#home treadmill incline

[dealshubspots]

Fitkit by Cult FT98 Steel (3HP Peak, Manual Incline) MaxWeight: 100kg Treadmill for Home Gym Fitness with 1 Year Warranty

Motor Horsepower: 3HP, Motor Type: DC-Motorized, Belt size: 1100x400 Milimeter, Speed: 1-12.8 kilometer per hour, Max Weight support: 100 Kilogram, recommended weight support: 80kg Lubrication: Manual. Always choose a treadmill that can support at least 20 more kilograms of weight than your current weight. LED display showing speed, time, distance, calories burned, heart rate monitoring via heart rate sensor. 12 preset workout programs for efficient workout and changeable modes, to create a customized routine of exercises For safety reasons, wearing proper athletic shoes on the treadmill is mandatory, instead of going Barefoot. Active post-sales and customer support – After delivery please contact us us for installation support (Working hours: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm) to register your installation. (Note: Service schedule varies by location). Warranty details: 1 Year manufacturer warranty on Motor and Manufacturing Defect, 3 Year Warranty on Frame. Fitkit is a part of Cult Brand. You are advised to buy/install a voltage stabilizer with the treadmill to protect the motor from power fluctuations and ensure its long life. Additionally, please connect the product to a power point with adequate earthing to ensure discharge of extra current. Read the full article

[cherylcompton3310]

UREVO Treadmill with Auto Incline - Tips for Maintenance

Maintaining your UREVO treadmill with auto incline can greatly enhance its performance and longevity. One effective method I use is to wipe down the surfaces regularly with a soft cloth after each workout. This helps remove any sweat or dust that may accumulate.

For the treadmill belt, I recommend checking the tension periodically. If it feels loose, you can adjust it following the guidelines in the user manual. This ensures a smooth running experience and prevents any potential wear and tear.

Additionally, lubricating the belt regularly will keep it running smoothly and quietly. UREVO provides excellent instructions for this process, making it easy for anyone to follow.

If you notice any build-up around the control panel or the incline mechanism, a gentle cleaning with a damp cloth can work wonders. Just be sure not to use any harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.

Overall, the UREVO treadmill with auto incline is a fantastic addition to any home gym, and with a little care, it can provide years of reliable service. Happy exercising!

[energiefitness12]

Choosing the Best Home Treadmill for Your Fitness Goals

A home treadmill is one of the best investments for maintaining an active lifestyle without stepping outside. Whether you’re looking for the best home treadmill with incline or simply searching for treadmills for sale near me, selecting the right model is crucial.

Benefits of Owning a Home Treadmill

A treadmill at home allows for convenient workouts at any time, regardless of weather conditions. It’s ideal for weight loss, cardiovascular health, and endurance building. Additionally, if you opt for the best treadmill for home with incline features, you can intensify your workouts and target different muscle groups effectively.

Key Features to Consider

When searching for the best home treadmill with incline, consider the following:

Motor Power: A higher HP motor provides smoother performance, especially for runners.

Incline Levels: Adjustable incline enhances calorie burning and mimics outdoor terrain.

Foldability: If you have limited space, choose a compact and foldable model.

Cushioning & Belt Size: A cushioned deck reduces joint impact, and a wider belt offers a comfortable running area.

Technology & Connectivity: Features like Bluetooth, pre-set programs, and heart rate monitors can enhance your experience.

Where to Buy a Home Treadmill

If you’re searching for treadmills for sale near me, Energie Fitness offers high-quality options that cater to various fitness levels. Explore their collection to find the best treadmill for home use that fits your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts

A home treadmill is an excellent addition to any fitness routine. By considering key features and purchasing from a reputable brand like Energie Fitness, you can achieve your health goals efficiently.

[maston121]

Home Treadmill With Incline

A home treadmill with incline is perfect for enhancing your cardio workouts by simulating uphill running or walking. It helps burn more calories, strengthen muscles, and improve endurance. Maston Fitness offers high-quality home treadmills with incline, featuring adjustable settings, sturdy frames, and advanced features for a seamless fitness experience. Upgrade your home gym with a home treadmill with incline from Maston Fitness and achieve your fitness goals effectively.

Visit: https://www.mastonfitness.com/category/treadmill

Add: Ras Al Khor Industrial Area - 01 Dubai UAE

Ph: 045916977, 0522326566

Email: info@mastonfitness.com

[active-fitness-store]

Treadmill Triumph: Unveiling the Best Treadmills for Home Workouts

Transforming your living space into a personal fitness sanctuary has never been easier with the latest innovations in home workout equipment. That's why we've curated a list of the finest treadmills, designed to seamlessly blend into your home and elevate your fitness routine. Say goodbye to weather-dependent outdoor runs and hello to a convenient, efficient, and effective home workout experience. Join us as we explore the top-rated treadmills that promise to bring the best of the gym to your doorstep.

Why choose a treadmill for home workouts?

Treadmills offer several advantages for those looking to exercise at home. Here are some compelling reasons to consider adding one to your fitness arsenal:

Convenience: Treadmills allow you to exercise at any time, regardless of weather conditions or time constraints. They are always ready for your workout.

Versatility: Whether you're into walking, jogging, or sprinting, a treadmill can accommodate various workout intensities. You can also adjust incline levels to simulate uphill runs.

Monitoring Progress: Most modern treadmills come with built-in fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitors and distance trackers. This data helps you stay motivated and measure your progress.

Low Impact: Treadmills provide a cushioned surface that reduces the impact on your joints compared to running on concrete or pavement, making them suitable for people of all fitness levels.

Multitasking: You can watch TV, listen to music, or even work while using a treadmill, making it easier to fit exercise into your daily routine.

The top treadmills for home workouts

ProForm Pro 2000

The ProForm Pro 2000 treadmill is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts for its exceptional performance and feature-rich design. The key features are listed below:

Motor Power: The Pro 2000 is equipped with a robust 3.25 CHP, ensuring smooth and consistent performance even during intense workouts.

Track Size: Its spacious 22" x 60" running deck provides ample room for comfortable strides, catering to users of various heights.

Incline/Decline: One standout feature is its automatic incline and decline settings. With a range of -3% to 12%, you can simulate uphill and downhill running for a more challenging workout.

Workout Programs: The treadmill offers a variety of built-in workout programs, catering to different fitness levels and goals. These programs provide diversity and keep your workouts engaging.

iFit Compatibility: ProForm Pro 2000 is iFit-compatible, allowing you to access a vast library of interactive workouts, scenic routes, and personal trainer guidance. It syncs seamlessly with iFit-enabled devices.

User Reviews: Users praise the ProForm Pro 2000 for its sturdy construction, quiet operation, and advanced features. It has garnered positive reviews for its ability to provide a gym-quality workout experience at home.

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is another highly regarded treadmill, known for its durability and technology integration. What sets it apart as an exceptional choice is:

Motor Power: This treadmill boasts a robust 3.75 CHP motor, ensuring powerful and consistent performance.

Track Size: The 22" x 60" running surface provides ample space for comfortable workouts, accommodating users of different sizes.

Incline/Decline: The Commercial 1750 offers an impressive -3% to 15% incline and decline range, allowing you to diversify your workouts and target different muscle groups.

Connectivity: It comes equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen display, making it easy to access a wide range of interactive workouts and explore virtual running routes around the world. It also offers Bluetooth connectivity for syncing with fitness apps.

User Reviews: satisfied for its sturdy build, quiet operation, and the immersive experience offered by the touchscreen display and iFit integration. It's suitable for users looking for high-tech workout options.

Sole F80

The Sole F80 treadmill is known for its reliability and comfort-enhancing features. Here's a brief overview:

Motor Power: It is powered by a 3.5 CHP motor, providing a smooth and consistent workout experience.

Track Size: The 22" x 60" running surface offers ample space for users to walk, jog, or run comfortably.

Cushioning System: Sole's Cushion Flex Whisper Deck is designed to reduce impact on joints, making it a great choice for those concerned about joint health.

Workout Programs: While it may have fewer built-in programs compared to some competitors, the F80 still offers a variety of workouts to keep you engaged.

User Reviews: Users appreciate the F80 for its reliability, durability, and comfortable running surface. It's an excellent choice for individuals looking for a dependable treadmill without the need for advanced tech features.

Horizon Fitness T101-04

The Horizon Fitness T101-04 is a budget-friendly option suitable for beginners and those with limited space. Here's what you need to know:

Affordability: The T101-04 is known for its affordability, making it an attractive choice for individuals on a budget.

Compact Design: It features a foldable frame, making it ideal for homes with limited space.

Motor Power: It comes with a 2.5-HP motor, suitable for light to moderate workouts.

User Reviews: worth its value for money, ease of assembly, and compact design. It's a great choice for those just starting their fitness journey or with space constraints.

 Conclusion 

In the quest for a healthier, more active lifestyle, the right treadmill can be your steadfast companion. As we conclude our journey through the best treadmills with incline for home workouts, remember that your fitness goals are within reach, just a few strides away. Whether you opt for high-tech marvels or budget-friendly wonders, treadmills are your gateway to a world of health and vitality from the comfort of your home. So, choose wisely, take those steps, and embark on a path to a fitter, stronger you. Your fitness adventure awaits!

[maxprofitness]

Why Treadmill Maintenance is Crucial for Long-Term Performance

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your treadmill operates smoothly, safely, and effectively over its lifespan. Here’s why prioritizing treadmill maintenance is important:

1. Optimal Performance

Regular maintenance helps preserve the treadmill's performance capabilities. Tasks such as lubricating the belt, cleaning the deck, and inspecting the motor ensure smooth operation and prevent issues like belt slippage or motor strain. This ensures a consistent and enjoyable workout experience every time you use the treadmill.

2. Extended Lifespan

Proper maintenance significantly extends the lifespan of your treadmill. By addressing wear and tear promptly and keeping components in good condition, you reduce the risk of premature breakdowns or costly repairs. Regular maintenance also protects your investment in fitness equipment, maximizing its value over time.

3. Safety Assurance

A well-maintained treadmill is safer to use. Regular inspections and adjustments help identify and address potential safety hazards, such as loose bolts, frayed belts, or malfunctioning electronics. This reduces the risk of accidents or injuries during workouts, ensuring a safe exercise environment for users.

4. Cost Savings

Routine maintenance is more cost-effective than repairing or replacing damaged treadmill components. Preventative measures, such as cleaning and lubricating, help prevent major issues that could require expensive repairs or replacement parts. By investing in regular maintenance, you minimize downtime and reduce long-term repair costs.

5. Preservation of Warranty

Following the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines helps preserve the warranty coverage of your treadmill. Many warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. Adhering to these guidelines ensures you can take advantage of warranty protections if unexpected issues arise with your treadmill.

6. Improved Resale Value

A well-maintained treadmill retains higher resale value if you decide to upgrade or sell it in the future. Potential buyers are more likely to invest in a treadmill that has been properly cared for and maintained, reflecting its reliability and longevity.

Conclusion

Prioritizing treadmill maintenance is essential for optimizing performance, extending lifespan, ensuring safety, saving costs, preserving warranty coverage, and maintaining resale value. By incorporating regular maintenance into your fitness equipment care routine, you enhance your treadmill's overall reliability and functionality for years to come.

[technicallyhappyarcade]

Treadmill for Home: The Ultimate Guide to Home Treadmill

Treadmill for Home: We receive free products and commissions through our links. See the disclosures page.

A treadmill can be an invaluable piece of home gym equipment. The best treadmill for home gyms provides an opportunity to train cardiovascular health, and research has proven that cardio training comes with endless benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, weight management, and eliminating the onset of diabetes. (1) Although many might argue using a treadmill isn’t as effective as running or walking outdoors, an at-home treadmill provides year-long opportunities to train with various inclines that emulate different types of terrain.

With the recent surge in technological advancements, finding the right treadmill might require more effort than you think. Purchasing the wrong treadmill might lead to frustrating or ineffective workouts, or it might not fit your space. This article will discuss our top picks for at-home treadmills, highlighting key features that will help you find the right one.

How We Chose the Best Treadmill for Home

Several of the treadmills we review below are ones we’ve tried in our testing facility in Springfield, MO. Out of the nearly four dozen available treadmills, we narrowed it down to what we feel are the eight best machines.

When making our selections, we aimed to cater to a diverse range of users, including elite athletes and casual exercisers. We included treadmills with a justifiable price point while accommodating high- and low-intensity workouts. Some of our treadmills came with a heavy price tag but also had top-of-the-line features and characteristics, such as interactive programming and auto-fold technology.

Because these treadmills are intended for a home gym, they must be compatible with most spaces. To that end, some machines on the list below fold up for storage and have a condensed footprint. Another factor we considered was durability, so you can maximize the value of your investment while minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Our Top Picks for the Best Treadmills for Home

Best Treadmill for Home Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

Overall dimensions: 80” L x 38” W x 65” H

Deck size: 60” L x 20” W

Max speed: 12 miles per hour

Max incline: 12 percent

Decline: -3 percent

Programming: iFit (free for 30 days, then $39 per month)

Motor: 3.5 CHP motor

Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Check Price

Pros

Powerful motor

14-inch tilted interactive touchscreen

Inclines and declines

SpeedSaver foldable design

Trainer-led iFIT workouts

Auto-adjust technology

Cons

Difficult assembly

iFit membership expires after 30 days unless you decide to renew

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 wins the award for the best home gym treadmill. Its reputation stems from its stellar list of high-end features for high- or low-intensity workouts. This smart treadmill provides a powerful 3.5 CHP (continuous horsepower) motor, allowing you to run at a top speed of 12 miles per hour. It also has an impressive decline and incline range, going down to a negative three-percent decline or up to a 12-percent incline to emulate different terrain, such as roads running at different elevations.

Its 14-inch tilted interactive HD touchscreen allows you to perform trainer-led workouts through iFIT, an expansive on-demand library of over 1,000 activities. It includes a variety of programs, from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions to yoga practices. It’s like having your own trainer. However, it costs around $39 monthly after a 30-day free trial.

When exercising, the 1750 uses SmartAdjust technology to adapt to your performance, making each session personalized and efficient. SmartAdjust is a unique technology that keeps track of the changes to your NordicTrack machine while working out. It remembers these changes and uses them later to help your device adapt to your training level for future workouts.

Furthermore, if you don’t have a lot of space in your home gym, you’ll likely appreciate that the 1750 folds up and has wheels, allowing you to quickly move it out of the way when you’re not using it.

These intuitive features come with an expensive price tag—the 1750 starts at around $2499. Plus, you’ll have to pay for it if you decide to keep the subscription after your trial ends.

Complicated assembly is another potential drawback. I owned a NordicTrack treadmill, which took about two days to assemble. This is also due to my busy work schedule, which could resonate with others who purchase this treadmill. But with this being one of the more advanced models, I recommend researching and putting time aside to effectively set up your treadmill without any issues. It comes with a paper manual, and you can access a virtual manual showing you how to perform each step.

RELATED: Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss, Low-Impact Workouts, and More

[bestalbertcamuslover]

Three-Hour Workout Wonders

↳ Masterlist

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

✯ pairing:  Franco Colapito x Reader ✯

✯ content warnings: none✯

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

Her strict parents had started to grow suspicious of her gym visits. Every time, she would leave the house and return about three hours later. Strength training, treadmill sessions—whatever she was supposedly doing, three hours seemed excessive. She was eighteen, but her parents still kept a tight grip on her life, a frustrating consequence of choosing not to study abroad and remaining under their roof.

With her gym tote slung over her left shoulder, she headed out the door, an excited, almost giddy smile lighting up her face.

“Going to the gym?” her dad called out from the kitchen.

“Yeah,” she replied, her hand already on the door handle.

“When will you be back?” he asked, his tone casual but with an edge of curiosity.

She shrugged. “Maybe in an hour or so.”

His raised eyebrow was all the accusation he needed. “Really? Because lately, it’s been more like three,” he said, his tone growing more suspicious.

“I don’t know,” she shot back, defensive. “Depends on how busy it is, okay?”

“Okay, okay,” he said, backing off.

As she stepped outside, her smile returned, brighter this time, relief washing over her now that he hadn’t pressed further. The grin didn’t fade the entire walk to the gym, and adrenaline coursed through her veins as she approached the building.

Her workout began like any other Friday routine: lower-body exercises followed by some incline walking on the treadmill—nothing too intense. But her eyes darted to her watch every few minutes, not because she was tired, but because she was waiting.

Two hours later, he appeared. Franco.

Their eyes met across the gym, a fleeting but meaningful. Without hesitation, she pressed the stop button on the treadmill and stepped off, heading discreetly toward the restrooms. A few minutes later, Franco followed, careful not to attract unwanted attention.

His lips met hers in a hungry kiss, his hands resting on her hips, pulling her impossibly close. She wrapped her arms around his neck as the kiss deepened.

“Why don’t we go to my place?” he murmured.

“My parents have my location,” she managed between breaths.

Franco’s hands skimmed up her sides, warm and steady, before settling just beneath her ribs. His lips found her jaw first—soft, slow kisses trailing down to the sensitive spot beneath her ear. She shivered, her fingers curling against his shoulders.

“Also, I don’t have much time,” she whispered. “My parents are starting to get suspicious.”

“You’re making this really difficult,” he muttered, his voice low and rough against her skin.

She swallowed hard, tilting her head to give him more access. “Difficult how?”

He exhaled, his breath warm as his mouth moved lower, pressing a kiss just above her collarbone. “Difficult to let you walk out of here like nothing happened.”

Her heart pounded against her ribs, her fingers slipping into his curls and tugging lightly. He groaned softly at the feeling, his grip on her tightening.

“Then don’t,” she whispered.

Franco huffed a quiet laugh, pulling back just enough to meet her gaze. His eyes were dark, focused, hungry. “You know you don’t have a choice.”

She did. And yet, the thought of stepping away from him, of returning home like she hadn’t just had his hands all over her, sent a sharp pang through her chest.

So she kissed him again—slow, deep, lingering. His hands slid down to her waist, pulling her flush against him, and he backed her gently against the wall, his lips never leaving hers.

He kissed her like he was making up for all the time they didn’t have. Like he could stretch these stolen minutes into something bigger, something permanent.

Her back hit the cool tile, a contrast to the heat of his body pressed against hers. He tilted her chin up, lips tracing the line of her throat, and she bit down on her lower lip, her breath hitching.

“Franco,” she murmured, almost like a warning—but not really.

His teeth grazed her skin before he soothed the spot with another kiss, his grip tightening on her hips. “I know,” he muttered. “You have to go.”

She nodded, though neither of them moved.

He sighed against her skin, then pulled back just enough to rest his forehead against hers, his fingers ghosting over the hem of her t-shirt. “This is torture.”

She smiled softly, brushing her lips over his. “A little.”

His eyes flicked down to her lips, then back up. “I hate it.”

“I know.”

Franco sighed again, but this time, his hands slid down, giving her waist one last squeeze before finally—reluctantly—stepping back.

“Text me when you get home,” he muttered.

She nodded, trying not to let the disappointment settle in her chest. “I will.”

He watched her for another moment, as if memorizing her, then smirked slightly. “And next time—”

“What?” she asked, arching a brow.

His grin widened, wicked and knowing. “Wear something I can take off.”

Heat flooded her cheeks, but she rolled her eyes, shoving him lightly before grabbing her tote.

“You’re impossible.”

He caught her wrist before she could fully step away, tugging her in for one last, searing kiss. When he finally let her go, his voice was softer, more serious.

“But I really like you.”

Her heart swelled, and she smiled, squeezing his hand. “I really like you too.”

And then, before she could convince herself to stay, she slipped out the door.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

✯ authors note: English is not my first language, and I hope you liked it <3

[blissfulvixen]

Habit Ideas Masterlist

Body care

• Consistent skincare routine

• Remove makeup before bed

• Dry brushing

• Put on lotion or oil after shower

• Hair masks

• Drink 2L or more of water a day

• Get split ends trimmed

• Keep nails clean and maintained

• Wear SPF on your face and body

Therapeutic

• Journal daily/weekly

• Curate your social media feed

• Meditate before bed

• Sing, cry, shake, run, dance, stim, draw, paint - let it out!

• Talk to someone you trust

• Listen to an affirmative podcast

• Advocate for yourself

• Pet an animal

• Go for a walk or run

Movement

• Try YouTube yoga videos

• Pilates

• Dynamic stretching before workouts

• Incline walking on treadmill

• Walks in your area

• Weightlifting

• Pinterest workouts

• HIIT training

•Calisthenics

Mealtime

• Don’t follow fad diets

• Listen to your hunger cues

• Eat foods that nourish and energize

• Learn the recommended protein intake for your body

• Take time to learn about what ingredients are in your food

• Take multivitamins or supplements

Intellectual

• Listen to podcasts

• Read for 10 mins nightly

• Carry a notepad with you for ideas

• Use a planner

• Annotate books you read

At Home

• Satin or silk pillowcases

• Invest in your home as your sanctuary

• Declutter on a regular basis

• Change your sheets weekly

Financial

• Use a budgeting app

• Build and monitor your credit

• Pay off small debt first

• Start an emergency fund

• Open a Roth IRA and contribute a small amount monthly

Social

• Find a pen-pal

• Practice a language on Duolingo

• Set and maintain clear boundaries

• Create a blog/vlog

Spiritual

• Burn incense or candles

• Pray

• Meditate

• Read about your religion or beliefs

• Connect in spiritual/religious online spaces and communities

• Spend time in nature

[amyrahrose]

Content warning: Sukunaxreader smut, penetration, multiple positions, dominant Sukuna! , unprotected sex, pet names, Sexual theme, Adult theme, talking her through it, <READER IS BLACK FEMALE CODED>

Authur's Note→ 18 and Under, GET TA STEPPIN! I know for sure this will be broken into parts, however I'm not sure how many parts will be to this. I just decided to get back into writing little dabbles here and there so I'm honestly just testing the waters with this. Slightly proofread (English is my first language, but even the baddest of Bitches still make mistakes! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯) I do hope you guys enjoy! 🤎

Synopsis: You’ve decided that you would begin your fitness journey. Accompanying your best friend, today’s the day where you’ll being taking working out and going to the gym seriously (well kind of). Lacking motivation and ready to go back home to lounge around to watch some TV and pig out, that all changes when suddenly you meet this drop dead gorgeous as hell man. Will he be the inspiration you need to continue your new lifestyle?

w.c» 2.1 K

“Sis, I love you I do, but the gym life isn’t meant for someone like me.” You panted out.

You weren’t sure why the sudden urge to accompany your best friend to the gym came about. Maybe it was because you were tired of always feeling burned out, sluggish and lazy. Possibly because you seen how fit, and fucking sexy, your best friend was getting after starting her fitness journey a while back. Whatever the reason, it went out the window the moment you set foot inside the gym complex with her and tried, very pathetically, to keep up with the routine she’d developed for herself. 

“Fuck this,” you thought, “I’d rather be home eating ice cream while watching Flavor of Love.” 

“See, that’s your problem right there. Rather be watching old TV shows and being lazy then getting your sexy on.” She fired back at you making you realize the last thought was actually out loud. You rolled your eyes playfully before glancing back over to her. 

 Both you and your best friend were on the treadmill walking at an incline with the speed up more that you would have liked. She was barely breaking a sweat, having gotten comfortable on the machine while jamming out to her workout playlist. She had on a two-piece workout set, showing off her toned stomach and big ass. You glanced around the gym, catching a few of the men every now and then peeking over at her, trying to get her attention. 

You on the other hand, you were barely making it. Panting like a dog in heat, your workout set you borrowed from her was sweated out, and your puff was starting to frizz out from all the sweating going on in your head. You could only imaged how you may have looked to everyone else inside the gym.

“C’mon Jade, I applaud you for your fitness journey but obviously I’m not ready, I should have at least started off slow so I could get used to it.” You whined out. She snorted out a laugh while throwing you a look. 

“Oh no ma’am, I tried to do that for you, but you were the one that said you could keep up.” She said as a matter of fact. All you could do was huff in annoyance at her response, because she was right. You figured anything she could do you would’ve been able to. You assumed it wouldn’t have been that bad, but you quickly seen the lie in that. 

“Whatever.” You mumbled as she smiled triumphantly, knowing she won the argument. 

“I’m not even tripping,” You began, “I’m about to get my unfit ass off this treadmill and head home, take a shower and be lazy.” You said determined. 

“Seriously Y/n? We’ve barely been here for forty-five minutes.” She looked at you with a judgemental look. You promised, no matter how much you might’ve complained, to see it through and finish the workout. But fuck that, Flavor of Love and a tube of ice cream was calling your ass. 

“Nah sis, I tap out. And there’s nothing or no one that’s gonna make me change my mi-”

“Uh excuse me miss?” 

You heard a deep, baritone voice sound off behind you. Startled, you whipped your head around to tell off the person for interrupting your monologue only to be stopped dead in your tracks with the sight before you. 

There stood a man, looking like the epitome of a gym God. You were met with a chiseled face, a smirk etched across his features. Sharp, bold crimson red eyes that stared down at you with a glint of amusement and playfulness. He graced you with his shirt off showing his toned washboard abs, littered with tattoos and sweat cascading down his torso, all the way down to his deep V-line. Gray gym shorts that hung dangerous low off his hips, not missing the way he was flexing his sculptured legs. Along with huge forearms that were decorated with dark line tattoos as well. 

In the mist of eye fucking the man, you briefly forgot you were on a moving treadmill, almost busting your ass in front of him and the whole gym. Before making a fool of yourself, he caught you just as you were about to fall off. Wrapping his huge forearms around your waist, securing you in place.

“Woah, you alright ma?” He asked. You looked up to his face, seeing his eyebrows furrow in concern. You also caught the sweat dripping, oh so deliciously off the tip of his nose, resisting the sudden urge to reach up and poke the tip of your tongue out to catch it. 

“What the fuck is wrong with me?” You thought to yourself.

You gulped as you stared into deep into his crimson eyes, becoming entranced by them. He shook you lightly to capture your attention again.

 “Hey, you sure you good?” He asked again. He wrapped his arms around you tighter while staring back into your eyes waiting on a response. 

“Y/n, girl say something.” Your best friend broke the silence. You gasped and looked down, becoming embarrassed by your actions.

“Oh yea, I’m good, thank you for catching me.” You answered timidly. 

Being plushed against his chest, you melted like puddy feeling the vibrations coming off from his deep chuckle at your response. 

“Good, wouldn’t want a pretty lil’ thing like you hurting herself.” He answered with a smirk. 

You looked up at him shocked, making his smirk deepen. 

“Maybe being at the gym wasn’t so bad.” You thought. 

“I hate to break up this lil’ love session, but we were in the middle of working out. While at least I was, my friend here was getting ready to lea-” Jade started before you cut her off abruptly. 

“Oh uh yea, I actually was about to get off the treadmill and head over to start on the stair master.” You found yourself saying, trying to give off the impression you come to the gym all the time. Without having to look back at your best friend you know she was giving you a “Bitch, are you serious” look into the back of your head, so much so it made your scalp start itching.

The man, still with his arms around you, let out a deep laugh this time. 

“Is that so ma? ‘Cause from the looks of it, you seem like you was struggling on this treadmill.” He said with a hint of playfulness in his voice. His response caught you off-guard while it made Jade throw her head back, cackling. Caught red handed, you chuckled lightly. 

“Was it that obvious?” You asked, not realizing you placed your hands on-top of his forearms while standing comfortably in his embrace, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. He smiled down at your while unconsciously giving you a light squeeze. 

“Yea that and your panting, I could hear you over the speakers ma.” He joked causing your to groan in embarrassment. Despite the awkwardness of him catching you in a lie, you both stay in your current position, neither of you moving. Only deepening the stare you both were committed in. Your best friend looked between you and the mysterious man. Dispelling whatever magnetic charm you both had each other captivated in, Jade cleared her through signaling both of you to gaze in her direction. 

“Not trying to be rude or anything, but what exactly was your reasoning for coming over?” Jade got straight to the point. Even though she knew the answer to it. Despite your own thoughts over your appearance, you were drop dead gorgeous. From you bra-length natural hair, medium brown complexion, big doe eyes, plush lips and a curvaceous body, Stevie Wonder could even see how fine you were. You just had to get out of your head about your looks. But Jade knew that was easier said that done, otherwise you wouldn’t have forced yourself to accompany her to the gym. However seeing how transfixed you’ve become around this guy, she was more than glad that you did tag along. 

“Oh uh right, well I seen how hard of a time she was having with the treadmill, I just wanted to come over and suggest a few pointers.” The man stated. He wasn’t lying, that was part of his reason for coming over. The other part was to introduce himself to you. He noticed you the moment you and your best friend walked inside the gym and was immediately hooked. He knew without a doubt he wasn’t leaving this gym until he at least got your name, and hopefully your number. 

“Oh how sweet of you.” Jade said playfully when an idea popped inside of her mind. She threw a cheshire cat smile at the both of you before continuing her statement. 

“Seeing that you want to make sure Y/n is doing the workouts correctly, why don’t you guys start coming to the gym together.” She said with a glint in her eyes.

“If motivation is what you want”, Jade thought to herself, he’s definitely all the motivation you need Y/n.” 

You whipped your head around almost giving yourself whiplash, looking at your best friend as if she just lost her mind. From the looks of the guy, he took his workouts serious. You barely kept up with Jade, why in the hell did she think you would be able to keep up with him?

You were getting ready to shoot down the idea when he began talking. 

“I don’t mind ma, that’s if you’re up to it?” He asked hopeful. He was silently thanking your best friend for being his voluntary wingman in assisting a chance for him to see you again. You turned back to face him, meeting his hopeful stare and small smile, giving you all the push you needed to slowly nod your head yes at the proposal. His smile deepened as he squeezed you once more. Realizing you were still in his arms, his actions caused you to gasp slightly, making Jade chuckle at the interaction. 

“Cool, I work out pretty much everyday around eight at night, so whatever day works best for you ma, I’m available.” He stated as he looked down into your light brown, doe eyes. He couldn’t help but image how they would be closed slightly, hooded with lust as he pinned you under him while he thrusted deep ins-

“Sure, uhm how about this Wednesday night? That’ll work best.” You cut off his thoughts with your proposal. Coughing as he blushed from his vivid thoughts, he nodded in acknowledgement. Hell, you could’ve said to meet up on Mars at the eleventh hour to workout, he would’ve made damn sure to make it work just to be around you again. 

Sliding his arms from around your waist, you tried to hide the disappointed sigh that escaped from your lips, causing him to smirk lightly. 

“Alright ma, that’s a bet. Give me your number and I’ll text you later to make sure you don’t flake on me.” He joked. You rolled your eyes playfully and smacked your teeth, causing him to shoot his eyebrows up in amusement. 

“Oh she has a ‘lil attitude problem, I’m gonna have to set that straight.” He thought to himself. 

“Boy whatever.” You said as you tried hiding your smile. You reached out your hand, signaling for him to hand over his phone. You typed in your cell number and text yourself so you could go in later and put him into your contact list. Handing him back his phone, he let his hand intertwine with yours longer than it needed to be, sparking an electric jolt to course from your fingertips all the way over your body. 

“Cool, I’ll see you Wednesday ma.” He said with a small smile before turning away to walk back to the area he was working out at. You gave a small nod, about to turn back to Jade before realizing you never caught his name. In a hurry you called out to him to grab his attention. 

“Hey wait, I never got your name?” You said with a small pout. The action making his dick stir a little in his gray shorts. 

He looked you up and down before catching your gaze again with a smirk to his lips. 

“Sukuna.” He said with wink and turned to leave. 

You stayed hypnotized in the same spot he left you, watching his figure walk away before you heard your best friend behind you. 

“See you got your own Flavor of Love right here, didn’t even have to go home for it.” 

© 2024 Amyrahrose. Please do not translate, copy, plagiarize, or repost (sharing links is fine 🤎) without my permission. You will only find my entries/content on tumblr!

[sugardollyxoxo]

Dolly's guide to glow this summer ✨🐬

visualize 💭

We all have that dream version of ourselves living in our heads, but with school and work, it can be tough to actually bring her to life. Now that classes are wrapping up and summer’s right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start becoming her 🎀

Pinterest and Canva are amazing tools when it comes to figuring out your vibe. When you’re scrolling through Pinterest, don’t just save the first cute thing you see. Instead, ask yourself things like: “What would she wear?” “How does her hair look?” “What’s her everyday makeup?” Thinking this way helps you build a clear, consistent aesthetic to aim for.

For the next part, grab that cute notebook you’ve been saving because now’s the time to finally use it. Grab a pen in your fave color and start by answering these:

How does she talk?

What are her core values?

What’s a day in her life like?

move move move 🛼

The fastest way to bring out your inner glow is by moving your body. When you move, you increase blood flow and sweat, which helps flush out toxins and improve circulation. This, in turn, reduces inflammation and gives you that radiant glow🌟

One of the best things about summer is that there are so many fun ways to get active—it’s easier to sweat and feel good. Whether it’s a 30-minute walk or a 1-hour gym session, simply moving your body is already a win. Below, I’ll list some cute and easy ways to get moving:

Hot girl walks🌸 – Put on a cute outfit, turn on your fave playlist, and stroll around your local park or neighborhood.

Incline walking on the treadmill – A great alternative if you’d rather stay out of the sun but still want the benefits.

At-home Pilates & workouts – Throw on a cute set and follow a YouTube tutorial (just make sure the instructor is certified). Below are some of my fave channels!!

https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyKeech

https://www.youtube.com/@MadeleineAbeid/videos

https://www.youtube.com/@MoveWithNicole

https://www.youtube.com/@LillySabri

nourishment 🥒

The key to keeping that inner glow shining really comes down to your diet. When you regularly eat ultra-processed foods and lots of sugar, your body will show it, whether you want it to or not. This can lead to persistent low mood, continuous breakouts, and even premature aging. To fight back, focus on eating a diet full of fruits, veggies, and healthy fats. ✨

Here are a few tips to help glow from the inside out:

Struggle with getting in fruits & veggies? Try making a smoothie or looking into supplements—but always talk to your doctor first so you’re not taking anything unnecessary or harmful.

Add collagen & omega-3-rich foods like bone broth, chicken skin, salmon, and citrus fruits. These support skin health and boost elasticity.

Green tea + kombucha = goddess glow🌟 They’re packed with powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, protect your cells, support gut health, and just overall benefit your health.

The (not so) secret to keeping your skin glowy and juicy is hydration!!! You need to stay hydrated both inside and out to get that natural radiance. When your body is well-hydrated, your circulation improves, more nutrients are delivered to your skin and cells, and toxins get flushed out. Below are some ways to stay hydrated:

Eat more water-rich fruits and veggies like strawberries, watermelon, cucumber, cantaloupe, lettuce, and spinach.

DRINK YOUR WATER!!!💦 If you struggle with plain water, try adding the mentioned fruits and veggies for a light, refreshing flavor (cucumber & strawberries are my faves) You can also use electrolyte powders, my top rec is the one from Ultima.

Alternatives If I’m not in the mood for water, I’ll also go for coconut water, tea, or 100% fruit juice (make sure it’s not from concentrate!).

skin 🧖‍♀️

When it comes to soft, shiny skin, exfoliation + hydration is the ultimate duo (with consistency of course) I like to focus on hydration during the day and exfoliation at night, since your skin is more sensitive to the sun after exfoliating.

DRY BRUSH, DRY BRUSH, DRY BRUSH!!! I've seen such a drastic difference in my skin texture since doing it consistently, especially paired with a good scrub.

About body scrubs... I know it hurts to hear this, but ditch the sweet scented ones and invest in a good chemical body scrub with AHA, BHA, or glycolic acid. They penetrate the skin and dissolve dead skin cells more efficiently and promote cell turn over leading to smoother & brighter skin.

If you’re prone to dry skin like me, skip the pricey body oils and pick up a petroleum based product like Vaseline or Aquaphor. Petroleum creates a barrier that locks in moisture, effectively preventing moisture loss and it works so well.

SPF!!!!!!!☀️I cannot stress this enough—protect your skin, always.

This is the first time i've ever made a long post like this, i hope it was helpful !!! please reach out if you have any questions, stay gorgeous dolls 🐬🫧🌸

[dealshubspots]

Cockatoo SmartRun3.5 3.5HP Peak DC Motorized Treadmill for Home, with 3 Level Manual Incline, Max Speed 16 Km/Hr, Max User Weight 120Kg,(DIY, Do It Yourself Installation)

Powerful Motor: Equipped with a 3.5HP Peak (2HP Regular) motor, providing consistent performance for all workout intensities, ideal for both walking and running. Speed Range and Display: The treadmill offers a speed range of 1.0-14.0 km/h, with a clear 3.5'' blue background display that shows speed, heart rate, and more. Customizable Workouts: Features P1-P12 pre-set programs, three counting modes. Durable Design: Supports a maximum user weight of 120 kg (90Kg Running, 120 Kg Walking), with a spacious 400*1100mm running area, providing a comfortable and safe workout experience. Incline: a 3-level manual incline to add variety and challenge to your exercise routine. Read the full article

[sethrollinsxreader]

Took photos from @rollins4eva

It was a humid Saturday morning, and the smell of chalk and effort clung to the walls of the downtown CrossFit gym. Seth Rollins sweaty, bearded, and looking unfairly good in his black Superman tee and striped pastel shorts was already deep into his workout. He was grunting through sets of rope climbs while casually tossing playful glances at Y/N, who sat perched on a plyo box with her iced coffee like a proud but puzzled spectator.

Y/N was no stranger to the gym. She could spend an hour on the treadmill, breeze through a Zumba class, and still look like she walked off a skincare ad. But Seth’s kind of gym? It was another world entirely sledgehammers, battle ropes, weighted vests. She called it “the land where cardio goes to die.”

Seth, catching his breath and wiping his brow, strolled over with that grin. The one that meant mischief. The one that melted resolve.

“Babe,” he said, planting a kiss on her forehead, “you ever thought about trying a real workout?”

Y/N narrowed her eyes. “Are you saying my cardio isn’t real?”

Seth laughed. “No, no just saying there’s a whole world beyond elliptical machines. Come on, do a few sets with me. Just try it.”

“Absolutely not.”

But somehow maybe it was the grin, maybe it was his sheer enthusiasm she found herself lacing up her sneakers and walking toward the rig.

Seth was gentle at first. A couple of bodyweight squats, some modified push-ups. Y/N powered through them with only minimal grumbling. She was even starting to enjoy it… until the burpees started.

“Who invented these? Why do you people do this to yourselves?” she wheezed, halfway through her fifth one.

“You’re doing great!” Seth cheered from behind a loaded barbell. “You’ve got this, baby!”

Y/N shot him a look that could have set off the fire alarm. “If I die here, tell my mom it was your fault.”

The rope climbs were the final straw. Y/N stood at the base of the thick, coiled monster like it had personally offended her. She jumped. Slid. Tried again. Nope. Gravity won every time.

Seth, still hyped and supportive, jogged over. “Alright, alright. Maybe we save that one for next time.”

“There won’t be a next time,” she muttered, flopping dramatically onto a mat like she was auditioning for a soap opera. “I am not built for CrossFit. I’m built for playlists and incline walks.”

Seth dropped beside her, laughing. “Fair. But hey you tried. That’s what counts. And you looked amazing doing it.”

Y/N rolled her eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “You owe me brunch.”

“Deal. Pancakes. And maybe a little yoga afterward?”

She raised a brow. “You just can’t stop, can you?”

Seth leaned in, kissing her cheek. “Not when I’ve got the cutest gym partner in the world.”

Y/N was certain she’d never walked slower in her life. Her legs were jelly, her arms felt like they’d been borrowed from someone much weaker, and her sports bra had made a vow to never forgive her. She leaned heavily on Seth’s arm as they exited the gym and headed toward their favorite brunch spot a couple blocks away Sunny Side Up, a cozy little cafe with mismatched mugs and miracle-level mimosas.

Seth, of course, was bouncing with post-workout energy. He looked like he could climb another rope, do twenty more deadlifts, and still run home. His pastel shorts swung smugly with each step.

“Can’t believe I survived,” Y/N groaned as they walked in and slid into their usual booth. “That was barbaric.”

“You crushed it,” Seth said, practically glowing. “Even your dramatic collapse was elite-level.”

“Please,” she deadpanned. “I collapsed in style.”

A waitress came over, smiling knowingly at them. “The usual?”

“Yes,” Seth nodded. “And extra whipped cream. She earned it.”

Y/N slumped into the booth like it was a cloud. “Make that two mimosas. One for me and one for the ghost of my quads.”

Moments later, the table was full of food: a tower of protein pancakes for Seth, with peanut butter and banana slices artfully stacked; for Y/N, a breakfast burrito the size of her forearm and a pile of golden hash browns glistening in the sun.

Seth dug in with the enthusiasm of a man who just squatted a small car. Y/N picked up her mimosa first, sipping it with the air of a woman who had been through things.

“I hope you know,” she said between bites of hash brown, “this doesn’t mean I’m joining your crazy workouts now.”

“Of course not,” Seth said with a smirk. “I just wanted to see you in gym shorts and a headband. Mission accomplished.”

She kicked him lightly under the table.

“But,” he added, reaching across to steal a hash brown, “I gotta admit it was nice having you there. Even if you gave the rope climb a death glare.”

Y/N grinned, setting down her fork. “You’re lucky I like you, CrossFit King.”

Seth leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand, eyes full of that soft sparkle he saved just for her. “Luck’s got nothing to do with it, baby. I just picked the best brunch partner in the world.”

They toasted with their mimosas his a polite sip, hers a triumphant gulp and for a moment, the soreness, sweat, and rope trauma faded into a quiet, syrupy happiness.

By the time they got home, the food coma had fully settled in.

Y/N padded into the apartment and immediately peeled off her sneakers with a groan so dramatic it could’ve won an Oscar. She left them by the door like abandoned soldiers from a fitness war. Seth followed behind her, still humming a tune he’d picked up at the gym, acting as if he hadn’t just burned a thousand calories before brunch.

“I’m never moving again,” Y/N announced, collapsing face-first onto the couch. “This is my final resting place. You can bury me with an ice pack and a bottle of ibuprofen.”

Seth chuckled, tossing a blanket over her and plopping down beside her. “Told you I’d go easy on you.”

She peeked at him from beneath the throw. “Easy? That was CrossFit Lite? What’s the full version, a Spartan race through lava?”

He leaned over and kissed her temple. “You’re tougher than you think.”

“I’m also smarter than I look,” she muttered. “Which is why I’m never doing that again.”

“Fair,” Seth said, kicking his feet up and pulling her into his lap. “But you earned all the post-workout snuggles. That’s the real reward.”

Y/N sighed as she curled into him, her head resting against his chest. He smelled like his cologne, faint sweat, and the faintest trace of maple syrup. She would’ve stayed in that exact spot forever if her thighs didn’t remind her of every squat she foolishly agreed to do.

Seth ran a hand gently through her hair, slow and soothing. “You really did good today.”

“I did medium,” she murmured sleepily. “At best.”

“That’s more than enough for me.”

The TV played quietly in the background—a nature documentary neither of them was really watching. Outside, the afternoon sun peeked through the blinds, casting soft stripes across the living room.

Y/N shifted slightly to look up at him. “You know I love you, right?”

Seth smiled, eyes warm. “Even though I made you burpee?”

“Especially because you didn’t laugh when I fell doing one.”

“Oh, I absolutely laughed. I just did it on the inside.”

She smacked his chest lightly, but the grin never left her face. She closed her eyes, letting the steady rhythm of his heartbeat lull her further into comfort.

And just like that, surrounded by warmth, soreness, and syrupy satisfaction, the cardio queen and the CrossFit king fell into the softest kind of silence the kind that says, this is home.

[energiefitness12]

Best Home Treadmill with Incline: Your Ultimate Fitness Partner

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a consistent workout routine can be challenging. However, having the right equipment at home can make all the difference. When it comes to cardio workouts, a treadmill stands out as one of the most effective and versatile machines. Among the various options available, the best home treadmill with incline offers a range of benefits that can help you achieve your fitness goals more efficiently. Let's explore why an incline treadmill should be your top choice for home fitness and how it can elevate your workout experience.

Why Choose a Home Treadmill with Incline?

1. Enhanced Calorie Burn

One of the primary benefits of using a treadmill with incline is the increased calorie burn. By walking or running on an incline, you engage more muscle groups, particularly in your lower body. This added effort results in a higher calorie expenditure, making your workouts more effective for weight loss and overall fitness.

2. Improved Cardiovascular Health

Incline training helps improve cardiovascular health by increasing the intensity of your workouts. This heightened intensity forces your heart to work harder, which can enhance your cardiovascular endurance and reduce the risk of heart-related issues. Regular use of a treadmill with incline can lead to significant improvements in your heart health over time.

3. Strengthened Muscles

Using an incline treadmill targets different muscle groups than flat-surface running or walking. It primarily works your calves, hamstrings, glutes, and quads. By varying the incline levels, you can customize your workouts to focus on specific muscle groups, leading to balanced and strengthened muscles throughout your lower body.

4. Joint-Friendly Workouts

Running or walking on an incline can be gentler on your joints compared to outdoor surfaces. The cushioned deck of a treadmill provides better shock absorption, reducing the impact on your knees and ankles. This makes incline treadmills a great option for individuals with joint concerns or those recovering from injuries.

5. Versatility and Customization

The best home treadmills with incline come equipped with various preset programs and customizable options. You can adjust the incline and speed to match your fitness level and goals. Whether you're looking for a challenging uphill climb or a gentle walk, an incline treadmill allows you to tailor your workout to your specific needs.

Features to Look for in the Best Home Treadmill with Incline

1. Adjustable Incline Levels

A top-quality treadmill should offer a range of incline levels, allowing you to increase the intensity of your workouts gradually. Look for models that provide both manual and automatic incline adjustments for added convenience.

2. Sturdy Construction

Durability is crucial for home fitness equipment. Ensure that the treadmill you choose has a robust frame and a high weight capacity to accommodate different users. A sturdy construction also ensures the machine's longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.

3. User-Friendly Console

A user-friendly console with clear display metrics is essential for tracking your progress. Features like heart rate monitoring, calorie tracking, and workout programs can enhance your exercise experience and keep you motivated.

4. Spacious Running Surface

A spacious running surface ensures comfort and safety during your workouts. Opt for a treadmill with a wide and long belt to accommodate different stride lengths and running styles.

5. Quiet Operation

Noise can be a concern, especially if you plan to use the treadmill at home. Look for models with quiet motors and smooth operation to minimize disruptions while you exercise.

Top Picks for the Best Home Treadmill with Incline

Energie Fitness Incline Treadmill: Known for its durable build and advanced features, the Energie Fitness Incline Treadmill offers a wide range of incline levels, preset workout programs, and a spacious running surface. Its quiet motor and user-friendly console make it an excellent choice for home use.

NordicTrack Commercial 1750: This treadmill is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts for its powerful motor, extensive incline range, and interactive touchscreen display. It also includes a variety of workout programs and a comfortable running deck.

ProForm Pro 2000: The ProForm Pro 2000 stands out with its robust construction, adjustable incline and decline settings, and compatibility with iFit workouts. It's designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging workout experience.

Conclusion

Investing in the best home treadmill with incline can revolutionize your fitness routine. The ability to adjust the incline allows you to customize your workouts, burn more calories, strengthen muscles, and improve cardiovascular health. With features like adjustable incline levels, sturdy construction, user-friendly consoles, and spacious running surfaces, these treadmills offer a convenient and effective way to stay fit at home.

Explore the collection of incline treadmills at Energie Fitness and find the perfect fitness companion to elevate your workouts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, an incline treadmill can help you achieve your fitness goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

[maston121]

Best Treadmill For Home Use UAE

Maston Fitness is one of the reputed brands of Treadmill in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. If You are looking to buy the Best Treadmill For Home use UAE at very affordable prices you are in the right place. we are one of the best importers of Top Treadmills In UAE. Get here to buy a Home Treadmill With Incline at the best price. You can visit our website if you want more details about different types of treadmills.

Address - Ras Al Khor Industrial Area - 01 Dubai UAE Contact No. 045 916 977 website : https://www.mastonfitness.com/category/treadmill

[acute-crashout-jeyuso]

Sacrifices (Book 2 of 3 BTR Series) a Jhea Fanfic.

Chapter 25: Maybe..

March 1st, 2025 2:11 PM

Jey worked out in his home office, sweat dripping down his back as his feet pounded rhythmically against the treadmill. He’d set the incline high and pushed himself hard, his focus on maintaining his stamina and strength despite his limited in-ring schedule.

Rhea was out with her parents, shopping in Stamford. It wasn’t often her parents visited, so Jey had encouraged her to spend the day with them. Meanwhile, their home buzzed with its usual chaos. Jesse and Jeremy made their rounds outside the property, ensuring everything stayed secure. Jeremiah watched as Bella and Barry, the playful dogs, were running around the yard, occasionally barking at nothing in particular. Storm, the aloof cat, was nowhere to be found—probably off scheming in some hidden corner of the house.

Jey’s focus was abruptly shattered when his phone began to ring on the desk next to the treadmill. He slowed the speed to a walk, breathing heavily as he grabbed a towel to wipe his face before glancing at the caller ID. Jonathan’s name flashed on the screen.

With a sigh, Jey accepted the call. “Hey, bro,” he greeted, his voice still slightly breathless.

“Hey, man,” Jonathan’s voice came through, casual but warm. “We were thinking about coming up to visit for a bit. Trinity said a weekend wasn’t enough time, so we figured we’d come up.”

“Yeah, that’s fine,” Jey said, stepping off the treadmill and stretching his arms. “I don’t mind. What day you thinking about flying in?”

Jonathan hesitated for a moment, as though gauging Jey’s reaction. “We were thinking Tuesday. Jaciyah’s birthday is Friday, so we figured we’d stay till Sunday.”

Jey froze, the words hitting him like a freight train. “Fuck!” he blurted out, his hand immediately running over his face in frustration.

On the other end of the line, Jonathan’s tone turned incredulous. “Wait, wait, hold up—you forgot your firstborn son’s 18th birthday?”

Jey groaned, pacing the room now, his frustration with himself growing. “Man, it’s been so hectic lately. Between Rhea’s pregnancy, Rhea still not opening up, her parents being in town, and everything else going on, it slipped my mind. Damn, Jon, I feel like shit.”

Jonathan laughed softly, though it carried a tone of disbelief. “I get it. But come on, this is Jaciyah’s 18th. We gotta do something good.”

“I know, I know,” Jey muttered, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I’ll make it up to him. I’ll plan something special.”

“You better,” Jonathan said, his voice lighter now. “We’ll help out when we get there. Trinity’s already thinking about what to buy for him.”

Jey let out a breath, grateful for his brother’s understanding. “Appreciate it, man. I’ll figure out how to make this the best birthday he’s ever had.”

Jonathan chuckled. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Definitely.” Jey said, cracking a small smile. “I’ll see you Tuesday.”

After hanging up, Jey leaned against the desk, staring at the blank wall in front of him. Guilt gnawed at him. Jaciyah was his firstborn, his pride and joy, and forgetting his birthday—even amidst all the chaos—was a blow to his own sense of responsibility.

Jey began to pace around his office, phone in hand, as he called his son Jaciyah. The line rang a few times before Jaciyah finally picked up. Jey paused his pacing briefly..

“Hey, Dad,” Jaciyah greeted, his voice casual but warm.

“Hey, son,” Jey replied, his tone light. “How’s everything over at your mom’s?”

Jaciyah chuckled. “It’s going good. Mom made brownies the other day, and man, I had a dang sugar attack. I was bouncing off the walls.”

Jey laughed, the image of his son hyped up on sugar making him smile. “I bet you were. Listen…” Jey hesitated, trying to find the best way to steer the conversation. “So, I hear someone’s got a birthday coming up soon.”

There was a pause before Jaciyah cut straight to the point, his voice brightening with excitement. “I want Rhea to make a triple-layer yellow cake with chocolate icing, I want a BBQ, and I want you to meet Daya.”

Jey blinked. “Hold up—who’s Daya?”

Another pause hung in the air before Jaciyah’s sheepish voice returned. “The girl you caught me with.”

Jey leaned back in his chair, raising an eyebrow. “Ah, so that’s her name. Alright, alright.” He chuckled softly, but his tone shifted to something more serious. “You sure about introducing her to the family? That’s a big step.”

“Yeah, Dad, I’m sure,” Jaciyah said confidently. “She’s important to me, and I want her to meet everyone.”

Jey nodded, respecting his son’s decision. “Okay, I hear you. So, no big party? Just a BBQ and cake?”

“Yeah,” Jaciyah replied. “Just something small with the family. Nothing too crazy.”

Jey smiled, a wave of relief washing over him. A smaller gathering would make things easier to manage, and he liked the idea of keeping it intimate. “Alright, son. I’ll make it happen. It’s gonna be a birthday to remember.”

“Thanks, Dad,” Jaciyah said warmly. “Oh, and tell Rhea I’m counting on that cake.”

Jey chuckled. “I’ll let her know. Love you, kid.”

“Love you too, Dad.”

Hanging up, Jey leaned back in his chair, already making mental notes of what needed to be done. He’d need to talk to Rhea about the cake and reach out to Trinity and Jonathan about the BBQ. And then, of course, there was Daya. Meeting his son’s girlfriend for the first time felt like a milestone of its own.

Jey couldn’t help but smile to himself. This birthday might’ve caught him off guard, but he was determined to make it a special one.

—

Rhea entered her and Jey’s house, bags of baby clothes in tow, her heart light with the excitement of the day’s shopping. The air felt comfortable and familiar, but there was a slight tension in her chest as she walked toward the living room, where Jey was waiting for her. He rose from his seat and kissed her cheek as she handed him the bags. Jey smiled as he saw all of the contents and set the bags gently on the coffee table.

“How was the trip to the mall?” Jey asked, a soft smile on his face.

Before Rhea could answer, her mother interjected, holding up a small onesie with a white and grey dinosaur design. “Oh Joshua, I brought the perfect onesie for my grandbaby.” Rhea’s mom was beaming, her eyes filled with love as she held up the gift, a pair of white booties and a matching beanie in her other hand.

Jey took the items from her mother and examined them with a smile. “It’s cute,” he agreed, his tone affectionate. He put the items into the bag and sat down on his spot on the couch.

Rhea, feeling the weight of the day catching up with her, collapsed onto the couch next to Jey. Her body ached from shopping and the long day, but seeing her parents’ happiness made it worth it. Her mother smiled at them both before excusing herself and Rhea’s dad, taking them to the guest room for some rest. The house settled into a peaceful quiet, just the two of them now.

Jey’s gaze was lingering on her with a mixture of affection and concern. “I forgot Jaciyah’s birthday,” he said, his voice tinged with guilt.

Rhea looked at him, a small smile tugging at her lips despite the underlying frustration. “I know you did, but I didn’t,” she replied softly.

Jey looked at her, confusion flickering across his face. “How?”

“I remember birthdays better than you,” Rhea teased, but the humor didn’t quite reach her eyes. Her tone held a hint of frustration, an emotion she had been carrying for days now.

Jey ran a hand through his hair, sighing. “What would I do without you?” he asked, his voice sincere, though a little playful.

Rhea’s smile faded as she leaned back against the couch. She exhaled deeply, her gaze distant for a moment before she spoke, her voice quiet but steady. “I don’t know… maybe think about that before you say something stupid like what you said to me in Titusville.”

Jey’s expression softened, his eyes searching hers. “Babe, I love you, but you’re still not over it?” His voice held a trace of frustration, but more than that, there was concern. He didn’t understand why this one thing was still lingering in her mind.

Rhea looked at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Joshua, what you said really hurt me,” she said, her voice steady but thick with emotion. “If you can’t see why I’m not letting this go…” She trailed off, feeling the weight of her words.

There was a long, heavy pause. Jey opened his mouth to say something, but Rhea cut him off, shaking her head. “Forget it,” she muttered under her breath.

Without waiting for his response, she stood up from the couch, her movements brisk as she grabbed the bags and turned away from him, heading toward the stairs.

Jey watched her, his heart sinking as he processed her words. He had hurt her, and despite his love for her, he couldn’t understand the depth of the pain she felt. He heard her footsteps fade as she ascended the stairs, leaving him alone in the quiet of their home.

Rhea, on the other hand, made her way to the bedroom, her thoughts racing. She didn’t want to let the hurt fester between them, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that what Jey had said in Titusville had exposed something deeper. Something he didn’t fully understand about her—about their relationship.

She laid the baby clothes on the bed and sat down beside them, her mind still on the conversation. She needed time. Time to process, to breathe, and to find a way to heal from the hurt.

For a moment, all she could think about was the weight of everything—the baby, her future with Jey, and the small things that seemed to pile up without resolution. Rhea sighed heavily, trying to find a way to center herself.

Meanwhile, Damian descended the stairs, his casual demeanor slightly dampened by the weight of the conversation he knew was coming. He took one look at Jey and, with a shrug, said, “What’s up?”

Jey sighed, his frustration clear. “Rhea again.”

Damian couldn’t help but laugh, more out of disbelief than amusement, as he grabbed a Sprite from the fridge. He sat down on the loveseat across from Jey and took a sip. “You really pushed her with that shit you said,” Damian remarked, his tone more serious now. “And you know what? I don’t blame her.”

Jey ran a hand through his hair. “I fucked up,” he admitted, his voice tinged with exhaustion. “I know that. I’ve admitted that. But why can’t she just forgive me and love me?”

Damian set his drink down, the weight of his words catching Jey’s full attention. “You do realize this is like the fourth time you kinda fucked up, right?” he said, his voice even but firm.

Jey shot him a confused glance. “What the hell do you mean?”

Damian leaned forward, his gaze sharp. “Well, first there was Portland, where you pushed her. Don’t even try to deny that one. Then there was keeping Jeyce from her after Takecia threatened you. She almost killed herself, Jey. She nearly ended it all because she thought she’d never have a chance to be your wife or be a mother to Jeyce. That’s not just a fuck-up. That’s something you need to really own. Thirdly, there was that argument back in January, when you called her out… if I remember correctly she needed to learn how to stop running away from shit.” Damian paused, his eyes narrowing. “Fourthly… Titusville.”

Jey looked down, guilt washing over him as each instance rolled off Damian’s tongue. But Damian wasn’t done. “And that’s not even mentioning the shit you did when you two weren’t together,” he added. “Like asking her to leave Matt while you stayed with Takecia. That shit? Took the cake. It was messed up.”

Jey winced, his chest tightening as the full weight of his mistakes hit him. “Okay,” he said quietly, trying to process everything.

Damian sat back, his tone softening. “Man, I get it. You love her. I can see it, but the way you’ve been treating her—it’s been a lot. And she’s been through enough shit already. She doesn’t deserve to keep dealing with your mistakes. You have to show her, not just tell her, that you’ve changed. That you’re not going to keep repeating the same shit over and over.”

Jey didn’t respond immediately. The silence between them was heavy, filled with the weight of everything Damian had just said. He wanted to argue, wanted to justify his actions, but he knew Damian was right. Every word cut deep, and he couldn’t pretend that things were as simple as just saying “sorry” and hoping things would go back to normal.

Finally, Jey spoke, his voice hoarse. “I just want her to forgive me, man. I don’t know how much more I can do.”

Damian sighed, his expression a mixture of frustration and sympathy. “You can’t just expect her to forgive you because you say sorry. You have to prove it. You’ve hurt her in so many ways, and she’s been loyal to you through it all. But now, she’s at a point where she’s probably wondering if you’re ever going to change. If you’re going to keep breaking her heart.”

Jey slumped further into the couch, the weight of it all bearing down on him. “I don’t know what to do anymore. I love her, but… I don’t want to lose her.”

Damian gave him a stern look. “Then stop making excuses. Stop taking her for granted. You’ve got to show her that she’s your priority. And more importantly, you’ve got to show her that you’ve learned from all this.”

Jey nodded slowly, taking in the advice. He knew deep down that Damian was right. He had taken Rhea for granted more times than he could count, and now it was time to prove that he was capable of doing better. If he didn’t, he feared he might lose her for good.

“I’ll do better,” Jey muttered, more to himself than to Damian. “I just need a chance to show her.”

Damian stood up, stretching out his arms. “Well, it starts with not making the same mistakes again. She deserves better than that, and if you really love her, you’ll show her that.”

—

Later on in the day, Jey gently tended to the roses in the greenhouse, carefully trimming away the dead petals, when he heard the familiar creak of the door opening behind him. He turned around to see Rhea’s father stepping inside, a look of quiet admiration on his face as he gazed at the barely-blooming sunflowers.

“I hear from my daughter that you have a green thumb,” Rhea’s father said, a slight smile on his lips as he took in the rows of plants.

Jey chuckled softly, wiping his hands on his jeans before straightening up. “Yeah, my mother was the gardener. Had me and my twin helping her every weekend morning growing up. It’s a bit of an inherited skill, I guess.”

Rhea’s father nodded, a look of understanding crossing his face. “Where’s your father in all of this? Was he around to help?”

Jey’s expression shifted as he thought back to his childhood. “My father was having a wrestling career,” he said, his voice quieter now. “I only saw him about two months out of the year. So it was mostly my mom, us kids, and the garden.”

Rhea’s father frowned sympathetically. “I can imagine how that must have been tormenting.”

Jey shrugged slightly, trying to push the old memories aside. “I managed,” he said simply.

The two stood there for a moment, the peaceful hum of the greenhouse filling the air as Rhea’s father moved to admire more of the plants. After a beat, he looked at Jey again, his tone a little more somber. “I believe you are the one for my daughter.”

Jey froze, a curious but cautious look in his eyes. “What do you mean?” he asked, his voice tinged with confusion.

Rhea’s father glanced over at him, his eyes softening. “A few years ago, Rhea took care of her mom by paying for her entire cancer treatment,” he said quietly. “That woman was on her last leg, and Rhea… she did everything she could. Every month, without fail, she sent money for everything. I couldn’t afford it on my own because my retirement wasn’t enough to cover the medical bills. But Rhea, she kept us afloat. She did all of that without ever asking for anything in return.”

Jey’s expression turned somber, his gaze shifting to the ground for a moment as the weight of the conversation sank in. He hadn’t known. He hadn’t realized how much Rhea had been shouldering on her own, all the while dealing with everything in her life.

“I didn’t know Mrs. Bennett had cancer,” Jey said quietly, his voice full of genuine surprise and sorrow.

Rhea’s father looked at him, his eyes distant for a moment as he remembered the hardship. “Breast cancer. Almost took the love of my life away,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

Rhea’s father sighed, taking a step back to admire the plants again, as though the memories were easier to face this way. “My memory does serve me right.. yup.. for about four years, every month, Rhea would send money. We couldn’t have made it without her. She worked harder than anyone I’ve ever known, and she never let us feel like a burden. Even when it was hard for her, she never let it show.”

Jey stood quietly for a moment, processing the gravity of what he was hearing. Rhea’s strength, her loyalty, the burden she carried all on her own for so long—it made everything that much more profound.

“She’s in remission now?” Jey asked softly, almost afraid of the answer but needing to hear it.

Rhea’s father smiled, though it was a bittersweet smile. “As of April 2022. Thank God,” he said, his voice heavy with relief.

Jey let out a soft breath, the weight of it all sinking in. “Thank God,” he repeated, as if to himself. He could hardly imagine the pain Rhea had gone through, and now it made so much more sense why she was the way she was, so fiercely independent, always carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders.

“She’s a hell of a woman,” Jey said quietly, his voice filled with admiration.

Rhea’s father looked at him, nodding slowly. “That’s why I trust you with her,” he said, his voice firm but kind. “You love her. And I can see it, Jey. But you have to understand, there’s a lot of hurt she’s carried. She’ll never show it, but it’s there.”

Jey met his gaze, understanding the silent warning. “I know,” he said softly, his voice determined. “I won’t let her down again.”

Rhea’s father studied him for a moment longer before giving a slow nod. “Good. She deserves everything, Jey. Don’t forget that.”

Jey nodded back, his heart heavy with both the responsibility and the love he felt for Rhea. This was his chance, not just to prove himself to her, but to truly understand what she had been through—and do whatever it took to make things right.

Jey stood there, the weight of the conversation pressing deeper into him. Despite hearing the story of Rhea’s strength, something still gnawed at him—something he couldn’t quite shake.

“Did Rhea ever speak of me when she was with Matthew?” Jey asked quietly, his voice filled with curiosity and a hint of lingering doubt.

Rhea’s father paused for a moment, his gaze distant as he seemed to search through his memories. Then, with a slow nod, he responded, his tone thoughtful.

“She did,” Rhea’s father said, his voice laced with a heaviness Jey hadn’t expected. “I didn’t know this at the time, but at their wedding, my daughter asked us if she chose the wrong person.”

Jey’s breath caught, his heart tightening as he processed the words. He could almost hear Rhea’s voice asking those questions, torn and uncertain, just like the woman he knew.

Rhea’s father let out a long sigh, his expression softening. “I didn’t have it in my heart to tell her yes,” he continued. “So, I just told her that whatever she decided, we would be beside her.”

Jey swallowed hard, feeling a knot form in his chest.

Rhea’s father walked over to one of the sunflowers in the greenhouse, absentmindedly brushing his hand over the petals as he spoke again, his voice low and reflective.

“On her 27th birthday, I tried to talk to her about Matt’s behavior. I tried to tell her she deserved better, but she didn’t listen. She was stubborn, as always,” he said, a slight chuckle escaping his lips despite the seriousness of the conversation. “I love my daughter, I do, but sometimes she has to make a mistake in order to learn. And when she falls, I’ll always be here to help her get up, to help her learn from it.”

Jey absorbed the words carefully, understanding the deep care and frustration in Rhea’s father’s voice. It was a painful reality—that Rhea had to go through that period of uncertainty and heartache on her own, trying to find answers, trying to make it work with someone who wasn’t right for her.

Jey’s heart began to sink further. He had always believed in Rhea’s strength, but hearing how her family had witnessed her struggle, her father’s silent support, it hit him harder than he had expected.

“You did the right thing,” Jey said quietly, his voice full of sincerity. “Sometimes we have to let them make their own mistakes.”

Rhea’s father turned to face him, his gaze hardening slightly but filled with understanding. “I believe that, but it doesn’t make it any easier. I could see it in her eyes when she married him. She wasn’t fully sure. She was still running from the choices she had made, even though she was trying to convince herself she wasn’t.”

Jey nodded, the truth sinking in deeper. The guilt of not being there for Rhea when she needed him was still a heavy burden, but he knew now more than ever that he couldn’t dwell on the past.

“I’ll make sure she never has to feel that way again,” Jey promised, his voice firm.

Rhea’s father studied him for a moment, then gave a slow nod of approval. “I hope you do, Jey. But remember, it’s not just about the promises you make now. It’s about showing her every day that she can trust you, that she can count on you when it matters most.”

Jey’s chest tightened with resolve. “I understand.”

Rhea’s father gave him a nod of approval, then returned his attention to the flowers in front of him. “Good. I can see she’s in good hands. Just don’t break her heart, Jey. I’ve seen her hurt enough.”

Jey stood still for a moment, reflecting on the weight of his words. He knew what he had to do now, not just to make things right with Rhea, but to prove to her family, especially her father, that he was the one she deserved.

—

Later on in the night, Jey was searching for a good birthday gift for Jaciyah when he heard laughter. He put his iPad down and got up, heading down the hallway. He spotted a room door ajar and quietly peered inside. He could hear Damian and Rhea talking, and although he didn’t want to eavesdrop, the soft sound of Rhea’s voice made him stop in his tracks.

“That little thunderstorm you have brewing in your stomach is going to be in style,” Damian said, his voice playful.

Rhea’s laughter echoed through the hallway, and Jey smiled to himself. “You would get my baby a Judas Priest onesie,” she responded, amusement in her tone.

Damian chuckled. “Have you thought at all about who would be the godparents?”

Rhea sighed. “I wanted you and Kayden, but more than likely Jey is going to convince me for Jon and Trinity.”

Damian’s voice grew softer, and Jey’s curiosity deepened. “You have a say in this, you know. It’s not just Jey’s kid, it’s your baby too.”

Rhea’s response was filled with an unspoken sadness, and Jey felt his chest tighten. “I know, but I might as well just do what Jey says. Don’t want to get him angry.”

Damian’s tone became more serious, concerned. “Rhea… mamas’, you have to start caring about yourself.”

Jey stood frozen in place, listening intently, unable to tear himself away. He didn’t know what to say, didn’t know what to do with the thoughts racing through his mind.

Rhea sighed deeply before replying, her voice quieter now. “I know, I know… but it’s not just about me. It’s about Jey and his kids.”

Damian’s response was firm, a steady reassurance in his voice. “They are your kids too, Rhea.”

Jey felt the weight of those words. His kids. He hadn’t realized that Rhea might still feel like an outsider, even now. The thought of her doubting herself hit him harder than he expected.

Rhea’s voice broke through the silence, her vulnerability more apparent now. “I just don’t feel enough anymore. I honestly think my hormones are getting to me… everything makes me feel sad.”

Damian’s voice softened, a comforting presence. “Don’t blame your doubts on your hormones, Rhea. You’re allowed to feel what you’re feeling. But you have to start listening to yourself too. You’ve been so focused on everyone else—maybe it’s time you focused on you for once.”

Jey’s heart ached hearing that. He could feel his own guilt gnawing at him. He truly hadn’t realized how much Rhea was carrying on her own.

Just as he was about to step into the room, he stopped and Damian’s voice grew more distant as Rhea responded.

“I don’t know, Damian. I just… I can’t seem to get it right. It’s like everything is slipping away from me, and I’m just trying to hold on.”

Jey closed his eyes for a moment, pain and concern flooding him. Maybe today was the wake-up call he needed. Maybe he’d been so focused on his own guilt, on his own issues, that he hadn’t truly seen what Rhea was going through. He knew he had to make things right, and that started with understanding her—truly understanding her.

“Thank you for the gift, Damian, honestly,” Rhea said, her voice still carrying the warmth of their earlier conversation.

Jey quickly ducked back into the bedroom, hearing Rhea’s footsteps approach. He scrambled back onto the bed, grabbing his iPad, trying to act casual. He could hear her moving down the hallway, but didn’t know how much time he had before she’d come back.

A few moments later, the door creaked open, and Rhea stepped inside, holding the onesie in her hands. She walked to the dresser and gently laid it down without saying a word. Jey could see her silhouette in the soft light from the hallway, her movements deliberate but quiet.

She didn’t glance his way as she undressed, changing into her pajamas with the practiced ease of someone who had done it a thousand times. Jey watched, his heart aching as he realized just how distant she seemed in that moment. She climbed into bed on her side and immediately reached to turn off the bedside lamp, plunging the room into darkness. The space between them felt suffocating.

Jey set his iPad down, staring at the back of her head as he lay beside her. He reached out tentatively, his hand moving toward her shoulder, hoping to pull her close. But just as his fingers brushed against her, Rhea’s voice cut through the stillness.

“Not tonight.”

Jey froze, his hand hovering in the air. His throat tightened, but he swallowed, trying to fight back the hurt. “I need my button nose back…” he murmured, trying to make light of the situation, hoping she’d soften.

But Rhea didn’t respond with the usual warmth. Instead, she swatted his hand away, her voice cold. “Jey, I’m not in the mood right now at all. Just don’t touch me.”

Jey felt a sharp pang in his chest, the weight of her words settling heavy in his stomach. “Rhea, please,” he pleaded softly, his voice thick with emotion. “I’m trying here. I just… I miss you.”

Rhea didn’t move, her body still facing away from him, the space between them growing. She exhaled deeply, her voice barely above a whisper but laced with something raw. “I don’t have the strength right now, Jey. Just please… leave me alone.”

Jey’s chest tightened, but he couldn’t let it end like this. He needed to hold her, needed her to know how much he loved her, even if she couldn’t feel it right now. He reached out once more, but the distance between them felt so insurmountable. “I love you, Rhea,” he whispered, his voice thick with vulnerability. “I love you so much.”

Rhea’s voice came out sharp, a small quiver of emotion beneath the anger. “I love you too, Jey, but don’t fucking touch me right now.”

Jey pulled his hand back slowly, his heart sinking. He wanted to respect her space, to give her what she needed, but the ache inside of him was unbearable. With a deep sigh, he turned over onto his side, his back to her, and let the silence fill the room.

Both of them were there—physically, at least—but emotionally, they felt a world apart.

—

The next day, Rhea said her final goodbyes to her parents at the airport, hugging them both tightly. “I’ll send pictures of the bump soon,” she promised, her voice thick with emotion. Her mom kissed her forehead, telling her how proud they were, while her dad gave her a final piece of advice to take care of herself.

After parting with her parents, Rhea hugged Damian, wishing him well on his return to RAW. “Take care of yourself, D. I’m proud of you.” Damian smiled, patting her shoulder. “I’ll see you soon, and I’ll be keeping an eye on that baby bump.”

With the goodbyes said, Rhea made her way to the entrance of the airport, ready to head home. She walked out into the crisp air, spotting Jeremiah pulling in with her plum-colored Tahoe. She got into the passenger seat, offering him a tired but grateful smile. “Let’s go to Trader Joe’s,” she said, her mind already thinking of what she needed. Jeremiah nodded and quickly set the address into the GPS, pulling away from the curb.

Meanwhile, back at home, Jeyce and Jaciyah were glued to the PS5, completely absorbed in their game. Jey, on the other hand, was outside, making his way through the greenhouse, carefully tending to the roses. He wasn’t sure why, but he found comfort in the act of nurturing something. Maybe it was because it was something he could control in a time where everything else felt so uncertain.

As he focused on the roses, he heard small footsteps approaching. Turning around, he saw Barry, Rhea’s dog, trotting over to him with his tail wagging. Jey bent down, offering the dog a smile and a pat on the head. “I hope your mom forgives me soon,” he murmured to the dog, his heart heavy with the weight of his unresolved tension with Rhea. Barry let out a soft bark, as if in agreement, and Jey couldn’t help but smile.

Shaking his head, he returned to trimming the roses, when his phone vibrated in his pocket. Pulling it out, he saw a text message from Jon. It read: “Hey, we’ll be flying in on Tuesday. Our plane lands at 9 pm.”

Jey quickly typed back, offering his help: “I’ll pick you guys up at the airport. See you then.” After sending the message, he sighed, wishing he could find a way to make things right with Rhea. But for now, he focused on getting ready for Jon and Trinity’s arrival.

He glanced back at the roses, hoping that one day things would bloom again between him and Rhea.

—

Flashback: August 9, 2018 - 11:57 PM

The air in the hallway was thick with tension as Morris opened the door to the dimly lit room. Inside, the fiery redhead, Valerie, was lounging on a bed, her legs crossed and her attention focused on her phone. She didn’t look up immediately but continued texting as if the world around her didn’t exist.

Morris stepped into the room, his presence commanding attention, and the moment Valerie glanced up, her sharp green eyes locked onto his. “Why do you have so much regard for Black Mamba?” she asked, her voice laced with a mixture of curiosity and something else, something dangerous.

Morris chuckled, a low, dangerous sound, and leaned against the doorframe, his eyes narrowing as he regarded her. “When did you think it was okay to start asking questions?” His tone was casual, but the edge in his voice was unmistakable.

Valerie shrugged nonchalantly, though her eyes flickered with the same intensity she had in her earlier question. “I’m just saying… my sister knows her, and she isn’t all that great in the—”

Before she could finish, Morris moved with lightning speed. He grabbed a fistful of her hair and yanked her head back, pulling her face dangerously close to his. His breath was hot on her skin, and his grip tightened painfully.

“No one speaks about Mamba,” he said through gritted teeth, his voice low and threatening, the weight of his words hanging in the air like an iron chain. “Am I clear?”

Valerie froze for a moment, her eyes wide with the realization of just how serious he was. She swallowed hard, her defiance fading as fear crept into her chest. “Yes, sir,” she whispered, her voice strained but obedient.

Morris held her gaze for a beat longer, then slowly released her hair, stepping back as if nothing had happened. Valerie, still shaken but attempting to maintain her composure, quickly looked away, her phone now forgotten in her hands.

Morris gave a nod, his smirk returning as if nothing had transpired. “Good,” he said, turning to leave the room. “Remember, Valerie… some things are better left unsaid.”

As the door clicked shut behind him, the room was left in silence, the air heavy with unspoken tension.