“All done.” I slide the clipboard back across the counter. “What do I do now?”

Her eyelids flutter, and her mouth falls open, but she quickly composes herself. “Um, you can work here behind the desk with me. It’s not difficult. You sign people in, sign them out, and sometimes you process payments. I can show you how to do that.”

Because I want to spend another minute with her. “I think the guys mentioned something about cleaning the equipment? I can do that. Where do I find the supplies?”

Her face falls a little, and I’m glad. It’s nothing compared to the way she’s made me feel, but it’s a start. She points at a small closet across from the desk, where paper towels and bottles of cleaner sit. “I think I can figure this out. Thanks.” And with that, I head deeper into the gym, where dozens of people sweat while music thumps from speakers set up in the corners of the room.

At least I don’t have to be close to Colt or Nix while I’m doing this. They’re both working out with pretty complicated-looking equipment, loading extra weight before sitting on the benches and pushing themselves through their routines.

It’s not bad enough I have to be here with my two biggest enemies, but the third on the list is here as well? The worst part is, if she hadn’t gone and messed everything up, I could really use her friendship about now. I have no one to confide in, and Piper would have been the first person I went to if she hadn’t chosen to turn against me. My heart is sore as I walk through the gym, hustling over to machines once people leave them so I can spray the handles and seats before somebody else uses them. Not exactly the most thrilling job, but it’s easy enough. And at least it means I don’t have to be alone with these two idiots—there are plenty of people around all the time, all through the first ninety minutes of work.

“Hey. You’re new around here.”

I didn’t notice a man, who looks to be in his mid-thirties, approaching me. He’s handsome enough, I guess, though I’ve had my fill of handsome men. Colt and Nix are gorgeous, but they’re evil. Looks don’t mean much when you don’t have a soul.

So I’m understandably wary as I offer a brief smile. “I just started working here today.”

“Oh? Then I guess I’ll have more of a reason to show up, won’t I?” From the looks of him, he’s here a lot, and I can’t pretend not to appreciate his muscular build and broad, brilliant smile.

His dark eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles again, running a hand through his short, sandy hair. And what would your name be?”