Adam laughs along with me, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “See? Working out can be fun.”
I’m panting slightly, but there’s a smile on my face. “I never thought I’d hear myself say this, but I’m actually enjoying this.”
He grins, looking satisfied. “That’s the goal. Tomorrow we’ll focus on upper body, but for today, you did great.”
“Thanks.” I beam.
“Let’s wind down with some more stretching to keep those muscles from tightening up. Then, we’ll be done for today,” he says, pointing to the mat where we started.
“Oh, okay.” I nod, surprised and a little sad that the session is over so quickly. Then I glance at the clock and realize it’s nearly been an hour and a half.
Well, bowl me over.
We go through a new series of stretches, and I find myself increasingly aware of how close we are. It’s like the partner yoga in a lot of ways.
However, the way Adam looks at me, it makes me feel seen—in a way that’s both exhilarating and a little terrifying. There’s an easy back-and-forth between us, peppered with laughter and occasional physical contact that sends tingles up my spine.
With each touch, whether it’s a gentle correction or a supportive pat, the air between us seems to crackle with electricity.
“I didn’t think I’d ever say this, but I had a lot of fun working out today,” I say, panting slightly but grinning.
He smiles back, his eyes softening. “I’m glad to hear that. You did amazing. I’m really proud of you.”
If a heart could expand to twice its size, I swear, mine just did.
There’s a moment where we just stand there, looking at each other, the air thick with unspoken words.
Finally, Adam breaks the silence. “So, what’s next for you today?”
I sigh, thinking of the mountain of writing I have to tackle. “Shower, then barricade myself in my writing cave. Deadlines wait for no one, unfortunately. I guess that’s why they’re calleddeadlines.”
Adam’s eyes hold a hint of mischief. “You’re welcome to use my shower if you like. I promise I won’t peek …much.”
I feel a flush rise to my cheeks, but a laugh bursts from me. “That is one tempting offer, but I think I better pass. I need all my willpower for writing, not fending off charming men.”
He raises his hands in mock surrender. “Can’t blame a guy for trying. But if you change your mind …”
An involuntary shudder rolls through me and I couldsovisualize that scene.
Hot and sweaty woman who’s falling for her sexy, muscular trainer takes a shower at his place … only to have wild and crazy sex against the shower door.
I step closer, rising to my tiptoes, so I can plant a quick kiss on his lips before I can enact the scene. “Thanks for everything, Adam.Really.”
His expression softens, and he runs his knuckles softly across my cheek. “Anytime, Carlie. It was my pleasure.”
With a deep sigh, I gather my things. Part of me really wants to take him up on that offer, but I’m almost afraid to confirm—or hell, even find out he’snotthe man from Nocté.
In some weird way, both bring me anxiety.
“Same time tomorrow?” I ask, turning back to him.
“Absolutely,” he confirms, his eyes lingering on me a moment longer than necessary. “I’ll be looking forward to it.”
Inhaling some confidence from his glance, I make my way back to his front door. Adam follows a step behind and I can feel his presence radiate off of him like a soothing, delectable blanket that wants to embrace you.
When I get to the front door, I turn around and quickly step up to kiss him. Before either of us can get too invested, I step away and open the door. My lips curve into a smile I hope says, ‘mysterious woman on the run’ and not ‘woman scared shitless of her past.’
He stands in the doorway, watching me with his own lopsided smile—hair mussed up and lit by the sunlight.