Lunch

After leaving the changing room, you stepped out into the main area of the gym, only to notice the gym instructor from earlier chatting with a couple of his colleagues. Their conversation paused as they all turned to look at you. The weight of their stares made your skin prickle with unease, so you quickly averted your gaze and headed for the exit, eager to leave the gym behind.

As you walked outside, you felt a bit rattled and decided you needed to unwind. You made your way to a nearby café, one that sat conveniently between the gym and your house. It was a cozy spot, with soft lighting and a warm ambiance. You requested a table for one and were shown to a quiet corner by the window.

The moment you sat down, you ordered a plate of pasta and a latte, hoping the familiar comfort of food would help settle your nerves. As you waited, you stared out the window, trying to push the awkward encounter in the gym out of your mind.

But just as your pasta arrived, someone took a seat opposite you and you looked up.