the monkey bars

Arlys Klundt sealed his fate when he challenged Billy Batest to fight him at the monkey bars after school. The reasons for the animosity were never clear. But the contest was on. And many gathered because the news had traveled throughout the school. Hootenanny was present as an independent observer.
At three PM the combatants were present and sneering at each other. Billy looked apprehensive even though the money pushed the odds in his favor. Arlys was grim. He had a fight to consider.
Assembled in anticipation, the bystanders watched as an impromptu 'fight circle' was formed. Scuffed shoes drew the perimeter while Arlys and Billy readied themselves for the fray.
It began and ended quickly. Billy delivered a single jab that sent Arlys to his knees. He followed up with a right hook that put Arlys on the ground, flat on his back. He didn't get up. The fight was over. Billy Batest had won.
But we still thought he was a fag.