I love strolling or jogging through the riverside trail just blocks from my apartment. Eager to sculpt my body for the upcoming summer, I decided to push my workout routine that morning. At dawn, I laced up my running shoes, slipped into a snug pair of spandex shorts, a cropped tank top that hugged my curves, and slathered on SPF lotion. As I headed to the trail, I felt the appreciative stares of early risers I passed, their eyes lingering a little too long.

My baseball cap kept the rising sun’s glare at bay, its golden rays painting the cloudless sky.
I started with a brisk walk, letting my muscles warm up before easing into a jog. My thoughts drifted to lazy weekends at Mia’s lakeside cabin, skinny-dipping with friends, or sunset barbecues by the shore. The sweat and effort would pay off. Nothing beats feeling confident and strong when the heat hits.

Halfway through my lap, I sensed someone matching my stride. Glancing over, I saw Noah, my friend who’s a sports therapist. His warm smile lit up his face, his hazel eyes sparkling with mischief. I suspect he’s got a soft spot for me, though he’s never said it outright. It doesn’t change how easy our friendship feels. We’ve shared a few heated moments since meeting on this very trail last year – electric, unforgettable encounters. We exchanged quick cheek kisses and a brief hug, his arms lingering just a second. Then he fell into step beside me.

He asked if I was training solo and offered to join my workout.

It’s way more fun exercising with you. I love your energy – I said, flashing a grin.

I’m the one who gets to brag, keeping up with someone as gorgeous as you – he replied, his voice teasing.

We both chuckled, and I cut in – Okay, enough flattery. I’ve got calories to torch and muscles to tone.
He brought up a friend we’d partied with last fall and mentioned Diego, his former roommate from Brazil who’d moved out recently.

After jogging for nearly an hour, we slowed to a walk, breathless and satisfied. Noah tilted his head toward me. – Fancy a massage at my place? I’ve got those magic hands – he said, winking.

I told him I’d stop by later that afternoon. Right then, all I craved was a hot shower to rinse off the sweat-soaked clothes clinging to my skin.

As we parted ways, he called out – I’ll be waiting, Ava. I’ll blend up a killer mango smoothie for you.
Count on me showing up. Your hands are pure bliss – I said, meeting his gaze with a playful smirk.

We laughed, shared a quick hug, and I felt his lips brush mine in a fleeting kiss before I headed into my building.

At home, I indulged in a steamy bath, bubbles frothing around me as I shaved every inch of my body smooth, leaving my skin silky and fresh. I scrubbed thoroughly, wanting to feel pristine for whatever the afternoon might bring.

By late afternoon, I arrived at Noah’s loft, the sun dipping low. He swung open the door, his grin wide and genuine. – Damn, you look incredible! – he said, his eyes tracing my figure with unabashed admiration.

I’d chosen a fitted sundress that skimmed my thighs, its neckline plunging to reveal a hint of cleavage, paired with strappy heels that wrapped around my ankles. I twirled for him, the dress flaring slightly. – Am I up to your standards? – I teased.

Noah’s laugh was low, his gaze hungry, betraying how much he wanted to close the distance between us. We chatted briefly over iced tea in his airy living room before I excused myself to the bathroom to prep for the massage.

Standing before the full-length mirror, I peeled off my dress, my pulse quickening as I debated how to catch Noah off guard. I wanted to ignite something primal in him. After a moment’s thought, I decided to stride out bare, save for my heels, their straps accentuating my ankles. My skin tingled with anticipation.

I opened the door, expecting to see Noah’s jaw drop. Instead, my breath caught. Another man stood beside him, turning to face me. Mortified, I darted back into the bathroom, heart racing. Noah knocked gently, his voice soft. – Ava, can I come in?

I clutched a towel to my chest and let him in. – I’m so sorry – he said, his face etched with regret.
No, I shouldn’t have tried to surprise you like that – I mumbled, cheeks burning.

He explained – That’s Liam, a colleague who’s studying sports therapy. He dropped by to borrow some old textbooks. Don’t worry, he’s leaving soon.

I exhaled, then smirked. – Just tell him I’m your eccentric client who likes to keep things… free-spirited.
Noah grinned, relieved, and stepped out. I took a deep breath and followed a minute later, the towel wrapped snugly around me.

Liam was younger than I expected, with a shy smile that put me at ease. He apologized profusely for the awkward timing, and I brushed it off with a cheek kiss, settling onto the massage table.

Noah nodded at Liam. – Mind helping with her shoes? – Liam glanced at me, hesitant.

Go ahead, I’d appreciate it – I said, smiling warmly.

Liam knelt, his fingers gentle as he unfastened the straps, his touch careful but sure. Then he stepped back as Noah helped me lie face-down, draping the towel over my lower half.

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