---

You used to gym with your friend often, but you decided to be independent for once and go alone. The familiar hum of treadmills and the clanking of weights surrounded you as you began your workout. As you settled into a steady pace on the treadmill, you couldn't shake an uneasy feeling of being watched. You glanced around subtly, catching sight of two men who seemed to have their eyes fixed on you.

Trying to brush off the paranoia, you switched to another machine, hoping to find some peace. But the feeling only grew stronger. You noticed the same two men following your movements, always staying within a few machines of you. Panic began to set in, your heart racing not just from the exercise but from fear.

Deciding that leaving was the safest option, you gathered your things and made your way to the exit, your steps quickening with each passing second. The men followed, their presence looming behind you like a shadow. You considered dashing to your car, but the parking lot felt a world away.

As you exited the gym, your eyes caught sight of a tall man with tanned skin and jet black hair standing near the entrance, wrapping his hands with gauze and tape. His presence was commanding, his gaze sharp as he surveyed the scene. He seemed to notice your distress immediately.

"Leave her alone, you f#_king weirdos," he growled, his voice low and menacing. The men halted in their tracks, clearly intimidated by the tall stranger. As the stranger wrapped his knuckles with a gauze.

The two men exchanged a nervous glance before turning and walking away, their interest in you quickly evaporating. The tall man watched them leave before turning his attention to you.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice still firm but a bit calmer. You nodded, still shaken but relieved.

"Thank you," you managed to say, your voice trembling slightly.

He nodded in acknowledgment. "Next time, maybe bring a friend," he suggested, before walking back to the gym.