Seduction's Shadow

Chapter 9: Ghosts of Yesterday

It had been half a year since Aari moved to Chicago, disappearing from Theo's life completely. She had changed her number, deleted all her social media accounts, and was finally beginning to find peace. Yet, the past still haunted her at night, and she sometimes felt Theo's presence lurking in the shadows. She was still afraid to go out to new places alone, feeling as if someone was always following her in the dark.

Determined to reclaim her life, Aari decided to start her workout routine again. She asked her cousin Alex, who was Sarah's brother, to accompany her to the gym. They were thrilled at the idea of being the best brother-sister duo in the gym. Alex, a teenager with a muscular build and tattoos, was excited not only to work out but also to do a gym photoshoot. They planned their day: gym, eat out, watch a movie, and then go shopping.

As usual, Alex got ready before Aari and shouted from downstairs, "Aari, can you please get ready fast? My gym crush will be there, and I don't want to be late!"

Aari replied with a laugh, "Alex, the only crush you'll have is on a dumbbell if you keep rushing me!"

She took a shower, applying her favourite Bath and Body Works body wash from the In the Stars collection, the fragrance turning even herself on. She dried her hair and styled it in loose curls.

Aari slipped into a black racerback sports bra, its snug fit accentuating her curves. The soft heather grey cropped tank top she layered over it hugged her waist, making every movement feel sensual and free. Her high-waisted charcoal leggings clung to her legs like a second skin, their V-shaped waistband enhancing her hourglass figure. Sleek black training shoes with burgundy accents completed her look, adding a touch of elegance to her athletic ensemble.

Aari applied her favourite YSL perfume and headed downstairs, where Alex was waiting. At the gym, she felt a bit anxious, but Alex noticed and reassured her, "Don't worry, I'm here with you. I won't leave your side." This made Aari happy.

While doing cardio on the treadmill, she turned to see Alex meeting his gym crush. She noticed a guy entering the gym, immediately catching her attention. He was 5'10", muscular, with tattoos covering one arm, a rose on his neck, wings on his back, and a jawline that looked chiselled from marble. His black hair and panther-like walk made him look like a Greek god. He wore a fitted, moisture-wicking tank top in deep navy blue, highlighting his broad shoulders and defined arms, showing off his tattoo sleeve. He paired it with athletic shorts in grey, complemented by crisp white training shoes with navy blue and grey accents.

As he moved closer, Aari's heart started pounding. A nauseous feeling swept over her as she recognized him: Sebastian. The same person Theo had accused her of talking to, though it was Vlad who had catfished her using Sebastian's pictures. Memories flooded back, bringing an unknown feeling she still hadn't figured out. She stopped the treadmill and hurried to the washroom, avoiding eye contact at all costs.

Spending almost 15 minutes in the washroom, Aari tried to collect her thoughts and calm down. She told herself that Sebastian didn't even know she existed as they had only talked once on Facebook, and he probably barely remembered her, especially since he had called her a "psycho bitch" when she had tried to explain herself. She was filled with hatred towards him now.

When she came out of the washroom, she saw Alex waiting for her, his eyes filled with relief. Not wanting to make her feel worse, he didn't mention it. To cheer her up and distract her, Alex asked her to take pictures in the yoga room and take some together to remember their first workout day. Aari agreed, as the yoga room was on another level.

They played their playlist and started clicking pictures. First, Alex posed solo, and then he asked Aari to pose. She initially refused but eventually gave in to make Alex happy. Aari struck a pose, her body arched gracefully as she lifted one leg behind her, balancing effortlessly. Her eyes, a mix of hot and innocence, glowed with a captivating allure. She gazed into the camera with a sultry look, her lips slightly parted, making everyone mesmerized by her beauty.

While posing, she noticed Sebastian entering the yoga room. He caught her attention as she posed, checking her out from afar.

Alex and Aari clicked pictures together, cracking lame jokes and laughing. Aari's smile was radiant, her lips curving up with a genuine joy she had almost forgotten. Her eyes sparkled with a light that made her entire face glow.

Alex joked, "Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts!"

Aari laughed, "You know what I want to be when I grow up? A grown-up!"

With a mischievous grin, she added, "Alex, is your gym crush actually a person, or are you just infatuated with the squat rack?"

Their laughter echoed through the yoga room, filling the space with warmth and happiness. Aari felt a sense of liberation, finally able to smile and laugh again. Once they finished, Sebastian approached them. Aari, feeling a mix of emotions, moved behind Alex for support.

Alex turned to her, sensing her discomfort, and said, "Hey, why don't we head out for that meal now?"

Aari nodded, grateful for the escape, and they left the gym together. She couldn't help but glance back at Sebastian, wondering if their paths would cross again. For now, she was content with the progress she had made and the support of her cousin.