I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 84

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Fina**

**Chapter 84**

Sophie buried the tumult of emotions from the previous night deep within herself, shoving them into the darkest corners of her mind. She inhaled deeply, allowing the air to fill her lungs, and deliberately tuned out the world that buzzed around her. Rolling her neck to release the tension, she stepped into her training stance, ready to face the challenge ahead. With another deep exhale, she began her routine, focusing solely on the movements that had become second nature to her.

Even though she could feel Torin’s intense gaze piercing through her concentration, she resisted the urge to look up. His presence was a constant reminder of the turmoil she was trying to suppress. As she moved, she felt the heat of his scrutiny, but she was determined to push through.

Suddenly, she felt his hands on her waist, warm and firm against her bare skin. She fought to suppress any reaction, forcing herself to remain composed. “Angle your body slightly,” he instructed, adjusting her posture with a gentle push. “Again,” he commanded, and Sophie complied, diving back into her routine.

As she lost herself in the rhythm of the movements, a sense of release washed over her. The frustration that had been building inside her began to dissipate with each practiced motion. But just when she was starting to feel the sweat bead on her forehead, Torin interrupted her flow. He led her to an empty training ring, his expression serious.

“I observed you last night,” he began, his tone firm yet not unkind. “When you’re on your feet, you hold your own. But once you’re on the mat, it’s like you forget everything.” Sophie scowled at his words, irritation bubbling to the surface, but he seemed unfazed. “Your size doesn’t define your ability to defend yourself. You need to learn to fight back when you’re down.”

He moved into position, gesturing for her to mirror him. “Let’s go,” he urged, and although Sophie felt a twinge of reluctance, she stepped forward. Without waiting for her to settle, he charged at her with a speed that caught her off guard. She ducked instinctively, narrowly avoiding his advance.

“Too slow, Sophie,” he growled, his voice low and challenging.

Fueled by a mix of frustration and determination, Sophie retaliated, launching herself at him with all her might. Yet, he deflected her every attempt with ease, establishing a rhythm that felt both frustrating and exhilarating. Just when she thought she had found her footing, he took her down, pinning her beneath his weight.

“Now, this is where you need to focus,” he said, his voice steady. “When you’re pinned, you can’t just give up. You have to create space between you and your opponent.” He demonstrated, guiding her through the necessary movements. “Straighten your legs, lift your hips, and push your shoulders into the mat. Keep pushing backward so you can’t be pinned. Once you have enough space, shift your hips quickly. Remember, where your hips go, your spine will follow. This will throw off your attacker’s balance. If you get the chance to kick, make it count—hard and fast. And then roll out from under them.”

Sophie absorbed his instructions, her mind racing as she processed each step. They practiced slowly at first, then gradually increased their speed. With each attempt, she felt a flicker of confidence beginning to ignite within her. After a few tries, she was surprised to find herself feeling more empowered than before. Torin stood up and pulled her to her feet, a glimmer of approval in his eyes.

“Madison,” he called out, and Sophie turned to see her friend approaching. “I want Sophie to try something. Pin her, please,” he instructed before walking away, leaving Sophie feeling both anxious and determined.

Madison flashed her a cheeky grin before launching herself at Sophie with surprising speed. Instinct kicked in, and Sophie began to deflect Madison’s strikes, but the moment she dropped her arms, Madison seized the opportunity. In a swift motion, she took Sophie down, aiming to pin her as she had done countless times before.

Normally, this would be the moment Sophie would tap out, surrendering to the inevitable. But today was different. Drawing on the techniques Torin had just taught her, she focused, managed to wriggle free from Madison’s grip, and sprang back to her feet. “I did it!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with a mix of disbelief and triumph.

Setting the food down, she approached him, her heart pounding. Just as she got close, he paused, seemingly aware of her presence. “I made supper and didn’t see you, so I brought you some,” Sophie said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Thanks,” he replied curtly, still not turning to face her.

Sophie felt a wave of frustration rise within her. She knew they needed to talk, and she couldn’t let this moment slip away. She stepped closer, placing her hand gently on his back. He stiffened at her touch, a clear sign of his discomfort. “We need to talk,” she insisted, her voice steady despite her racing heart.

“Not right now,” he replied, his voice tight and filled with agitation as he resumed punching the bag.

Surprised by his dismissal, Sophie took a step back, her heart sinking. “Look, Torin, I’m really sorry for what happened last night. I got upset and took it out on you. I want to make things right between us,” she pleaded, her eyes searching his for any sign of understanding.

“I can’t right now, Sophie,” he said, his tone leaving no room for argument as he continued to strike the bag with relentless force.

Enough was enough. Determined to break through his wall, Sophie moved around to the other side of the bag, grabbing it to shift it just enough to force him to look at her. When he finally did, her breath caught in her throat. “Torin!” she exclaimed, her hands flying to cover her mouth in shock.