Reflection

Chapter 4

The Secret of Change is to focus all your Energy, not on Fighting the Old, but Building the New.
                
                -Socrates

Chapter 4

   I wrapped the jacket tighter as I made my daily walk to work. Children's laughter soon filtered through my ears. I slightly turned to catch a glimpse of a girl with red ribbons, in her hair, flimsily blowing in the wind, having the time of her life.

    Sighing wistfully, I turned away, entering the heart of the city. My childhood couldn't have been saved, my thoughts bitter. Ignoring the memories, my eyes fluttered over all the small shops and stores, but as I passed a scarcely tinted window, someone caught my attention.

His muscles bulged with strain as sweat dripped down his face in concentration. I was enthralled. He consumed my thoughts as I watched him demonstrate the proper way to lift a weight.

My heart warmed as he gave a encouraging pat on his trainee's shoulder. He was... immaculate on the outside, hopefully as well, inside.

To make a change, I needed to start with myself. I had to try to make a better life for myself and I knew what I had to do.

I ,also, need him. I thought. A hint a fear suddenly ceased me. Did I want him involved? Would he be afraid if he found out the actual truth about me wanting him as my trainer? Could I protect him in the end?  Could I protect myself?

My mental debate was interrupted as I heard a voice.

"Would you like to... um... come in?"

A man stood to the side of the window, his hand gripping the handle to the gym.

Not knowing what to answer, I stupidly asked, "This is a gym, right?"

"Yes." He answered, giving me a funny look. Hoping to catch another glance, my attention swiveled back towards the glass, but to no avail.  The trainer was gone. I looked at the guy at the door.

Having made my mind, I answered with a firm, " Yes. I would like to come in."

I studied his face, noticing the red tuff of hair peeking from under his beanie, as he gave me another weird look. Opening the door, he gestured inside and I slipped into the most important chapter of my life.

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Warmth seeped into my bones as my body began to thaw out. Not noticing how cold I was till now, I rubbed my hands together. I looked around the homey but classy, office.

" I am the receptionist here and I assume you aren't a groupie?" He asked curiously. I spun around.

"No!" Horrified, I tried to explain. "I need a... personal trainer."

"Oh, so that's how you pick 'em. You stare until they give in, aye?" I just shook my head, too embarrassed to form a reply. He smiled, amusement clear in his eyes.

"Shame." Was all he said. Winking, he curved around me, making his way towards his desk. I followed, of course.

"I assume you'll want a health plan." He absentmindedly said. I tapped my chin, nerves getting the best of me as I watch him print some papers, clip them to a board and finally hand it to me.

"I would usually input your information here," gesturing to his desk, " but since you requested a trainer, you would need the company of him or her t-"

"Him," I answered immediately. He smirked. "Yes. Follow me."

Walking around the worktable, he passed through the circle-shaped doorway. I scrambled after him, my  fingers twitching in anticipation.

"As I was saying, you'd need the company of your trainer to fill out the forms and create a price in your best interest and health." That makes sense. We crossed various hallways and rooms filled with gym equipment.

"Here we are." He said, coming at a stop at a door that read 703, on top. Suddenly turning towards me, he spoke. "I believe this is who you requested. You must remember the door number," he pointed up," in case you get lost.

Please return your forms to the front desk and my name is Carlson, but everyone calls me Carl." He cringed slightly.

"Thanks, Carlson." I smiled in appreciation. He beamed before walking away. "Good luck!" He called over his shoulder. I'm going to need it, the thought ran through my mind as I faced the door.

Little did I know I would need that luck in a different way.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!!