Zach dodged the boxing glove that flew to his face. In return Zach made to swipe Conner’s feet but the swipe was a faint to lower Conner’s guard. Successful, Zach attacked with a single quick jab from his right fist. The blow connected and Conner hit the ground.

“Holy shit Zach, you need to let up on the power in your punches. I have boxed my entire life and the first time in the ring with you and you have me seeing stars.” Conner said.

“My bad, it is a force of habit.” Zach apologized, holding out his gloved hand.

Conner took it and Zach pulled him up. There was no one at the gym at this time of night, perfect for a quick sparring match.

“How have your classes been?” Conner asked Zach.

“Not too bad, I learned some of the history, learned to harvest, and a bit more into the dynamics of The Connection’s energy system.” Zach said.

Conner went silent and got quite red in the face when Zach mentioned that he learned to harvest.

“What?” Zach asked.

“Y-You may not know this but in the world of the Connected, H-Harvesting is considered as an exotic solo activity.” Conner said.

“Exotic solo activity?” Zach asked. But then he understood.

“Wait, are you telling me that powering up to use your ability is considered a form of self pleasuring?” Zach said.

Conner got even more red in the face and turned around to hide his embarrassment.

“Yes.” Conner said in a quiet tone.

“Oh, so no wonder the class got so quiet.” Zach said smiling.

Conner snorted And fell over. Zach hurried over to Conner to make sure he was ok.

“Are you messing with me!?” Conner asked between his fits of laughter.

“Yes, I am. The instructor explained what Harvesting meant even before the class started.” Zach said. Able to control himself again, Conner stood up.

“You little shit!” Conner said, punching Zach’s arm.

“What was that for.” Zach said.

“That was for messing with me!” Conner said.

“I’m sorry, I can’t help it. You are adorable when you get all flustered and red in the face.” Zach said, trying to replicate the mentioned flusteredness.

“At least I don’t shine like oyster vomit.” Conner prodded.

“For your matter of fact, I think it looks good on me.” Zach said, ignoring Conner’s jibe.

“I have to agree on that.” Conner said.