Page 5 of Strict Daddy

“Don’t even pretend I’m wrong,” Mia said, a playful gleam in her eye.

I bit my lip, hesitating. But I knew Mia wouldn't relent until I confessed. "Fine.” I rolled my eyes. “He’s called Byron," I admitted softly. "He's a trainer at that new gym downtown."

"A trainer, huh?" Mia smirked. "I bet he's ripped. So what's the deal? Did you sign up?"

"They had a free trial at the gym, but Byron’s program isn’t included." I felt my cheeks coloring again. "We just talked. Told me he thought I could benefit from his methods. But Mia, the things he said... He told me his training requires 'complete submission'. What does that even mean?"

"Sounds kinky." Mia raised a sculpted eyebrow suggestively. "You sure this is just about fitness?"

"Of course it is!" Even to my ears, my protest sounded weak. I awkwardly tried to explain. "I think he just meant pushing past my usual limits, you know?"

Mia clearly wasn't buying it. She leaned forward conspiratorially. "Okay, but the real question is, is this Byron guy hot or not?"

I groaned, covering my burning face. The image of his god-like physique flashed through my mind. "He's . . . conventionally attractive, yes. But it's not like that. He made it very clear it's strictly professional."

"Maybe you should make it unprofessional then," Mia winked. "Seriously Poppy, a little fling with a sexy trainer could be just what you need to get out of this funk you've been in. Live a little!"

“No-one like that would be interested in someone like me.”

“Are you kidding me? You’re gorgeous!” It felt good to have Mia stick up for me like this. She was a diamond.

I chewed my thumbnail uncertainly. Byron was tempting, no doubt. But allowing him to push me physically and mentally? Surrendering control? It felt dangerous. Complicated.

Mia rolled her eyes. "You're overthinking, as usual. What's the worst that could happen? Go for it, Poppy. Take a chance!"

I sighed, my mind and heart torn. Should I call Byron and take this leap into the unknown? Risk baring my body and soul to this mysterious man and his methods? Mia made it sound so easy. But nothing about Byron felt easy. He was a force, and I sensed surrendering to him could change everything . . . if I dared.

Later, at home, obviously,I was still thinking about Byron. I took a deep breath, turning over his business card in my hands. Mia's words echoed in my head.

What's the worst that could happen?

Take a chance. . . .

The dissatisfaction I'd been feeling lately gnawed at me—the monotony of scanning groceries, the loneliness of my tiny apartment, the persistent softness of my body despite half-hearted attempts at dieting. Maybe Byron and his unorthodox training were the jolt I needed to finally transform myself.

Pulse quickening, I pulled out my phone and dialed the number before I could second guess myself again. It rang once, twice. I held my breath.

“Hello?”

“Hello, you probably don’t remember me, but—”

"Poppy." His rich voice caressed my name, sending a shiver down my spine. "I've been expecting your call."

"You have?" I fought to keep my tone even, thrown by his presumption.

"Of course. I could see the curiosity in your eyes. You want more than the life you're living." His insight unnerved me.

"I . . . I was wondering if your offer still stands? To train with you?" The words tumbled out in a rush.

"Absolutely. The question is, are you ready to commit to your transformation? To push your limits and leave the old Poppy behind?"

I hesitated, chewing my lip. "Could I maybe just try one session? See how it goes before signing any contracts?"

A weighted pause. "I'll make an exception for you. Meet me at Celestial tomorrow at 6pm sharp. We'll see if you have what it takes."

"Thank you. I'll be there." Anticipation and nerves somersaulted in my stomach.

"I look forward to it, Poppy. Until tomorrow then."

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