Page 21 of The TV Show Rival

“Maybe you can challenge Jamie to a fitness fusion class—half yoga, half boot camp. Winner gets bragging rights for a month!”

The idea sparked a fire in Jess, both hilarious and oddly compelling. “You know what, that might just be the perfect way to end this whole thing.”

They both laughed.

“But seriously though, why don’t you just stay out of it? Yoga, boot camp, who cares? People can choose what works for them.”

Jess smirked. “Yeah, you’re probably right. Besides, I’d rather be catching up with my favorite travel buddy than arguing with some internet stranger about downward-facing dogs.”

Suddenly, Isa reached into their backpack and pulled out a small, brightly colored package.

“I brought you a little something from Mexico.”

Jess took the package. Isa always knew how to make her feel special. “You shouldn’t have,” she said, carefully unwrapping the paper. Inside sat a beautiful silver necklace with a tiny cactus pendant.

“For the toughest trainer this side of the equator. Besides, it reminded me of you—strong, resilient, and thrives in the heat.” Isa said with a wink.

Tears welled up in Jess’ eyes. “Isa, you’re the best,” she managed to choke out, pulling them into a tight hug.

“De nada. You don’t need to thank me.”

Finally, Jess pulled back, wiping her eyes. “So, how are things with your folks? Did they come around to the whole, you know, not-a-girl-not-a-boy thing?”

Isa’s smile faltered for a brief moment. “They’re trying. There’s still a lot of… confusion, on their part. But hey, at least they’re not disowning me anymore. Besides, I’m not holding my breath for a Pride Parade invitation anytime soon, but baby steps, I guess.”

Jess squeezed their hand sympathetically. “That’s good. Change can be hard, especially for older generations.

“How about your mom? And Riley?”

“Mom’s good. She actually loved the scarf you sent for her birthday. Said it was perfect for those chilly evenings. And Riley loves those video games.”

They chatted for a while longer, catching up on everything from Isa’s adventures in Mexico to the latest gossip with their old friends. Finally, Isa yawned widely.

“Whoa, traveling home has caught up to me,” they said, stretching their legs. “Maybe I should hit the hay.”

“Yeah, probably,” Jess agreed, glancing at the clock. It was later than she realized.

She walked Isa to the spare bedroom, making sure they had fresh towels and everything they needed.

“Hey,” Jess said as Isa was about to close the door.

“Yeah?” Isa asked, leaning against the doorframe.

“How about tomorrow, we hit the gym together? You can be the judge of who has the better workout, yoga or boot camp.”

Isa’s eyes lit up with a familiar challenge. “You’re on,” they said with a grin.

Just as Jess stepped out of the room, her phone chimed, revealing an email. Her eyes widened in surprise.

“Whoa!”

“What is it?” Isa came running.

With trembling fingers, Jess showed them the email.

The subject line screamed at her in bold letters:

Subject: Ultimate Body Battle: Interview Invitation

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