Chapter Text
"And still!" Islam couldn't shake Bruce Buffer's voice from his head. Just a few hours ago he was fighting for his life, now he was grateful for his victory over Volkanovski, despite the brutal hooks he received. The walk back to the locker room was excruciating, as his body screamed for him to stop. However, he couldn't show weakness now, especially after asking Muslim and the rest of his team for a few minutes alone.
He finally arrived at his destination after what seemed like an endless walk. He sat down on the mattress on the floor and leaned his back against the wall. Islam had defended his championship title in UFC284 but was disappointed with his performance. He feared that Khabib would scold him for it. With conflicting opinions about his performance that night, Islam felt unsure about himself. Just as he was about to call Khabib, he heard a knock on the door. Although hesitant to open it, it could be one of his teammates or Coach Javier checking up on him. To his surprise, Charles was standing outside.
Islam was flooded with memories of UFC280 and what had happened after. A series of glances eventually led to conversations and then hangouts. Eventually, this led to a romantic encounter. However, Islam wonders if it can still be called a one-night stand when the other party was so sweet and affectionate towards him.
"Charles?"
"May I come in?" Islam appeared hesitant but still allowed the Brazilian man to enter. The two stood a few feet apart, surrounded by uncomfortable silence and tried to avoid eye contact, even though Charles hugged and congratulated him only an hour after the fight.
"Hey, campeão. I hope your ego wasn't too bruised after that fight," Charles teased Islam as he approached him. "But seriously, how are you? You're usually surrounded by your entourage whenever I see you. Did they leave you?"
Islam didn't feel like responding, he didn't want to be rude. He couldn't come up with a reply. As he reminisces, he recalls the time when Charles ceased to respond to his messages. This occurred only a few months before Islam began his training camp for the fight against Volkanovski. Despite being in different time zones, Islam made efforts to inquire about Charles' well-being and arrange a meet-up, but each message he sent was either read and ignored or left unanswered. It left a bitter taste in his mouth remembering it.
Charles was concerned when Islam didn't respond with his usual witty jabs about his English. Instead, the Dagestan fighter looked frail and his bruises stood out against his pale skin. Charles approached him and gently caressed the wounds on his face, trying not to startle him. To his liking, Islam leaned in and welcomed the affection like a hungry dog. At that moment, he visibly relaxed. During a moment of vulnerability, Charles took a chance.
Charles gently embraces Islam and kisses him slowly. He is unsure if Islam still feels the same way, but to his surprise, Islam responds with passion and puts his arms around Charles's neck. Charles then slides his fingers under Islam's shirt and up to his chest, their intimate moment interrupted by a ringing phone. They break away from the kiss and look at the phone, seeing that it's Khabib calling. Islam lets go of the hold on Charles and gives him an apologetic look while Charles seems to be sending a death glare to the phone for interrupting.
"Sorry, I have to go now."
"Sure," Charles said inadequately, "I don't want you to miss your flight." He shrugged. "I guess I'll see you around." Islam gave Charles a quick nod and left the locker room, leaving Charles alone. Charles watched as Islam walked away, hoping that he would look back, but he didn't.