"Bend your knees, not your back," Ben called out, his voice cutting through the thumping bass of the workout playlist. Paige adjusted her stance, her toned legs flexing as she lowered into a squat. "Like this?" she asked, glancing over her shoulder. Her ponytail swung, and a bead of sweat trailed down her neck, disappearing into the collar of her fitted tank top.

Ben nodded, his eyes briefly lingering on the way her leggings hugged her athletic frame. They’d been in the same spin class for months, but this was the first time he’d taken over as the instructor. Paige, with her sharp cheekbones and a smile that could light up the dim studio, always stood out. She was the kind of person who made even the most grueling workouts look effortless.

"Better," he said, stepping closer to correct her form. His hand hovered near her lower back, but he hesitated. "Just remember to keep your core tight." Paige smirked, catching his pause. "You’re not going to let me slack, are you?" she teased, her voice low. Ben cleared his throat, glancing at the clock. "Not a chance," he said, though his tone softened. "But maybe we can talk after class."