~The Gym.~
The next day.
After spending a couple of hours riding at the racetrack, Adrian takes a break and checks his phone. He sees a post from Lexi on her page, talking about the new Herdrenaline season and thanking everyone for the compliments and support. It brings a smile to his face, and he decides to send her a simple "hi" text.
As Adrian is about to put his phone away, he notices Chris walking up to him. They exchange greetings, and Chris wastes no time getting into the conversation.
"Hey, Adrian. So, I wanted to talk to you about something," Chris begins.
Adrian raises an eyebrow curiously, "Sure, what's up?"
Chris hesitates for a moment before speaking up,
"Well, as your friend, I just wanted to know, what's your deal with Lexi?"
Adrian's expression turns thoughtful as he considers the question.
"I just met her, but I do want to get to know her better."
Chris seems a bit skeptical, leaning closer to Adrian.
"I'm asking because you usually keep your distance."
Adrian looks directly into Chris's eyes and responds firmly,
"Yeah, but she knows someone very important to me."
Chris's curiosity is piqued.
"The mysterious man you always talk about?"
Adrian nods, a hint of seriousness in his gaze.
"Yes, him."
A playful smile appears on Chris's face as he teases, "So, he's not just someone you made up?"
Adrian chuckles, shaking his head. "No, I've always been honest about that."
Chris leans back, crossing his arms. "Well, I'm intrigued. What happens after you know?"
Adrian's gaze shifts back to his phone, thinking for a moment.
"We'll just have to wait and see."
As Adrian is engrossed in his conversation with Chris, his phone buzzes, indicating a new notification. He quickly glances at the screen and sees Lexi's name, accompanied by a simple "hi" message. A small smile tugs at the corners of his lips, and he feels a surge of anticipation. With a sense of excitement, he types a reply, eager to continue their conversation and delve deeper into the connection that seems to be forming between them.
Adrian: How are you today?
Lexi: I'm good, thanks. How about you?
Adrian: I'm doing well, just finished a ride at the racetrack. How's your day going?
Lexi: It's good, I'm just busy working on some Herdrenaline projects.
Adrian: It seems like you're doing an incredible job promoting it.
Lexi: Aw, thanks! It means a lot coming from you.
As Adrian types his response to Lexi's message, Chris observes him with a knowing smile. He raises an eyebrow and playfully nudges Adrian, saying,
"That's her, isn't it?"
Adrian nods excitement in his eyes. "Yes," he confirms, his voice filled with anticipation.
Chris' curiosity is piqued.
"I'm so curious to see how this pans out," he says, his tone filled with intrigue and genuine interest.
Adrian chuckles, a smile playing on his lips as he glances at Chris.
Lexi sits in the meeting, her heart racing with excitement, a radiant smile on her face. While her colleagues assume it's the upcoming season that's putting her in high spirits, little do they know that it's the text conversation she just had with Adrian that has her positively elated.
It's a surreal feeling for Lexi, knowing that she's talking to the person she has admired from afar for so long.
After the meeting, Lexi walks out of the conference room with Ryan and Emma by her side. The buzz in the office is palpable as whispers and curious glances follow their every step. It doesn't take long for Ryan to break the silence.
"Lexi, you won't believe how much everyone is talking about you and Adrian," he says with a mischievous grin.
Emma chimes in, unable to contain her excitement. "They're all wondering what's going on between you two."
Lexi laughs, the joy in her voice evident. "Well, let them wonder. The truth is, I'm just having fun getting to know him. We've only just started to know each other."
Ryan raises an eyebrow playfully. "Just having fun, huh? I've seen that smile on your face. It's more than just fun, Lexi."
Lexi blushes, a hint of a smile still lingering on her lips. "Well, maybe you're right. It's more than I ever imagined. But for now, let's just enjoy the excitement and see where it takes us."
The trio continues their walk to Lexi's office, the speculation and gossip swirling around them.
Ryan and Emma leave the office, leaving her to focus on her promotional tasks for the company. The buzz of excitement still lingers in the air as Lexi immerses herself in capturing the perfect photos to showcase the upcoming season of Herdrenaline.
She meticulously arranges the props, adjusts the lighting, and strikes a pose, her dedication evident in every shot. With a smile on her face, she knows that these images will help in promoting the brand. Fully committed to her role, she spends the rest of the day working diligently, ensuring that every detail is in place for the busy times ahead.
Ryan and Emma find a quiet corner in the hallway to talk.
Emma can hardly contain her curiosity any longer.
"What do you think is going on between Lexi and Adrian?"
Ryan leans against the wall, "Honestly, Emma, it's hard to say. Lexi is not one to easily open up about her feelings, even when it involves Adrian, but it's too early to say. I've known Lexi for years and all those years, she has been his fan, but now that he knows who she is, it's going to be different. We just have to wait and see. "
Emma nods, a knowing smile on her face. "I agree. I can't wait to see what happens between them and the good thing is, they have a lot in common,"
Ryan looks at Emma, his eyes filled with genuine happiness for their friend.
"Yeah, they do,"
He says that in a way that's not referring to Lexi and Adrian but Emma and him.
"There's something I wanted to talk to you about, Lexi's family is throwing their annual gala this Friday. It's a big social event, where they gather all their friends and family to connect more with them and celebrate everyone's success."
Emma's eyebrows shoot up in surprise.
"Really? I had no idea. I mean, I've been here for nine months, and I had no clue about this gala."
Ryan nods, understanding her surprise.
"I apologize for not telling you earlier. But I wanted to let you know now, so you have enough time to decide if you'd like to attend. I have two invitation cards."
He takes them out of his pocket and gives her one. He planned on giving it to her earlier.
Emma's mind races, contemplating the idea.
"I'm flattered that you invited me, but I don't have anything fancy to wear for such an event. I wouldn't want to feel out of place."
A mischievous smile plays on Ryan's lips as he reassures her.
"Don't worry, I've got that covered."
Confusion etches across Emma's face as she probes for more information.
"What do you mean by that?
Ryan's response is teasingly vague.
"You'll see."
Emma's curiosity deepens, but before she can question him further, Ryan bids her farewell and disappears into his office, leaving her with a sense of anticipation and wonder.
As she stands there, contemplating the enigmatic invitation and Ryan's mysterious words, she can't help but feel that their relationship is taking an exciting turn, slowly but surely, into something great.
After a long and eventful day, Lexi settles into her cozy living room and starts a movie, eager to unwind. As the film captivates her attention, her phone suddenly buzzes, making her flinch.
Curiosity piqued, she glances at the screen and sees Adrian's name flashing across it. With a mix of surprise and excitement, she answers the call, holding the phone to her ear.
"Hey," Lexi says, a hint of anticipation in her voice.
Adrian's warm voice resonates through the line.
"Hey, I can imagine how surprised you are right now."
Lexi smiles the movie's audio serving as a gentle backdrop. "Yeah, always surprising me,"
"You too, I have to keep up with what you're doing through your posts,"
"Me too," Lexi chuckles.
"What are you doing right now?"
"I'm just watching a movie. It's called 'Cychia.' Have you seen it?"
Adrian chuckles softly.
"Yeah, I've seen it. It's a mind-bending film. Enjoying it?"
"It's amazing! The concept is so intriguing. I love movies that make you think," Lexi replies, enthusiasm evident in her voice.
Their conversation effortlessly flows from the movie to other topics, their connection growing with each passing word.
"I'm still waiting to see what you said you would give me,"
"That's because we're both so busy, especially this week, I won't be able to come to the racetrack,"
"That's fine, I'll wait.
Adrian's understanding of nature shines through.
A warmth spreads through Lexi's heart, appreciating his sincerity.
Lexi thinks about how natural their conversation is considering they just met 3 days ago but she remembers watching an interview with Adrian's friends saying that he has an amazing personality and he gets along with everyone.
As their conversation draws to a close, both Adrian and Lexi are left with a sense of anticipation and the eagerness to explore their growing connection. With a promise to stay in touch, they bid each other good night.
~
As the morning sun casts its gentle rays upon the city, Lexi prepares for her gym session with a sense of purpose and excitement. She slips into her new gym wear, a stylish ensemble that accentuates her figure and gives her an extra boost of confidence. Today's workout holds special significance for her, as she wants to look and feel her best for the upcoming gala.
With a determined stride, she makes her way to the gym, enjoying the peaceful ride without any traffic hindering her journey. As she arrives and opens the door, her eyes widen in surprise as she sees the gym instructor, a familiar face she has come to know during her gym visits.
But what truly catches her off guard is the sight of Adrian himself emerging from the changing room. His presence fills the space, and she can't help but notice his well-toned physique, muscles defined under his perfectly fitting gym attire. Her heart skips a beat, her mind struggling to process the unexpected encounter.
"What...?" Lexi begins, her voice trailing off as Adrian approaches her.
"I'm as shocked as you are," he says with a slight smile, his eyes locking with hers.
Lexi's mind races with thoughts and emotions, unsure of how to react to this serendipitous meeting. However, one thing remains certain – she looks incredible, and that boosts her confidence in this unexpected situation.
Adrian breaks the silence, teasingly remarking, "Of course, you'd choose a gym like this one."
In her defense, Lexi playfully retorts, "In my defense, I have been a member of this gym longer than you have."
They share a brief chuckle, finding solace in the humor of the situation. Lexi's initial shock begins to subside as she realizes that this unexpected encounter is nothing more than a mere coincidence. Since it's an exclusive gym and she has never posted it online then,
"This is purely coincidental," Lexi says, a spark of curiosity gleaming in her eyes.
Adrian nods in agreement. "Seems like it."
The instructor's eyebrows shoot up in surprise as he witnesses the interaction between Adrian and Lexi. "You guys know each other?" he asks, his tone filled with curiosity.
Adrian and Lexi exchange a glance before simultaneously responding, "Yes."
Lexi walks over to her designated locker, placing her belongings inside while stealing occasional glances at Adrian. A smile tugs at his lips as he catches her gaze, an unspoken connection forming between them.
Meanwhile, the instructor guides Adrian through his first set of exercises, explaining the proper technique and intensity. Despite the size of the gym, Lexi tries to create some distance between herself and Adrian, hoping to focus on her workout. However, Adrian's friendly and outgoing nature prompts him to strike up conversations with her between sets, making it challenging for Lexi to concentrate on her exercises.
So, how long have you been coming to this gym?" Adrian asks, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity.
Lexi pauses momentarily, catching her breath before responding.
"Since it opened three years ago,"
"That long?"
"Yeah, I've known T before he opened his gym, he used to have so many clients so we all left the other gym and joined it as soon as it opened. You're going to be in great shape because of his workouts, not that you aren't in..." Lexi cuts herself short.
Adrian waits for her to finish but she doesn't.
"I know I will since I can see that you're in great shape,"
Lexi's cheeks flush slightly at his playful comment, she doesn't know what to say.
Adrian smiles.
"Thanks," she whispers but he hears it.
As Lexi begins her warm-up routine and engages in stretching exercises, she can't help but steal glances in Adrian's direction as he is working out.
Their eyes meet from time to time and she acknowledges just how good he looks, his dedication to fitness evident in his physique.
While the gym buzzes with activity and the sounds of clanking weights, Lexi and Adrian navigate their separate workouts.
As Lexi continues with her workout, she can't help but steal glances at Adrian. His toned physique, the way his muscles flex with each movement, it's all so captivating to her. The exercises they both perform seem to have an added element of sensuality, the positions, and motions sending tingles down her spine.
She tries to focus on her workout, pushing herself to complete each set, but her mind keeps drifting back to Adrian. It's as if the energy between them is charged, creating an undeniable attraction that she struggles to ignore.
When they both take a break to drink water, Lexi's heart skips a beat as she notices Adrian doing the same. It's a simple action, but the intensity in his eyes as he looks at her leaves her feeling exposed. She quickly averts her gaze, trying to hide the flush that creeps up her cheeks.
"Are you done doing all the workouts?" Lexi manages to ask, her voice a little shaky.
He nods 'no' and takes a moment before responding, his voice low and husky.
"I'm just thirsty," he says, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
Her mind races with a mix of confusion and desire. She can't deny the underlying tension between them, but she also knows she must tread carefully. This newfound connection with Adrian is both exciting and daunting, and Lexi wonders where it might lead.
~Adrian~
A
s Adrian goes through his workout routine, he can't help but also steal glances at Lexi. Seeing her in the gym, looking stunning in her new workout attire, catches him off guard. He's used to seeing her in a different context, but here, in the gym, she exudes a different kind of allure.
He notices the way her body moves with grace and strength, her focus unwavering despite the distractions. There's an undeniable magnetism that draws him towards her, making it hard for him to concentrate on his exercises.
Since they're still in the early stages of getting to know each other, he doesn't want to rush things or make her uncomfortable.
He finds himself captivated by the way she carries herself, her confidence evident in every movement. Her physique is a work of art, sculpted through hours of training and hard work.
He knows that there is more to her than just her appearance. There's a fire within her, a fierce determination that he finds incredibly attractive. It's not just about the way she looks, but the energy and passion she brings to everything she does.
After finishing their workout, Adrian and Lexi head to the changing rooms to shower and change. The physical exertion leaves them feeling refreshed and invigorated. As they meet at the front of the gym, Lexi mentions that she has to head to work, while Adrian shares his plans of going to the racetrack.
"I didn't see your bike," Lexi comments curiously.
"I decided to bring my car today," Adrian replies with a smile.
Lexi hops onto her bike, ready to tackle the day, and they bid each other farewell. Despite their desire for more moments together, they understand the constraints of their busy schedules.
While at work, Lexi finds herself scrolling through social media and comes across a post from Adrian at the racetrack. The image captures his intense focus and his skill as a rider. A sense of pride and connection fills Lexi as she realizes that she's opening up to him, allowing herself to be drawn into his world. She can't help but feel a growing excitement for what lies ahead in their burgeoning relationship.
As the night falls, Lexi finds herself exchanging messages with Adrian. The conversation flows effortlessly, filled with playful banter and genuine interest in each other's lives.
Lexi: Yeah, I'm going to spend my off days, with my mom.
Adrian; Then we'll have to meet another day.
Another day...
With a smile on her face, she texts him goodnight since it's very late.
A
drian settles down in front of his gaming console, ready to unwind and indulge in his favorite video game before calling it a night. The colorful graphics and immersive gameplay immediately draw him in, providing a much-needed escape from the demands of the day.
The controller feels natural in his hands, his reflexes sharp as he reacts swiftly to the game's twists and turns.
The fast-paced action and thrilling gameplay evoke a sense of exhilaration, temporarily transporting him away from the real world.
The game provides a much-needed outlet for his competitive spirit, a space where he can truly let go and be immersed in the moment.
As the night wears on, he gradually winds down, knowing that it's time to call it a night. He saves his progress, switches off the console, and settles into bed, the excitement of the game still lingering in his mind. He texts his friends about their planned competitio With thoughts of virtual victories and upcoming challenges with his friends, he drifts off to sleep, ready to face a new day, both in the virtual world and in reality.
Adrian is interested and Lexi is just going along with it. You'll get to know why Lexi hasn't given him Yuki's gift.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter! There are more to come!
August Fiction Five.