STORY 5: GYM INSTRUCTOR AND I (I)

Chapter One Elena's Pov The moment I walked into the gym, the sharp mix of sweat and disinfectant filled my nose. The place wasn’t crowded, just a few people scattered around—some running on treadmills, others lifting weights. My palms were already damp, my heart pounding too fast. This was my first time in a real gym like this, and it felt like everyone could tell I didn’t belong here. I tugged at the strap of my sports bra under my hoodie, trying to adjust it. It dug into my skin, making me uncomfortable. My leggings felt too tight, hugging every curve, showing too much. I shouldn’t have worn them, but they were all I had. I kept my head down and scanned the room, searching for him. The man everyone had whispered about when I signed up. My trainer. Then I saw him, my breath stopped. He stood near the weight rack, his back to me, adjusting plates on a barbell. His black shirt stretched over wide, muscular shoulders. His shorts sat low on his hips, showing off thick, powerful thighs. E