The next night the gym closed at the same time, 10:45 sharp. Same dim emergency lights. Same heavy lock click on the front doors. But the air felt thicker tonight. Charged. Like the building itself knew what was coming.

Her name was Sofia. New member. Twenty-three. Long dark hair she usually tied up in a high ponytail during spin class. Tight leggings that hugged every curve. Crop top that showed the flat plane of her stomach and the silver barbell piercing in her navel. She always finished her workouts dripping sweat, cheeks flushed, lips parted like she was already halfway to something filthy.

Tonight she lingered on purpose.

I watched...