I got to watch a few reps before he seemed to sense me, his intense eyes locking on mine. Something filled his that I didn’t understand and he seemed to move a bit faster.
Probably to hurry and finish so he could get away from me. I was staring like a… Something not suitable.
I turned away to head to another weight rack and realized he was still watching me. I could see him in the mirrors. I ignored it and got everything set to bench press, but looked over when I heard the clink of weights.
He’d finished and his gaze was intense as he flicked off his lifting belt. Something about that was way too seductive and I swallowed a shiver, lost in my head.
Then I remembered why I was there, needing to get energy out, and it was like a bucket of cold water was dumped on my head.
I was just about to lay down when Onyx was suddenly there. I flinched and took a step back.
He ran his tongue over his teeth and shot a quick glance at Benson. “I didn’t think you saw me when you came in, but I wasn’t quiet. Sorry if I startled you, My Queen.”
“I’m fine. Good morning,” I mumbled.
“You’re not fine,” he whispered as he leaned in. “What’s wrong?” He moved in closer when I didn’t say anything. “I know you’re not happy with me and I’ll fix that. I will, but what is going on with you, baby girl? Please tell me.”
“I’m fine,” I said again. “Excuse me.”
He didn’t move though. “Can I spot you? Let me help when you’re distracted.” He grabbed my wrist when I frowned. “I didn’t mean by watching him lift impressive amounts of weights. We all watch that. I meant whatever else is going on with you.”
“Okay, thanks.” It was smart to have a spot since I was out of practice.
“What are you normally at?” he asked as I lay down and gripped the bar.
I opened my mouth but then closed it and my eyes as I let out a sigh. “I have no idea. I worked with the trainer that my parents paid at school and…”
“Everything became not as important as what happened. Okay, well, one of my degrees is in health and wellness, so I could contact them and take over.”
My eyes popped open and I stared up at him. “I’m not sure that’s smart.”
“I think it’s a really good idea, but whatever makes you comfortable. Could I at least call and get your records for you? I can transition you to someone here that we can find.”
I felt warm inside. “That would be amazing, thanks.”
“Done. So let’s go easy today since you also haven’t trained in over a month.”
“Yeah, I’ve been lazy,” I muttered, feeling embarrassed.
“You are anything but lazy, Sagan,” he chuckled. “I feel like I’m drowning for you most days and it’s not all happening to me.”
“Thanks, Onyx.” I blinked when he started chuffing.
Ohhhh, someone like it when I said his name. He liked it big-time.
I ignored it and focused on what I was doing. Onyx was impressed with how much I handled and for how long. I realized Benson was standing close when I set the bar back down and looked over at him.
He shot Onyx a glance but focused back on me. “I’m getting messages that the person you asked to be removed was and is settled at a hotel near the castle. What happened?”
“Nothing you need to concern yourself with, but thank you for letting me know,” I replied as I stood and moved around. I stretched and ignored the two sets of eyes on me and focused on my workout.
“I need to know if he hurt you or—” Benson tried again.
“He’d be a pile of ash and the sprinklers would have gone off if he’d physically hurt me and you know it,” I interrupted, annoyance in my tone. “You cannot protect me from the selfishness and stupidity of men.” I met his gaze. “You are one of them and do the same after all.”
Onyx snickered but immediately apologized. “I’m a moron too. I know. I just think it’s sexy when you stand up for yourselflike that.” He glanced between us. “I’ll leave you two to talk.” His stare was hard on Benson’s. “For a moment.”
I didn’t really think that necessary, but I saw it as him trying not to push himself on me and make me uncomfortable, which I appreciated.
