MY PERFECT BODY GUARD CHAPTER TWENTY :NUMBERED RIVALS

The gym was bustling with activity as 40 trainees engaged in their morning workout routines. Each of them was diligently working on their assigned exercises to enhance their physique. Some were energetically punching the heavy bags, while others were focused on running on the treadmills. The gym buzzed with a variety of fitness activities as the trainees dedicated themselves to their early morning routine.

As they busily went about their exercises, Sir Jacob made his entrance. He knocked on the gym door, his usual cheerful demeanor slightly diminished. This unexpected change caught the attention of all the trainees, causing them to pause their workouts and gather around him, curious about the reason for his visit. However, just before he began speaking, a warm smile crossed his face.

"Before I continue," Sir Jacob began, "I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and the incredible progress you've made in becoming better protectors." He paused, a sense of gravity in his words.

"It hasn't been an easy journey, but here you all are today," he continued. "I feel that the time has come for us to select the top twenty bodyguards among you. The authorities who assigned us to this mission now require your services, and our initial goal was to have a team of twenty highly skilled bodyguards. I hope I've made myself clear."

"Yes, sir!" The entire group of trainees responded in unison.

Jacob continued, "Instead of going through a lengthy testing process, I've come up with a more efficient way to select the top twenty. We'll have a hand-to-hand combat competition."

The announcement stirred a mix of reactions in the room. Some trainees embraced the idea with enthusiasm, while others, like 18-year-old Richard, felt a sense of trepidation. Richard wasn't certain about his chances and feared this might mark the end of his journey.

Meanwhile, Mike, who was physically strong and well-built, saw this as a significant advantage. He couldn't help but express his confidence, adding to the room's excitement. 

Richard, however, couldn't contain his curiosity. "Sir, why does it have to be a hand-to-hand combat competition?" he asked.

Jacob explained, "It's the quickest way to determine the top twenty individuals among you. I'm sorry, Richard, but you've come this far, and I believe you have a shot." Try and believe in your self he said Richard sighed

"Understood, sir," the trainees replied in unison.

Jacob continued to clarify the process. "The combat will begin with a draw. We'll have a box containing numbers from 1 to 20, with each number appearing twice. If two trainees draw the same number, they will face each other in the combat."

The trainees nodded in agreement, ready to participate in this unique selection process.

As the trainees gathered in Jacob's office to draw their balls, tension filled the air. Each ball appeared identical in every way, making it a true game of chance. After everyone had picked a ball, they moved to the warehouse, where Jacob rolled all the balls together.

The moment of truth arrived as they began opening their balls one by one to reveal their numbers. Richard, feeling a sense of dread, hesitantly opened his ball and saw the number 13. He couldn't believe his luck when he raised his hand to inquire who else had drawn number 13, and Kelvin, the most imposing figure in the program known for his immense strength, indicated that he was the one.

Richard couldn't help but lament his fate, wondering why the universe had seemingly conspired against him. He muttered in frustration, "Why is the universe so cruel to me?"

Kelvin, on the other hand, smiled and casually said, "See you around, kid."

As the number unveiling continued, Richard turned to his friend Shun, who also drew a ball. Curious, Richard asked, "Who did you pick?"

Shun wore a solemn expression and replied, "You won't believe it."

"Who?" Richard pressed.

Shun motioned behind Richard, and as he turned around, his eyes widened in disbelief. It was Mike, approaching with a smile. Richard couldn't believe his misfortune as Mike greeted them both.

Annoyed, Richard told Mike to leave, but Mike simply taunted, "Well, I will. See you around tomorrow, mate. You'd better be ready unless you have a death wish."

Shun, now panicking, realized he also faced an imposing challenge. He was lean and not known for his physical prowess, and he knew he couldn't take on Mike.

Richard offered Shun some words of encouragement, saying, "Don't give up just yet. Mike is trying to mess with your head. If you let him, he'll have the upper hand tomorrow. You need to strengthen your mentality. Come on, let's go train a bit before the fight tomorrow."

They left for the boxing arena, determined to prepare as best as they could for the upcoming challenges.