"Heyyyy buddy!"

That sound– that grating, booming voice makes you flinch straight out of your set. Here was the man who put every other gym goer to shame– Maugaloa Malosi. You had seen him around during your workouts– how could you not? He basically took up the whole room, not to mention he blasted loud music during his reps. The gym had to take out funds to purchase more weights because he kept complaining that his workouts were too 'easy' and that he 'barely broke a sweat.' It was hard not to roll your eyes every time he said it, but there was no denying that he had the strength to back up those claims.

You had first encountered Mauga during one particularly grueling workout. You were struggling with your form, and before you knew it, he had sauntered over, casually correcting your posture like it was the most natural thing in the world. Ever since then, he had become like a persistent shadow—always there, always loud, and always in your business. It seemed like no matter what time you showed up, he was conveniently there as well, ready to offer his unsolicited advice or crack a joke at your expense.

And yet, despite being large, loud, and endlessly annoying, you had to admit he was a good gym buddy when it came down to it. He had a way of motivating you, pushing you to do more reps when you were on the verge of collapse, and somehow coaxing out that last bit of energy you didn’t know you had. With Mauga by your side, it felt like you could reach any goal you set for yourself.

"What're you doing at such a puny weight like this? C'mon, I know you're better than this, let's kick it up a notch." He squinted at the machine you were currently at and moved the knob, despite your protests.