The next day, Lauren Findley mustered the courage to call Martin. The first call went unanswered, sinking her heart with overthinking. But the second call connected.
"Hello, beautiful Miss Lauren," Martin's magnetic voice purred through the speaker, so real and close it sent shivers through her. She stammered, "M-M-Martin, I-I just wanted to ask if you have any gym recommendations."
"Of course," he replied. "A friend of mine runs a chain of fitness centers—I've got some shares in it. Most L.A. fitness celebs are members. Great environment, cutting-edge equipment, some not even on the market yet, and top-notch trainers. It's a bit pricey, but you're my friend, so I'll get you a discount."
"Really? That's… amazing! Thank you!" Lauren gushed.
"No problem. Where's your place? I'll find the closest branch."
Lauren gave her family's ranch address, and Martin quickly provided a gym location.
"Go train there. I'll call the owner ahead of time—just mention my name."
"Oh, okay, thank you, Martin! You're so nice!"
"Haha, I'm humble, but you're right," he teased.
Lauren giggled, her nerves easing as they chatted until her mom called her for lunch. Reluctantly hanging up, she clutched the phone to her chest, heart soaring. Martin called me his friend! This is like a daydream. She silently thanked "Big John," the 280-pound pig who'd escaped yesterday. If not for you, I wouldn't have had this chance. Is this fate?
Yes, "Big John" was the fugitive hog, now her pet with a proper name.
The following weekend, Lauren rushed out, yelling, "Dad, I'm going to the gym! Won't be back for lunch—bye!"
Her father blinked, turning to his wife. "Did I hear that right? Lauren's going to the gym?"
"You heard correctly," his wife replied with a sly smile. "I think our baby's in love. She's been sneaking off to call someone lately."
"What? She's finally waking up! Honestly, I gave up on her academics—she's not cut out for it. My only hope is she finds a good match. So, she's hitting the gym for some boy?"
"I hope her first love isn't a jerk. If anyone hurts our Lauren, I'll beat them till their mom wouldn't recognize them, I swear!"
"Easy, dear. You'll scare off any boyfriend she has."
Martin's gym was, of course, the fitness chain he co-owned with Doris. At the front desk, Lauren mentioned his name. The receptionist's formal smile warmed instantly. After checking her ID for security, the receptionist beamed. "Miss Findley, your membership's already set up by Mr. Meyers—top-tier gold level, with a 70% discount on all services."
Mr. Meyers? Martin? He set this up for me? Lauren's heart fluttered. So thoughtful!
She couldn't wait to start training, picturing the moment she'd reveal her transformed self to Martin. But doubts crept in. Will I really be beautiful? Why's he so nice to me?
A flicker of suspicion stirred—could he have feelings for her?
She wasn't entirely wrong. Martin had his eye on her, aiming to add her to his "collection." A diamond like Lauren was rare, distinct from, say, Jack Nicholson's wrestler girlfriend, Ashley, who'd bulk up but keep balanced proportions, not the grotesque bodybuilder type. Martin was always generous with his prized "collectibles."
At the gym's second-floor training area, a professional trainer, Tina, greeted her, tipped off by the receptionist. "Miss Findley? I'm Tina, your personal trainer."
"My trainer? I didn't hire one," Lauren said, confused.
Tina smiled. "Mr. Meyers arranged it. My fees are covered."
Martin again? Lauren's heart swelled with sweetness. Is he pursuing me?
Her emotions churned. His actions screamed a man chasing a woman, but her confidence wavered. In the mirror, she saw a plump figure. Am I misreading this?
Two hours later, Martin appeared at the gym, greeting her warmly. Her doubts faded—he had to like her. Why else would a superstar like him care about chubby her? She pondered this while lifting weights, showering, and dressing.
As she left the gym to get her car, a black Rolls-Royce pulled up. The window rolled down, revealing Martin's handsome face. "Hey, Lauren, got time? Wanna grab lunch?"
Her cheeks flushed. "S-Sure."
"Great, hop in. I know a spot with killer beef curry."
"No worries, I'll drive you back later."