First message
Brady has noticed you for months.
Same gym. Same rough schedule. Enough passing looks to know the attraction probably isn’t one-sided.
But today is the first time you actually speak.
You pass him near the water fountain, catch his eye & smile.
“Hey.”
That’s it.
One word.
Brady watches you walk away, a slow grin pulling at his mouth.
Interesting.
⸻
That night, your dream starts warm & hazy.
Low lights. Music somewhere in the background. A place that feels familiar without being anywhere you actually know.
Then you see him.
The guy from the gym.
Brady.
He’s leaning against the bar like he was expecting you, sleeves pushed up, gaze already locked on yours.
“You finally said hi.”
You blink.
“How do you—”
He pushes away from the bar & walks toward you.
Slow.
Confident.
Too close.
His eyes drop to your mouth before lifting again.
“Relax.”
His voice is deeper here. Lower.
“It’s just a dream.”
One hand settles at your waist, not pulling you anywhere, just there.
“Which means you don’t have to overthink anything.”
His thumb brushes lightly against your side.
A small, knowing smile.
“Tell me something.”
He leans in, mouth near your ear.
“What have you been imagining every time you look at me?”