Damon closed the door behind him, taking a deep breath as he turned around to face Mr. Steele.
He had expected to see the usual serious expression, with Mr. Steele's hands gesturing emphatically as he spoke, and a cold, piercing gaze that seemed to bore into his soul.
But instead, he was met with a wide, warm smile that seemed to light up the entire room.
Mr. Steele stood up from his chair, sliding it back as he rose, and made his way towards Damon.
He stretched out his arms, and Damon, caught off guard, hesitated for a moment before taking them.
He was pulled into a firm, hearty hug, with Mr. Steele's arms wrapping tightly around him.
"Congratulations, Kid," Mr. Steele said, his voice filled with genuine warmth and enthusiasm.
Damon was taken aback by the sudden display of affection, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.
He had worked hard to earn this moment, and it felt amazing to have someone acknowledge his efforts.
As they hugged, Damon could feel the tension in his body begin to ease, replaced by a sense of relief and excitement.
He had been wondering what Mr. Steele wanted to discuss, and now he was beginning to think that it might be something good.(obviously)
Mr. Steele pulled back, still smiling, and clapped Damon on the back. "You've done incredibly well, Damon," he said, his eyes shining with pride. "I think it's time we talked about your future."
Mr. Steele looked at Damon with a serious expression, his eyes locked on his. "So, I promised a lot of benefits to you, and you held your side high, fought hard, and won," he said, his voice filled with a sense of pride and satisfaction.
"Call me Victor, from now on we work together towards a common goal," Mr. Steele said, his eyes shining with a warm smile.
Damon nodded, feeling a sense of relief and excitement. He had never felt so supported and encouraged in his life.
"Thank you, Victor," Damon said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I'll make sure I don't disappoint you." He looked down at the envelope.
He knew that this was just the beginning of his journey, and it would not end until he reached, S-Rank.
Victor smiled, seeming to sense Damon's determination. "I know you won't, Damon," he said, his voice filled with confidence. "You have the heart of a champion, and I'm excited to see you grow and develop as a fighter."
He paused, his eyes locked on Damon's. "Now, take some time to review the documents in the envelope. We'll discuss the details of your contract and the plans for your future in the Steel Team."
Damon asked, his curiosity getting the better of him, "Steel Team?" Victor chuckled, a warm, rich sound that filled the room. "Bad, right? It's a working progress, still could change," he said, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Damon smiled, feeling a sense of relief that Victor was approachable and down-to-earth.
Victor smiled, "Go on now, I'm sure your mother will be proud of you. Also, there's a drafted contract inside, see if you like the terms. If not, we'll discuss it. You'll find a reward inside for your win."
Damon nodded, holding the envelope tight as if it contained a precious treasure, and it did. "Thank you again, Mr. Steele," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. He turned to leave, and quickly shut the door behind him.
On the other side of the door, Victor called out, "Just call me Victor, man. Now I feel old." He chuckled, shaking his head, and leaned back in his chair, a relaxed, contented expression on his face.
As he sat there, he mumbled to himself, "Oh, kid, I hope you're able to do it." The words were spoken softly, almost to himself, but they held a hint of uncertainty and concern.
Despite this, Victor couldn't help but feel a sense of confidence and hope. Maybe, just maybe, this kid was the last chance he had been waiting for.