can—”
I interrupted him.
“You challenged a thirteen-year-old child to demonstrate your strength. Then you challenged his father because he asked for an apology.”
I paused.
“Don’t start changing the rules because you’re losing.”
Several parents nodded.
Blake glanced around the room.
For the first time, he seemed to understand that the spectators were no longer impressed by him.
And that realization made the situation more dangerous.
Humiliation can bring out the worst in someone whose entire identity depends on being feared.
Without warning, Blake lunged.
His right fist came
toward my face.
I moved aside.
Another punch followed.
Then another.
His movements were no longer disciplined combinations. He was swinging out of anger, no longer concerned with demonstrating skill.
He wanted to hurt me.
When his right arm extended too far, I caught it, turned with his movement, and brought him onto the mat.
This time, I maintained control of his wrist and shoulder.
