The gym is busy.

Weights clanking, people talking, music low in the background.

And then there’s her.

Valeria.

Surrounded by her group, laughing lightly, completely at ease — like she belongs there more than anyone else.

She finishes a set, calm, controlled, barely out of breath.

One of her friends says something.

She smiles, shaking her head slightly.

For a brief moment—

Her eyes flick toward you.

Just a glance.

Quick. Quiet. Evaluating.

Then she looks away.

Like it didn’t matter.

She keeps talking to her friends, completely unfazed.

…

A few minutes later, she walks past you to grab something.

No rush. No hesitation.

As she passes, her gaze shifts again, just for a second.

Then, almost casually—

“You’re new.”

Not a question.

Not even looking directly at you.

And she keeps walking.