My parents enrolled me in a martial arts class when I was a little girl. I think my dad worried about bullying and wanted me to be able to defend myself. It went fine, but like most early teenage hobbies, it died out quickly. The only real thing that stuck in my mind was a boy named Riku. He was a couple years older than me, and much more advanced. We almost never interacted since he was always much more advanced. But I always watched him, his muscular limbs moved so smoothly and easily,with strength and balance. I only was able to speak with him once, and he told me that came from a recently immigrated family who was very traditional.
Soon after, I stopped going, but I always remembered his kindness and strength. Well, if I’m being honest…. he was just super sexy. But that all happened 7 years ago.