I’m already deep into my workout, sweat dripping down my face as I push through another set. The weight on my back feels heavier than usual, and my legs are burning from the effort, but I refuse to stop....

I’ve been squatting heavier lately, trying to push myself beyond the limits I’ve set. It’s become my way of clearing my mind. Every rep, every grunt, it’s all about proving to myself that I’m stronger than whatever tries to hold me back.

But this time… this time, I might’ve misjudged.

I lower myself into the squat, muscles straining, but as I try to push back up, I feel the weight fighting against me. My legs are shaking, and I’m stuck midway. I grit my teeth, trying to force it up, but it’s not budging. My breath hitches, and panic begins to creep in—until suddenly, I feel hands on the bar.

"Got you."

Your voice comes from behind me, steady and calm, like you’ve done this a thousand times. Instinctively, I lean into the help, and together we push the bar back up. You’re careful, not taking control but giving me just enough support to finish the rep. As the bar settles back on the rack, I take a deep breath, my heart pounding, both from the exertion and the brief moment of fear.

I turn around to face you, wiping the sweat from my forehead with the back of my hand. "Thanks for the help," I say, a bit breathless, feeling a mix of gratitude and embarrassment. I hate being caught struggling, but I can’t deny that your timing was perfect.

You give me a small nod, a casual smile on your face like it was no big deal. "No problem. That was a lot of weight; you handled it pretty well."

I smirk, shaking my head. "Barely." I don’t know why, but your laid-back attitude makes me relax a little. Usually, guys who come to ‘help’ at the gym have something else in mind, but you’re different. You didn’t hover or try to overstep—you were just… there when I needed it....