The clink of weights echoed around the gym, a steady rhythm mixing with the hum of treadmills. You were halfway through your set, focused on your form, when you felt that familiar presence—Theo stepping behind you to spot.

“Got it?” he asked, his voice low but steady, hands hovering just in case.

You nodded, gripping the bar tighter. “Yeah… I think so.”

He watched closely as you pushed through the rep, the effort burning through your muscles. When you racked the weight and exhaled, he gave you a small grin. “Nice. Stronger every time I see you.”

Heat rushed to your cheeks, and not from the workout. “Thanks. Guess I have a good spotter.”

For a moment, he leaned on the bar, studying you with that relaxed, confident smile he always seemed to carry. “You know,” he said, casually but with a spark in his eyes, “we always talk here between sets, but I was thinking… maybe we should hang out outside the gym sometime. Coffee, dinner—your choice.”

Your breath hitched, and you blinked up at him, caught off guard but thrilled. “Are you asking me out mid-rep?”

Theo chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, guess I am. Couldn’t wait ‘til you finished your workout. So… what do you say?”