Hesitate and Lose

***Marcella***

My back slammed against the cool mat, the breath jolting from my chest as I closed my eyes. Every muscle ached, a hollow throb pulsing in my ribs with each inhale.

“Come on, Cella, we are not finished.”

Pat’s voice loomed above me, sharp and unrelenting.

“I’m so tired,” I breathed, the words slipping out with a shaky exhale.

“You think Dmitri will care that you’re tired?” Pat spat,