, once you will become confident enough with your moves," he suggests, his tone firm, his eyes focused on you. "For now, let's focus on self-defense and breaking free from different holds. Okay?"

"Alright, you know best." you say, willing to trust his judgment. Leon gives a firm nod, positioning himself, and spreading very lightly his legs.

"Few of the very common attacks intruders use are from behind when the target is unaware of their approach. One of them is the rear chokehold. The most expected. So, this is one of the holds I will teach you various ways to break free," You nod, your hands still resting behind your lower back. Leon is already going to teach you the attack the intruder back in Rosewood used on you. Goddmamn it. Why are you so nervous so suddenly?

Leon lifts his gaze to look at you standing right across from you, "Ready?"

"Yes," you reply affirmatively. Just then, Leon turns around, making you frown in confusion.

"Attack me," your eyes flicker in surprise.

"Uhm-..what?" taken aback by his sudden request.

"You will pretend to be the attacker, so I can demonstrate one of the techniques," he clarifies, facing away from you. "Come from behind me and try to grab me into a chokehold."

Well. That escalated.

"You want me to- choke you?" Leon turns back around, blinking at your bold question.

"Not..literally," he emphasizes. "Here, let me show you," he pauses and walks towards you, positioning himself behind you. In one smooth motion, he wraps his dominant arm around your neck, while the other hand locks it with his fingers in order to 'lock' you. His hold against your throat is very loose, just to show you what he means.

"Like this," he says. Memorizing his motions, you nod and Leon pulls away. He once again turns around, letting you replicate his movements.

You slowly approach him, noticing that wide back of his...through his dark blue t-shirt. Leon remains motionless waiting for your move, his head facing the floor. Taking a deep breath, you slowly raise yourself just a tiny bit on your toes, wrapping your arm around his neck, and locking him into a chokehold with your other hand. His body tensed, not moving a single inch as you adjust your hold on him. Your grip is very light, in order not to harm him in any way.

"Don't be afraid to hurt me. Use your strength." he encourages.

"Are you sure?" You ask, still unsure. 

"Yes, go ahead," He reassures you, so you slowly begin to tighten your grip around his neck. Your chest is touching now the back of his body.

This motherfucker is built like a damn rock.

"When someone has their arm wrapped around your neck, the first thing you need to do is stay calm. Do not panic, or else this will show the enemy you are threatened by them," Leon instructs. "Next, you need to act quickly in order to regain control of the situation and break free, unharmed." 

He then places his hand on your forearm which is wrapped around his neck to demonstrate. "Make sure to place your hand on the enemy's forearm, to prevent them from applying pressure on your neck," Leon advises

Not even a second later, he begins the demonstration in slow motion, explaining each move as he executes them. "Solar plexus," he demonstrates, lightly striking your stomach with his elbow. "Instep," he steps on your foot. "Nose," he barely touches your nose with his knuckles, considering your recent injury because you don't want to have another plaster on you for another three weeks. "And abdomen." He lastly demonstrates another light elbow strike without making contact with your lower region. 

He then repeats the demonstration, yet this time at normal speed, just so you can take in the break-free hold better.

"Solar plexus, instep, nose, and abdomen," Leon repeats as you both pull away. "Think you got it?"

"I think so," you reply, quite unsure. 

"Let's give this a try then," Leon suggests, before walking right behind you once more. He gently wraps his arm around your throat and uses his other hand to lock the hold, pretending to be the attacker. His touch remains loose to ensure your safety and give you the opportunity to execute the move correctly.

And you do execute it...poorly as fuck.

Panic begins to overwhelm you, causing you to forget the sequence. Instead of following Leon's exact moves, you stomp on his foot and knock your elbow into his groin with more force than intended. Leon groans in pain, immediately releasing you and placing his bandaged hand against his crotch. He literally folded...

"What the fuck-" he almost whispers in surprise, the pain evident in his voice.

"I-..you said I should use strength-" you stutter, reaching out to him, holding him by his shoulders to offer support.

"Not that much.." he replies as calmly as he can, trying his best to regain his composure, despite the pain. That moment you realized that maybe you misunderstood the way Leon said 'Use your strength'. You are really dumb, just so you know.

"I'm so sorry, Leon- I-.." your cheeks flush with embarrassment and guilt.

"It's...alright..." he says, the pain in his voice more than obvious as he slowly tries to stand back on his feet. "Give me a minute....we will go again.." you quickly nod, feeling extremely apologetic. Poor guy had already a hand wrapped in gauze, a throbbing headache, and you had unintentionally delivered a painful blow that almost rendered him unable to have kids. "And do NOT use your strength this time.."

That will go well...

----

The doors of the bunker open and Chris rushes inside, followed closely by Piers. The urgency in Piers' voice is evident as he addresses the team's captain,

"You can't keep ignoring this, Captain!" He raises his voice, walking assertively behind Chris. Frustration is written all over his face as he continues, "The results spoke for themselves. You still refuse to accept it?!"

Chris lets out a tired sigh, coming to a halt, and turns to face Piers. "Accept what?" he asks, his irritation apparent.

"That Saddler is alive!" Piers' declaration captures Carlos and Claire's attention. Startled, they stand up to listen to the conversation unfolding before them.

"What?-"

"I read Leon's report about his mission on the Island three times, and there's no mention of Saddler being burnt. Leon witnessed the outbreak only after leaving the island. Saddler fell into the sea and 'died' from excessive bleeding," Piers interjects, bypassing Carlos and Claire's presence. Chris shakes his head in denial as his face shows a mix of anger and disbelief.

"So, it's actually Saddler?" Carlos asks, stunned. Piers turns his gaze at him.

"He is, and I am sure that he is the one who has the suitcase." He states with confidence, before turning his attention back to the leader. "We've been on this mission for two months, and all we do is 'search', without capitalizing on the intel we already have."

Claire remains silent, watching Piers literally lecturing her brother.

"And how the fuck did he survive?!" Chris retorts, raising his voice in frustration. 

"With someone's help, apparently," Piers replies coldly. "It could be another member of the cult we didn't identify," Carlos stands still, as he recalls the team that ambushed him and Leon a month ago...

-

"Who are you?" Leon inquires sternly, his eyebrows furrowing in cautiousness.

"Let's say, someone who wants a buy a suitcase, perhaps." Harris hints, leaving Leon and Carlos momentarily speechless.

-

Carlos leans forward, "These men asked us- hell, they almost forced us to join them in order to help them get the suitcase," he pauses briefly, looking around all the members of the team. "They know we are after it." He emphasizes the word 'we', pointing to him and Leon. "Someone out there knows that our team exists, and our plans. They tried to bait us by telling us they know the location and the owner," Piers frowns in slight disbelief at what he hears. "They were not even surprised to see me and Leon instead of B.S.A.A. soldiers or you, as you believed from what the envelope wrote."

-

"I'm a direct man, so let's get straight to business, shall we?" Harris taunts, taking one step closer. "Look around you, mister Kennedy, we all are here for the same thing," his expression shifts to seriousness. "And we both know what that is," his gaze briefly turns from Leon to Carlos before returning to Leon. "With your cooperation, we will be able to retrieve the suitcase."

"And what are you going to do with the samples?" Carlos asks.

"That is not something for you to know about. Your job will be to follow the orders," Harris coldly responds as he starts pacing back and forth in slow motion. "Come on. You need our help. Because," a smile creeps on his lips. "I have the location of the suitcase and know who is the owner." he declares with a voice filled with taunt. His steps abruptly stop, returning to face them again.  

"Do you?"

-

 "Someone out there knows that our team exists, and our plans. They tried to bait us by telling us they know the location and the owner,"

- 

"The men that trapped us.." Carlos mutters almost to himself, the realization striking him hard as those flashbacks replay in his mind. "The team back at Rosewood may have helped Saddler escape and survive!" he exclaims out loud his hypotheses. Chris, Piers, and Claire look at him, the bold assumption bringing silence to the room. Carlos hurriedly rushes to the table and grabs the letter they had received 'anonymously'. "It's written right here: if we want the suitcase, we should go and get it."

Chris shakes his head once again, unable to fully comprehend what is going on. "They said they know who has the samples, who says they aren't the ones who revived Saddler? He has what they want."

"Yeah but-" Claire speak up. "Why were this persistent to cooperate with you and Leon, if they are the ones who got Saddler out of there?" Carlos shrugs his shoulders, unable to find an answer. "That means they have access to the syringes."

Things just keep getting more tangled...

"Okay...Alright.." Chris takes a deep breath, attempting to pause the matter temporarily and take a break from all this. "Piers, I want you to bring me Leon's report. We have to arrange a meeting with the team," he instructs with a firm tone. Piers responds with a nod, before walking towards the exit. As Piers exits the base, Chris turns his attention back to the rest of the team and realizes that only Carlos and Claire are still inside. "Where is Leon? I need to talk to him." 

"Well- he's..is at the training room," Claire replies, still puzzled of the reason Leon is there. Chris's head twitches in confusion.

"At the training room? Why?"

"To train (y/n) apparently," Carlos speaks up. Something that Chris doesn't seem particularly pleased to hear.

"What?"

"I brought the coffee, yet not a lady's number." Luis' voice grabs everyone's attention. After almost two hours, the biologist showed up finally with Leon's coffee. He notices the grumpy atmosphere in the base and his smirk slowly disappears. Yet, he seems unfazed. "I only went missing for two hours. What happened?"

----

"Alright, now it's your turn," Leon says panting as he stands back across you. With his forearm, he wipes the moistness off of him that is dripping down his neck and reddened face.

Both of your bodies are covered in literal sweat. His shirt is soaked and tacked onto his torso, showing off his athletic physique. Yours on the other hand is not that wet, only exposing a bit of the outline of your bra. It had only been almost 50 minutes, but it felt like it had been 5 hours. This guy trains you as you will go to the fucking military.

It's the first session, and he had already shown you techniques for back and front attacks, break-free holds, and a few very basic punishing attacks. You literally wonder what he had left to teach you. If there was anything left at all.

The last hold of the day you are about to try now is the bear hug. Leon already demonstrated how to break free from the attack and this is the third time you attempt to do the execution. Hopefully, correct this time.

You both go back, positioning yourselves. Leon stands behind you once more until his arms get wrapped around you from behind, simulating the bear hug as he mimics the attacker. His grasp this time is firm, closing the space between you two. The backside of your body is pressing a bit hard against his chest to the point where your lower back can feel everything from Leon's front body.

"Come on, use the technique I showed you," he says. His head right beside yours, his breath slapping your shoulder violently, and brushing against your hair.

You feel your heart ready to burst out of your chest. Hearing his heavy breathing in your ear, as dots of his sweat fall on your shoulder- God.... he's that close...you just- want him to fucking kiss your neck right now.

But! Remain. Professional. Get. Fucking. Over. Leon.

"We don't have all day, (y/n). Go on," you hear Leon's tense voice against your ear from behind you, waiting for you to execute.

"The technique- right.." you mutter, snapping yourself back to reality.

"Remember, do it slow so you can get used to your moves," Leon remarks, as his hold remains tightened around you, waiting for you to break free from him.

Nodding, you begin to place your hands on his forearms, just above the elbows, and spread open your legs, to keep your balance so Leon won't pin you on the floor.

Leon plays along, pretending to resist your attempts. Due to his experience and physical strength, it takes you effort once again to break free. He sees that, yet he continues to be a bit strict this time and does not loosen up. He hugs you tightly, as his left hand hugs his right forearm to keep his hold locked around you.

The closeness and intimacy of the situation heightens the conflict within you. His soaked body is rubbing up against yours, while you try to 'break free' from his tight hold. The constant battle about your feelings towards him begins to tire you already. A part of you wants to concentrate solely on the training, while another part relish the physical closeness to Leon.

As you resist by keeping your balance, you squat, just like Leon instructed earlier, and your bottom presses against his crotch before you stomp- of course without using strength this time – on his foot and pretend to headbutt him.

"Very good," he praises, releasing his hold from you, pulling away. You can feel the mixture of his and your sweat trickling down your arms, evidence of the hard work you both had done in the very first training session "You learn quick," he adds, attempting to joke about your failed attempts. 

You lightly chuckle at his sarcastic comment.

"If you say so," you say with a faint smile, wiping the remaining of your sweat from your forehead. 

Unexpectedly, the door of the training room opens, and to your surprise, you see Chris standing there, not entering the room. His hand against the doorknob.

"Leon, we need to talk," he says firmly, without any greeting or pleasantries. When Chris is like that, things are usually quite serious. 

Leon agrees and turns back at you for a moment. 

"You can get dressed. Training's over," he says and you nod, making your way towards your belongings. Leon grabs his shoulder holster, leaving for a bit his shoes and tactical belt behind as he follows Chris to the exit.

--

Chris exits the training room with his emotions visibly tense. Leon follows, adjusting the holster on him as Chris stops his footsteps, and crosses his arms, making sure not to hide his annoyance. 

"What are you doing, Leon?" he questions with a slightly irritated tone.

"What are you talking about?" Leon asks, trying to control his intense breathing.

"You're training (y/n). For what reason?" Chris continues in a slightly pesky tone, making Leon's gaze hardens. "How many times do I have to say that her only role is to give us medical treatment?"

"And let Piers degrade her in front of everyone like that?" Leon speaks up, raising his voice ever so slightly. Chris remains silent for a few seconds. "I heard him when he asked you to kick her out of the team, the day she got back to the base from the hospital when the main reason she got there was because of me," Leon admits to Chris, feeling the weight of guilt hit him once again. 

Chris's gaze softens, turning into surprise. "What?"

"She could be dead back at Rosewood, and all of that because I was unable to protect her as I promised," Leon replies sternly, his cold gaze returning as if a switch had been flipped, yet the tone in his voice conveys remorse and guilt. "She tried to fight one of the armed men that ambushed me, in order to help me escape their grasp. That man she fought against could easily pull the trigger and end her life in a second...The least I can do is train her to protect herself," he pauses, leaning backwards. "That way, Piers won't complain either."

Chris sighs, breaking contact with Leon. "I swore to her parents' safety, Leon." he pauses, feeling uneasy. "I will not betray their trust."

"Then let me train her," Leon insists. "You want her in the team because you trust her. So let me help." Leon's expression remains emotionless as Chris looks back at him, torn between whether he should let Leon try and train her or not.

"Why are you doing this, Leon?" Chris asks. "Because you care for her safety? Or out of guilt?"

Leon stands silently, his eyes never leaving Chris's. "It doesn't matter," he sternly replies. Chris nods lightly, taking a deep breath.

"Alright. Then...the training room is yours..."

---- 

Unexpected ending scene because this chapter would be endless bruh.

Quick thank you for 31K reads! I AM SO THANKFUL REALLY! You have no clue how much it means to me to read comments and see messages of you enjoying the fanfic. It really means everything to me, and I mean it! <3

Have a great and lovely day! <3 <3