Page 30 of The Moonborn's Curse

Hagan wiped the dirt off his hands and grinned down at Airlia. "Okay, stand like this."

Airlia copied his stance, legs apart, fists up, brow furrowed in concentration. "Like this?"

"Almost." He stepped closer, nudging her foot with his own. "Wider. You'll fall over if someone pushes you."

She adjusted, biting her lip. "Like this?"

He gave a sharp nod. "Good. Now punch me."

Her eyes widened. "What?"

"Punch me," he repeated, tapping his chin. "Right here."

She hesitated, then swung. It was clumsy, and she barely made contact before Hagan caught her wrist and twisted her arm slightly, correcting her form.

"Too slow," he said smugly.

Airlia scowled. "You're bigger than me."

"And that shouldn't stop you from trying," he countered. "Use my size against me"

She grumbled but listened as he showed her how to punch properly, how to shift her weight, how to dodge instead of just taking the hit. She was so focused that she didn't notice when someone else approached.

"Hey, can I help?"

They both turned to see Dain standing nearby, arms crossed.

Airlia brightened. "Really?"

But before she could say more, Hagan stepped in front of her. "No."

Dain blinked. "Why not?"

"Cause I'm teaching her," Hagan said firmly.

Dain raised an eyebrow. "So? I can teach her too."

Hagan's jaw tightened. "She doesn't need more than one teacher."

Airlia peeked around him, confused. "Hale, it's not a big deal—"

"Yes, it is," Hagan said quickly, not looking at her.

Dain smirked. "Are you jealous?"

Hagan's ears turned red. "No!"

Airlia tilted her head. "Are you?"

Hagan turned on her. "Do you want him to teach you?"

She frowned. "I mean... I don't mind—"

"Then go ask someone else," Hagan muttered, turning away.

Dain laughed. "Wow, possessive much? She has even changed your name!"

Hagan ignored him, stalking off.

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