[center][color=teal][h2]Jessamyn "Jess" Bailey[/h2][/color][/center]

Jess blushed. Not because of embarrassment, but because of Roxy's surprisingly gentle touch on her hand. A sign that the distance between them may finally be starting to close, or so she hoped. As instructed, she clenched her fist tight, tilting her knuckles forward. [color=teal]"Is this better?"[/color]

She studied Roxy's stance as she watched her throw a punch, once again awed by the sheer force and finesse of the move. Once it was her turn, she donned a pair of padded gloves and spread her feet wide, positioning her fist as the anchor had explained. She braced herself, not just physically but mentally - even if it hurt, it was better than being defenseless. [color=teal]"Here goes..."[/color] Drawing her arm back, she slammed her fist into the bag. Even with the warning, the sting of the impact made her yelp.

[color=teal]"Ok, I see what you mean. But still."[/color] Massaging her fingers, Jess gave a faint smile. [color=teal]"No pain, no gain, huh?"[/color]