The Arranged Marriage

18

Today marked the day before the main event, a day filled with anticipation and adrenaline as we trained for what lay ahead. I've always had a fascination with guns and tactical training, perhaps fueled by my avid gaming experiences in Call of Duty. Ash had promised to take me to the police camp after our training session, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.

We began with basic training exercises to warm up, starting with mud wrestling, running drills, and a challenging ball game. Mud wrestling was a skill I seemed to have honed without even trying, thanks to countless playful bouts with my mischievous siblings. As a former relay runner, I knew I had some catching up to do in terms of fitness, but a bit of practice would do me good.

The ball game, however, was a different story. It posed a challenge that made me a bit apprehensive, adding an element of excitement and nervousness to the day.

Ash and I geared up for a mud wrestling match in the practice area, surrounded by the remnants of previous training sessions. The thought of how many people had grappled and wrestled in the same mud made me shudder, but I pushed the thought aside, focusing on Ash's guidance and encouragement. His tips and tricks were invaluable as we prepared for our match.

The trials were intense and surprisingly intimate, the sticky mud adding a layer of challenge as we grappled and maneuvered, each touch revealing curves and contours that got Ash a bit distracted. Despite his momentary distraction, I managed to use the mud to my advantage, leading to a playful victory.

Throughout the day, we continued to practice diligently, fine-tuning our skills and strategies for the upcoming event.

Xxxx

Ash kept his promise and took me to his camp, and the excitement bubbling inside me was palpable. I dashed through the corridors, Ash trailing behind to ensure I didn't get into any mischief. His protective demeanor was both endearing and slightly amusing.

As we entered the camp, I couldn't help but notice the way his juniors eyed me, sizing me up as if I were some sort of delightful treat. I basked in the attention, enjoying the playful jealousy that sparked in Ash. His possessive gesture of wrapping his arms around my shoulders only added to the fun.

I begged Ash to let me use a sniper rifle. I had a soft spot for snipers, thanks to my love for the COD game. Despite my persistent pleas and promises to handle it with care, Ash remained steadfast in his decision to not let me anywhere near the snipers. I pouted and gave him the cold shoulder, pretending to be upset.

Throughout the day, I maintained my icy demeanor, relishing in Ash's attempts to win me back with sweet gestures and apologies. His colleagues couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the typically stoic and composed Asher, now a bit of a softie when it came to his wife.

In the end, of course, I couldn't stay mad at him for long. His charm and genuine effort to make amends melted my resolve, and soon enough, we were back to our playful selves, enjoying each other's company amidst the camaraderie of the camp.

xxxx

Today was the main event, the culmination of months of preparation and anticipation—the Annual Police Adventure Challenge Phase 1. It wasn't just a competition; it was a battlefield where I faced not only physical obstacles but also the turbulent emotions swirling inside me.

Running, typically a test of endurance, now became a test of my inner strength and resolve. With every step, I battled against the jealousy that threatened to consume me, fueled by Vanessa's presence. She was more than just my opponent; she was someone who shared a closeness with Asher that I couldn't ignore. Each stride echoed my determination to prove myself, not just as Asher's wife but as Aria, a force to be reckoned with.

As we raced, the intensity of our competition mirrored the tumultuous emotions within me. I couldn't help but wonder about the moments they shared, the conversations that excluded me. But amidst these doubts, I refused to let them distract me. I pushed myself harder, my heart pounding not just from exertion but from the overwhelming emotions threatening to derail me.

The cheers from the sidelines were a distant echo as I focused solely on the finish line, my eyes fixed on proving my capabilities, not just to others but to myself and perhaps even to Asher. Crossing that finish line felt like a triumph over my doubts and insecurities, a testament to my resilience and determination.

Winning in the mud wrestling and ball game alongside Ash was more than just a victory; it was a testament to our teamwork, strategy, and unwavering determination. In the mud wrestling ring, the slippery terrain added an extra layer of challenge, but with Ash's guidance and support, we navigated it with precision. The sticky mud became a symbol of our synchronized efforts, showcasing our ability to work seamlessly as a team.

The ball game tested our coordination and communication, where Ash's tactical expertise and my agility complemented each other perfectly. Our chemistry on the court translated into strategic plays and crucial points that secured our win. Each challenge strengthened the bond between us, reinforcing our trust in each other's abilities and proving that together, we were an unstoppable force.

Being one of the six pairs to pass Phase 1 of the Annual Police Adventure Challenge filled me with a mix of excitement and apprehension. The upcoming Phase 2 promised an adventure in the forest, set for the day after tomorrow. While I was thrilled at the prospect of the next challenge, a nagging feeling of unease crept into my mind.

Despite my excitement, a sense of foreboding lingered, like an ominous cloud on the horizon. I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was amiss, that there was more to the challenge than met the eye. Perhaps it was the intensity of the competition or the unknown variables waiting for us in the forest

Nevertheless, I tried to push aside my concerns and focus on the task ahead. Phase 2 was a new adventure, a chance to test our skills and teamwork in a different setting. I knew Ash and I were a formidable team, but the uncertainty of what awaited us added an extra layer of anticipation and nerves.

As we prepared for the forest adventure, I couldn't help but wonder what challenges and surprises lay in store for us. The thrill of the unknown mingled with a sense of caution, creating a mix of emotions that kept me on edge yet eager to face whatever came our way.