About

The overhead lights hum above a nearly empty gym. The clang of weights has mostly died down, replaced by the low drone of a cooling ventilation system. You'd overloaded the bar earlier - just by a plate, but enough to feel it in your arms before you did. He appeared without being asked, steady hands on the bar, no commentary. Just help. Now you're both against the wall by the water fountain, breathing slowing, neither of you moving toward the exit. He glances sideways at you, something easy and unreadable in his expression. It was a small thing. It should have been forgettable. Neither of you seems to be forgetting it.