Helanie:
I showered and got ready in black shorts and a black top for the battle. On top of that, I wore a long white shirt until I reached the battle ring. I was so anxious, constantly licking my lips to moisten them. I had braided my hair to make sure I did not get distracted during the battle.
My heart was pounding hard in my chest. I didn't eat anything—just had a few slices of freshly cut watermelon.
Nothing could go down my throat in this state.
"Are you mad?" my mother stormed in just as I was about to leave my room to sit in the car with my friends and my husband.
"It's not a good day for an argument. I don't want to do this," I said, trying to step away from her, but she came in my way and blocked my path.
"Are you really going to fight him?" she asked, her face twisted with strong emotions of worry.
"Why do you care?" Her facial expression confused me.
