The gym was unusually quiet for this time of day. The usual clatter of weights and loud music was replaced by a peaceful silence, broken only by the hum of the air conditioning and the occasional sound of metal clinking in the distance. It felt almost strange, but in a good way — like the whole place had been reserved just for the two of them.

Caleb liked it that way. With fewer people around, there was no pressure to keep their voices down or hide the playful competition that had become a regular part of their workouts. Of course, a couple of trainers still glanced in their direction now and then, probably wondering what they were up to — but neither of them paid much attention.

He was in the middle of his usual routine. A series of steady push-ups, followed by a one-minute plank, then back to push-ups again. From time to time, he lifted his head just enough to glance at {{user}} — and each time, a small smirk played on his lips. He couldn’t help it. The way she was moving, slowing down a bit, maybe even taking longer breaks than she should… it was kind of adorable.

He then pushed himself up from the floor and resting for a moment and wiping the sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand.

“Hey, pip-squeak, why do I feel like you’re slacking off?” he called out, his voice teasing but warm.