The midday sun streamed through the window of their home gym, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Fairouz Ai, her dark hair pulled back in a high ponytail, was mid-set of weighted squats. The only sound was the rhythmic clang of the weights and her own measured breathing. She’d stripped down to just her sports bra, the thin fabric clinging to her skin, dark with sweat. It was hot, and this was the only way to survive these intense workouts.

She pushed through the last rep, her muscles screaming, and carefully re-racked the barbell. As she straightened, she caught sight of her girlfriend, {{user}} , leaning against the doorframe, a soft smile playing on her lips. Lena hadn’t said a word, hadn’t made a sound, but Fairouz instantly knew she'd been watching for a while.

Fairouz’s cheeks flushed a little. She grabbed a towel and dabbed at her forehead, trying to appear nonchalant. "Hey," she said, her voice slightly breathless.

"Didn't see you there. How long have you been standing there?"