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“Hey, you okay?” he asked quietly, so no one else could hear.

Riley snapped his gaze to Josh’s like he forgot he was sitting there, then leaped off the couch.

“Yeah, I need a refill. Anyone else need anything?” Riley said as he escaped to the kitchen.

Made sense. That kiss left Josh thirsty too. Not for a drink, but for more Riley.

That’s when the demon in his brain spoke, silencing his racing thoughts about Riley and reminding him of his true nature:you don’t deserve him.

Gym Rat Pack Group Chat

HUNTER:We miss you guys at the gym. Are you coming back yet?

COLE:Dude, it’s still our first day here. We’ve only missed one class.

HUNTER:Yeah, and it wasn’t the same without you!

GARRETT:Don’t mind him. He was sad because it was leg day and he loves showing off in front of everyone.

CARSON:You missed his personal record for deadlift.

JOSH:Congrats, man! That’s awesome! We’ll celebrate when we get back.

TOBIAS:Celebrations are strictly prohibited at my gym.

COLE:Sweet! Another rule to break!

JOSH:Hey, should we add Chase to the chat? He’s one of us now!

TOBIAS:No.

TOBIAS:I mean, not yet. He’s still in a probationary period.

COLE:Probationary periods, no celebrations… Man, when you let your hair down…

JOSH:Tobias’ hair is always down. It’s not long enough to be up.

HUNTER:Not like mine! I’ve perfected the man bun.

GARRETT:Hey, where’s Riley? Isn’t he with you guys, too?

COLE:Oh, he’s good. Just a little something came UP this afternoon so he’s probably distracted.

CARSON:Why did you capitalize up like that?

COLE:Yeah, Josh, why did I?

JOSH:I’m not sure. But Riley might be distracted because we kissed to win a game and it was super hot.

HUNTER:asd;flkasdhf

GARRETT:Finally

COLE:EPIC

CARSON:Congrats, guys!

JOSH:Hell yeah! I knew we could win!