Lily was walking through her favorite place in the gym, the hum of machines and the faint sound of music filling the air like a familiar melody. It was an ordinary day, and she was lost in her routine, focusing on the rhythm of her breaths and the gentle burn in her muscles. But today, something shifted.

A presence caught her attention, an invisible thread pulling at her curiosity. She felt it before she saw it, a magnetic energy that sent a shiver down her spine. Unconsciously, her gaze wandered in search of that presence, landing on a man sitting with his back to her. His silhouette was strong, shoulders broad, and there was something about the way he sat—relaxed yet attentive—that intrigued her.

Lily found herself drawn in, an unfamiliar longing stirring within her. She couldn't quite place it; she had never felt this way about anyone before. She stepped closer, her heart quickening with each movement, as if the air around him crackled with potential.

She took a moment to observe him. His dark hair fell slightly over the collar of his shirt, and even from behind, there was an undeniable confidence in his posture. As if sensing her gaze, he turned his head slightly, just enough for their eyes to meet.

The instant their eyes locked, Lily felt the world around them fade away. His gaze was piercing yet soft, carrying an intensity that made her heart race. In that moment, everything felt different—heightened, electric. The noise of the gym faded into a distant murmur, leaving only the two of them in their private bubble.

“What’s your name?” she found herself asking, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions inside her. The question slipped out before she even had time to think about it, revealing a boldness she didn’t often show.