Page 4 of Shattered Rhythm

“Ah yes, of course it is. Sorry, there aren’t any people taking advantage of it, though. The studio is either used for classes or not at all, but if there’s no class, you can dance in the studio. You just have to work your schedule around the courses.”

“That sounds great. Are there many classes?” I ask.

“No, there are only one or two per day, sometimes more on a Saturday. They’re often in the morning or early afternoon,” she responds.

“Okay, that sounds good and would work with my schedule. Would it be possible to have a look at the studio and the class timetable before I decide on a membership?” I ask.

“Of course. I’m Chris by the way,” she tells me as she walks around the reception to meet me.

“Liv.” I smile at her.

“Follow me, I’ll show you around.”

She leads me through the fitness studio, pointing out the weight section and the boxing ring before finally bringing me to the dance studio.

“Here we have the latest state-of-the-art equipment and interior, which prioritizes the safety and comfort of our members. We have a high-quality sound system that can connect to your device via Bluetooth, climate control to regulate the heat and humidity, and customizable lighting.”

My eyes widen as I take in the spacious and modern studio. The dance floor is elevated, like a stage, with plenty of room for a large class, and surrounding the dance floor are fixed stools along a pathway. A class is currently in session, with the teacher facing away from us. He’s wearing baggy sweats and a hoodie, making it difficult to judge his appearance, but the moves he’s showing the class are impressive. This place definitely has potential.

Chris notices my excitement and grins. “I’m glad you like it. Let me show you the class timetable.”

She leads me to the schedule hanging on the door of the studio, and I quickly snap a picture of it with my phone. As I glance over the schedule, I realize that most of the classes are offered during times when I’m occupied with studying or lectures, making it perfect for me.

“I’m hooked,” I tell Chris.

“Great!” she happily responds. “Let’s get you signed up for a membership.” Together, we make our way back to the reception area.

* * *

Ryder

I’m currently sitting in Chase’s office, trying to avoid another lecture from Riv and Jaxon about taking my job at Tanner Fitness more seriously. I’m not into sports or working out, but I do come here at least three times a week to lift weights. I’m just vain like that. I don’t enjoy teaching others like River does, but he’s the reason why I can’t slack off too much with my workouts. I don’t want to be called the less attractive twin because I can’t keep up with Riv’s six-pack. I know I should do more to help Jaxon, but with so many employees, I’d just be a distraction anyway…or that’s what I tell myself.

While I’m sitting there, trying to occupy myself with thoughts of sheet music, I hear Chris’ voice coming from the front desk. I ignore her, assuming she can handle whatever it is on her own, until I hear someone asking about the dance studio. My curiosity gets the better of me, and I peek around the corner. Lo and behold, it’s the stunning girl from the café yesterday, talking about dance classes and a membership.

“Of course, I’m Chris by the way,” I hear Chris say.

“Liv,” she answers.

I need to tell River.

My heart racing with excitement, I wait until Chris shows her the way to the studio before practically running to find him. He’s helping an old lady use a weight machine, so I whisper yell to get his attention.

“River! It’s important,” I say.

He looks at me with a raised brow, asking, “What is?”

“She’s here, and she wants to get a membership,” I reply. It doesn’t surprise me that he doesn’t even need to ask who I’m talking about.

“Now? She’s here now?” he asks, clearly just as excited as I am. “Who’s getting her signed up?”

“Chris is showing her around right now,” I reply. “I don’t think Chase is done with the class yet, and I have no idea where Jaxon is, but I know her name. It’s Liv.”

“Liv,” he repeats as if trying it out. “Okay, but let’s just stay here and not let her see us until she’s signed up. I don’t want her to think we’re stalking her or some shit like that,” River suggests. I think that’s ridiculous, but I stay with him.

After all, why take any chances?

* * *

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