Chasing Shadows: Luna and Maxim's Pursuit of Truth

Chapter 51: A Taste of Puzzle Lemonade

The morning sun peeked through the large gym windows, casting golden rays over Maxim Collin's chiseled body. His muscular frame glistened with sweat, every defined curve of his chest and arms reflecting the hard work he'd poured into every session. The rhythmic thudding of his feet on the treadmill echoed through the room, his breaths steady but heavy.

Veins traced along his biceps, pulsing beneath his tanned skin. His broad shoulders flexed with each movement, the light catching on the sheen of sweat that trickled down the carved lines of his abdomen. His chest rose and fell steadily, the faint sheen making his sculpted pecs glisten under the morning light.

The treadmill beeped, signaling the end of his session. He slowed to a stop, breathing deeply. With one swift motion, he grabbed the white towel draped over the nearby rack, wiping the sweat from his sharp jawline. His dark hair stuck slightly to his forehead, giving him an effortlessly rugged look.

Maxim reached for his water bottle, tilting it back to let the cold liquid glide down his throat. His Adam's apple bobbed with each gulp, his muscles flexing as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

The gym was filled with the rhythmic hum of machines, but **Maxim Collin's** steady footsteps on the treadmill stood out. Sweat glistened down his broad, muscular chest, his sculpted body moving with effortless grace. His toned arms flexed, veins visible beneath his tanned skin. Every breath he took was deep, controlled - a man who knew his strength and how to use it.

His phone buzzed on the bench nearby, flashing a name that always made him smile - **Luna McKelly**.

He grabbed the phone, still catching his breath.

"Hello, beautiful... Missing me already?"

Luna's soft laugh echoed through the line. "Oh, I don't know... I might just be checking if you're working hard or just showing off."

Maxim smirked, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Sweetheart, if you're the one watching... I'd gladly show off all day."

Luna's playful voice teased back, "I knew it... the city's most eligible bachelor flexing his muscles like he's on a magazine cover."

Maxim leaned against the wall, the heat in his chest no longer just from the workout. "You know you love it... Besides, I've heard someone has a little crush on these muscles."

Luna giggled. "Who told you that?"

"You did, sweetie... every time you sneak a glance when you think I'm not looking."

Luna bit her lip, warmth rising in her cheeks. "Well... maybe I like what I see. So what if I want a little taste?"

Maxim's deep chuckle rumbled through the phone. "Careful, baby... You might not be able to resist once you get a taste."

Luna's heart fluttered at his playful tone. "You wish... Besides, I wouldn't want to distract the gym's star athlete."

Maxim's voice dropped lower. "Oh, sweetheart... you're the only distraction I'd ever want."

There was a long pause between them - the kind where neither wanted to hang up.

"I love you," Luna whispered.

Maxim's smirk softened, his voice turning gentle. "I love you more... and if you really want to distract me, show up tonight looking like the heart-stealing goddess you are and I can't wait to see you tonight."

Luna smiled. "Then I'll have to make sure I'm worth the wait."

Maxim's voice dropped to a husky whisper. "You're always worth the wait, sweetie."