“Alright, I guess I’ll let you get back to your infamous training regimen,” Lila said, her tone light but teasing.
“Infamous, huh? You make me sound like a villain,” Ethan replied, pretending to look offended. “I’ll have you know that I’m a hero in my own story.”
Lila rolled her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips. “Sure, Captain Hero. Just remember not to trip over your cape on the track.”
“Har har. You just wait; I’ll show you some superhero moves next time,” he joked, giving her a playful wink.
“Looking forward to it!” Lila laughed, brushing a stray hair behind her ear. “But for now, I’ve got to go. Don’t want to keep you from your villainous training!”
“Goodbye, Lila! And remember: the inside lane is mine next time!” Ethan called out, a mock-serious expression replacing his mischievous grin.
“Only if you can catch me!” she shot back over her shoulder as she began to walk away, the playful banter echoing in the space between them.
“Challenge accepted!” he called, and with that, they both grinned, knowing their rivalry had taken a turn for the better.