章節 3: CALEB
The sun dips low, casting long shadows on the concrete canvas. A symphony of wheels whispers secrets as teenage skaters glide effortlessly, their boards dancing beneath them. The air is thick with the scent of youth and freedom, a heady mix of adrenaline and anticipation. Each trick, each grind, is a brushstroke on the masterpiece of the moment. The rhythmic thud of wheels on concrete blends with the soft hum of conversations, creating a harmonious soundtrack to the spectacle. A peaceful haven, where worries melt away and the spirit soars. The skatepark, a sanctuary of joy, where every spin and flip is a testament to the boundless energy of youth. Everyone gaze fell on a boy probably in his year 18 or 19, the newcomer rolled into the park, his presence immediately commanding attention. He was lean, yet muscular, with a physique honed by hours of practice. His dark hair, styled in a short, neat cut, framed a strong jawline and piercing blue eyes. Clad in a well-worn t-shirt that clung to his defined arms, he exuded an air of confidence. His worn-out jeans, paired with a pair of rugged sneakers, completed his athletic look. The kid step into the skating pit and started showing his skills. Every trick he did was smooth, effortless, and perfect. The local skaters, who thought they were pretty good, were stunned. They'd never seen anyone skate like that.
A group of them, the park's usual top dogs, were especially jealous. They'd always been the best, but now this newcomer was stealing the show. They watched him, their faces a mix of awe and annoyance. They tried to up their game, but it was clear they couldn't compete. The newbie, meanwhile, was just having fun, showing off his skills without any ego.
The humiliation was too much for them to bear and they decide to test the new guy out and see what he's up to. The leader of the group Fred, the undisputed leader of the gang, was a formidable figure. His broad shoulders and muscular build spoke of countless street fights and brawls. A jagged scar, a stark reminder of a past confrontation, ran across his left cheek, adding a touch of menace to his already intimidating appearance.
The scar was a testament to his ruthless nature and unwavering determination. Years ago, during a heated turf war, he'd faced off against a rival gang leader. A vicious knife fight had ensued, leaving Fred with a permanent mark on his face. But the scar had done more than just disfigure him; it had transformed him into a legend, a symbol of fear and respect. Everyone at the park always respect him and is afraid of him, but the new guy showed up with no iota of fear in his face and fearlessly humiliate Fred and his gang, this looks like an insult that won't go unpunished. Fred stepped forward, he rolled up his sleeve ready to fight. " Yo!" He shouted, frowning his face to look more dreadful, the new kid without knowing he's being called continue his business, showcasing his skills. Fred's countenance change, he's more furious than ever now, he tapped on his gangs and decide to teach the newbie a lesson he'll never forget, they grabbed their board and decide to distract him and make him slip so hard he hit his head.
" What are these guys up to" Caleb watching the guys skating all around him wondered what they were up to, he knew for sure whatever they are up to is no good to him, nevertheless he continue skating but remain vigilant expecting any form of trouble.
Fred, making sure his gang are ready to strike signal with a whistle. The whistle pierced the air, a signal for chaos. Fred and his gang surged forward, encircling Caleb. Their boards became weapons, their movements calculated and aggressive. With a swift, coordinated maneuver, they forced Caleb off balance. He stumbled, his board slipping from his grasp. A collective gasp echoed through the park as Caleb plummeted to the hard concrete.
The gang, their faces twisted with malicious glee, watched as Caleb lay motionless on the ground. They had succeeded. The newcomer, the threat to their dominance, had been humbled.
" That's all you got big boy, huh?" Fred Smirked at the injured Caleb, his gang circling him and Caleb. Holding his chest, it hurts and it seem dislocated, his struggle to get on his feet, after a second step he felt a punch on his cheek sending him back to the floor, the spectators gasped, some praying the cops were there or they leave the boy alone, while some wants to see what will end the fight.
" You don't mess with me boy " Fred said squatting to be on the same level with Caleb's face. Caleb's face is bruised and his nose is bleeding. He's really furious, and couldn't help but act. He land a kick on Fred's Scrotum making him wriggle in pain and agony. His gang stopped circling with their board and decide to attack Caleb
Caleb, dazed and disoriented, struggled to his feet. Pain shot through his body as he tried to steady himself. Caleb knew he couldn't back down. He squared his shoulders and faced his attackers.
A brawl erupted, a whirlwind of fists and flying boards. The once peaceful skatepark transformed into a chaotic battleground. Caleb, despite being outnumbered, fought with a ferocity born of desperation. He dodged, weaved, and countered, landing powerful blows on his assailants.
After sending everyone to the ground with either a broken leg, arm or nose, he lick his own blood and spit it out. " Y'all don't mess with me" he Smirked, carrying his board in his left hand, he shrug his shoulder many times and get ready to go home leaving the gang there writhing in pain. Everyone else left the scene happy that the bully get what he deserved and it was unexpected from such a nerd
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Caleb limped down the street, his body aching and his spirit battered. His once clean t-shirt was now tattered and stained with dirt and blood. A dark bruise marred his cheek, a stark reminder of the brutal fight he had just endured. Despite the physical toll, a sense of triumph lingered within him. He had faced adversity and emerged victorious.
As he walked, he couldn't help but think about the events of the day. The fear, the anger, the adrenaline rush, and the ultimate satisfaction of defeating his tormentors. He knew that the battle was far from over, but for now, he had reclaimed his peace. With a newfound determination, he vowed to protect his newfound freedom, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Bullying is not a strange thing to him and it has been happening since his former school days .
Caleb had always been an easy target. His quiet demeanor and timid nature made him an ideal victim for the school bullies. From the moment he stepped into the schoolyard, he was subjected to a relentless barrage of taunts, jeers, and physical abuse.
The bullies, led by the arrogant and domineering Fred, would often trip him in the hallways, steal his lunch money, and vandalize his belongings. They would mock his appearance, his intelligence, and his social awkwardness, leaving him feeling isolated and ashamed.
Caleb had tried to ignore the bullying, hoping that it would eventually stop. But the torment only intensified, affecting his self-esteem and academic performance. He often retreated into himself, avoiding social interactions and spending most of his time alone.
The constant bullying had taken a significant toll on Caleb's mental health. He suffered from anxiety, depression, and a deep sense of loneliness. He often contemplated giving up, but something within him kept him going. He yearned for a day when he could finally stand up to his tormentors and reclaim his dignity. Getting tutor from just mere fighting videos, practicing the moves day and night has make him a really good fighter and now he's ready to face any form of bully. He vowed to never show sympathy to them anymore
Getting closer to his house not even minding his torn shirt and bruised face he went in like a tired old man returning from his farmland after dealing with his pigs and naughty animals.
" Hey, Ca....le..b" a man probably in his 30s, with a huge muscular body, sauntered into the room. His broad shoulders and bulging biceps were a testament to countless hours spent in the gym. Clad in a simple t-shirt that stretched taut across his muscular frame, he exuded an aura of raw power and confidence. His short, dark hair was styled in a modern undercut, framing his strong jawline and piercing blue eyes. He looked sternly at Caleb with a furious gaze. " What happened to you Caleb" he said with a deep low voice sending fear through Caleb's spine, he hold tight to his board and fixed his face on the floor.
" Didn't you hear what I said, hmm" the man asked again moving toward Caleb with a low pace " I am talking to you boy, did you get into a fight again?" Caleb scared to his bone looked up reluctantly, " I was just trying to avoid being bullied, so we got into a fight" he added "I'm sorry dad"
Caleb's dad with a fierce look hold the boy hand and ask "So you want to avoid being bullied and you got your ass kicked right?" He said in a really threatening voice. "I..." Caleb stuttered, his voice barely a whisper, as he opened his mouth to speak. But before he could utter another word, a sharp knock interrupted the silence, echoing through the room.
" Who's there"
" Mr Alfred! Can I see your for a minute sir " the stranger said. Alfred pat caleb shoulder " I'll be back" Caleb sat on the couch awaiting his judgement
"Good afternoon, Mrs William" Alfred said with a smile. "Good afternoon sir" Mrs William said with a frown " Erm, Mr Alfred I don't think since you guys came here, we've ever gotten into fight. Right?" With a confused face Alfred answered "Yeah, why would we fight?" Mrs William gets a little closer and said " Your son came to the skating park today and beat up my son and his friends"
" Oh, I'm reallly sorry madam "
" I don't wanna hear that, talk to your son, if he feels like fighting he should go for boxing not testing out his might on other kids" Mrs William retorted and left
" I'm sorry Mrs William " Alfred shouted
He slammed the door closed and pace toward Caleb, giving him a stern look. "Stand up" he said looking at the Scaredy birdie, " Yeah, that's my boy. Give me a high five" he said with a broad smile on his face. Caleb grinned with smile too and hug his father
" You know I always want the best for you son, you need to face your fear and don't let anyone dictate your life, it's your life and you decide how to live it okay? If anyone tries to bully you again step on their toes and fight against bullying Alright? Alfred said giving out his speech like he's talking to a soldier while Caleb keep nodding his head in affirmation
" Go get your clothes changed and rest ".
Living with a father has been the most adventurous life to live for Caleb, his father has shaped him to be an independent boy since he's 9, he's fearless and strong. After his mother died it's been him and his father. And Alfred tried everything possible to make him a man and always happy
" Cause that's what I promised your mama" Alfred would always say when cheering Caleb up
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" And my father prepared a special meal for me " Caleb smiled " That's my little adventure today dear diary" he scribble.
Oh what a lovely night, I need to sleep" he yawned, he hit the switch button by his side and switch off the light, turn on his MP3 player
" And I wait all night till Santa comes to wake me from my dream. Oh why, cause that's Christmas to me" was playing a little loud. Caleb was heard snoring under his duvet.
The door creaked and Alfred came in to switch off his son "lullaby" smiling like a satisfied father and gave Caleb a pat on his head
" Good night Superman "
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