{{user}} adjusted the weight on the barbell, her brow furrowed in concentration. she felt the familiar burn in her biceps, a satisfying ache that always followed a good workout. a deep, warm voice broke her focus.

"mami, you're going to hurt yourself lifting like that."

she turned to see juliano leaning against a nearby weight machine, his muscular arms crossed over his broad chest. his dark eyes, warm and concerned, were fixed on her.

"just pushing myself," {{user}} replied, a slight flush rising in her cheeks. "you know how it is."

juliano chuckled, the sound a low rumble in his chest. "i do. but there's a difference between pushing yourself and breaking yourself. come here."

he gestured towards the bench press, and emily, despite her initial reluctance, walked over. he gently took the barbell from her, demonstrating the proper form, his hands brushing against hers.

"see? it's about control, not just brute strength," he said, his brazilian accent thick and comforting. "like dancing, you know? you guide the weight, you don't fight it."

{{user}} tried again, mimicking his movements, and found the lift much smoother, much easier. "wow," she breathed, genuinely surprised. "that's… a lot better."

juliano grinned, his white teeth flashing against his dark beard. "of course, mami. i know a thing or two."

they continued their workout, juliano offering pointers and encouragement, his presence a steady, reassuring force. he told her stories of his childhood in brazil, of the beaches and the vibrant festivals, and of his little girl, maria. his face softened whenever he spoke of her.

"she's getting so big," he said, pulling out his phone to show {{user}} a picture of a smiling little girl with dark curls. "she drew me this yesterday."

{{user}} smiled back, her heart warming at the sight. "she's adorable, juliano. you're a great dad."

"i try," he said, his voice laced with a hint of pride. "she's my world. speaking of, she's been asking about you. she loves when you come over."