My Instructor (2 page)

“
It went well but I was sore as all get out when I got home,” Tiffany said. “My eagerness to get into shape is beginning to wan, but something interesting did happen.”

Tiffany moved to put away the diamond she was working on. She fiddled around storing the gem and locking the safe.

“Well? Are you going to tell me?” Marisa asked excitedly.

Tiffany turned to face her and grinned.

“It’s not earth shattering. I just met someone—a man,” Tiffany said casually.

“
What! Who? What? How? Answer all the questions, girl,” Marisa exclaimed.

Tiffany laughed.

“Calm down, girl. It's not what you think,” Tiffany replied.

Tiffany proceeded to tell Marisa about meeting Aaron and what had ensued.

“So, you’re going to be training with him?” Marisa asked.

“
Yes. He offered and I accepted. Lord knows I can use his expertise,” Tiffany said.

“
And that’s all?” Marisa asked disappointedly.

“
Yes. What else is there?” Tiffany asked in bafflement.

“
So, this is just a training buddy thing. You’re not the least bit attracted to him?” Marisa asked.

“
No. There are no romantic sparks going off between us. Sorry to disappoint you,” Tiffany grinned.

“
Darn! I had selected your wedding colors,” Marisa grinned.

“
Girl, please! Come on. Let’s check out that Italian restaurant,” Tiffany said.

“
Okay,” Marisa replied as she put her shoe back on. “Let’s go.”

They left the jewelry store and chatted as they walked to the restaurant.

*****

Aaron had been working out for twenty minutes and there was still no sign of Tiffany. He’d been watching the door so much that he had lost his focus on his own workout.

“Is she not coming?” he wondered sadly.

He hadn’t taken her as a flake. The description just didn’t ring true where she was concerned. But there was denying the fact that she wasn’t there. She could be running late but there was always time to call and say she was delayed. Aaron tried to cast off the disappointment as he worked with the free weight, but the disillusionment remained with him like a heavy mantel on his shoulders. He glanced at the door again and saw her rushing in. He felt a sudden relief. Her not showing affected him more than he wanted to admit. He knew it was early on but he was invested in her progress and he wanted her to be as well. He was also invested in her personally—but that was another story. She waved at him and pointed to the locker room; indicating that she was going in to change. He waved back and smiled. When she joined him she was all apologetic.

“I’m so sorry I am late. I’m really not a late person but I was tied up at work and I couldn’t very well blow off my boss,” she smiled wanly.

“
It’s not a problem. I understand. How do you feel today?” he asked in concern.

Tiffany could see that he was sincerely interested and that warmed her heart.

“Not nearly as bad as I feared. I bathed in Epsom Salt and it really relieved the soreness in my muscles,” Tiffany explained.

Aaron had a visual of a naked Tiffany in the bath tub. He had to work hard not to allow his package to show the affects her words had on him. He cleared his throat.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better. Ready to start?” he asked.

“
Mm hmm. What will we do first?” she asked.

He grinned.

“You mean: what will you do first?” he teased. “I thought we could focus your attention on toning your arms with free weights.”

“
Okay. Just don’t give me a weight that’s too heavy,” she admonished.

“
I won’t. That would defeat the purpose anyway. You need a weight you can handle for repetition,” he explained.

He selected a three pound weight and gave it to her.

“How does that feel? Do you want a two pound weight instead?’ he asked.

Tiffany hefted the dumbbell in her hand.

“It feels good. Just enough weight,” she said.

He instructed her on holding the weight and swinging her forearm back and forth to work her triceps. They went through a series of different exercises to target the arm, from weight bench dips to the overhead press using the kettlebell. After fifteen reps with the kettlebell Tiffany set it on the floor and gripped her upper arms.

“They feel like they’re on fire,” she complained.

“
It will get better. The pain will fade as you exercise more,” he said.

“
That’s what you said yesterday,” she pouted.

“
And it will,” he grinned. “You know what they say: no pain—

“
Yeah. Yeah. But I haven’t seen the gains yet,” she huffed.

“
You will,” he responded gently. “Come on. Let’s work your legs.”

They worked for a little over an hour before he called it quits. Tiffany was relieved he wanted to stop. She had been tempted to call a halt to the torture, but didn’t want him to think she was a wimp. She sat on the bench in exhaustion and he sat beside her.

“You did very well,” he complimented.

“
You think so?” she asked weakly.

“
Absolutely. This was only your second time but you hung in there like a pro,” he praised.

“
Then why do I feel like total extinction is nipping at my heels?” she muttered.

He laughed.

“You’re just tired. Take another salted bath and you’ll be good as new,” he suggested.

“
I think I will follow your advice,” she smiled.

“
Hey, do you like dance revues?” he asked.

“
Of course. I love the art of dance,” she replied.

“
My young cousin is performing in his high school dance revue. Would you like to attend? The performance is Friday night,” he asked casually.

Tiffany was intrigued.

“Yes. I would like to attend. How much are the tickets?” she asked.

“
Don’t worry about it. I got it covered,” he said.

“
Are you sure? I don’t mind buying my ticket,” she said.

“
I’m sure. I got this,” he said firmly.

“
Okay,” she said.

“
I’ll pick you up at six o’clock. What’s your address?” he asked.

Tiffany hesitated, and Aaron held his breath. He didn’t want her to suggest that she meet him. He wanted the opportunity to pick her up. She wasn’t thinking of this outing as a date, but he was. Finally, she spoke.

“I live on Maple Lane. I’ll text you my address,” she said as she pulled her cell phone out of her zipper pocket.

Aaron let out his breath. He thanked his lucky stars. Not only would he get her address but he would have her phone number as well. They completed the exchange of information and she stood up.

“Thank you for working with me, Aaron. I really appreciate it,” she said genuinely.

“
You’re helping me as well. We’re training buddies, remember?” he responded.

“
I remember. I can’t be here tomorrow, but I’ll see you on Friday,” she said.

“
That’s fine. You shouldn’t work out too many days straight anyway when you’re just starting out. I’ll see you on Friday,” he confirmed.

“
Great! Bye,” she said.

“
Goodnight, Tiffany,” he responded.

She walked to the changing room. He smiled as he sat on the bench press and hefted the weighted bar. Tonight had been a good night and who knew what Friday night would bring. He would keep thinking positive thoughts.

Chapter 2

Tiffany looked through her wardrobe for about the hundredth time and she still was no closer to knowing what to wear.

“Are you still undecided about what to wear?” Marisa asked from the chaise lounge in the bedroom. “Just decide already.”

Tiffany stuck her head out of the walk-in closet.

“That’s easier said than done. I don’t want to look like a bum, but I don’t want to be overdressed either,” Tiffany said.

“
Why didn’t you ask him how you should dress?” Marisa asked. “I’m sure he’s been to a million of his cousin’s shows. He would know.”

“
Good idea. Too bad I didn’t think of it at the time,” Tiffany said.

“
Be safe and wear jeans, a blazer and heels. The blazer and heels will dress up the jeans but you won’t feel overdressed,” Marisa said.

“
And the jeans will keep it casual. Thanks, Marisa,” Tiffany said excitedly as she ducked back into the closet.

“
You’re welcome. What time is Mister Hunk coming?” Marisa said.

Tiffany came out of the closet carrying the articles of clothing. She took the blue jeans, a tan blazer and a yellow blouse and laid them across her Chinese silk dressing screen.

“He’s not Mister Hunk. He’s just Aaron,” Tiffany said.

“
You said he was built like Hercules and finer than Apollo,” Marisa said.

“
I did not. I said he had a nice build. That’s all. I didn’t say anything about his looks,” Tiffany defended.

“
But he is nice looking, right?” Marisa said.

“
Sure, he is. But so are a lot of other guys,” Tiffany said.

“
You’re not going out on a date with a lot of other guys. You’re going out with Aaron,” Marisa retorted.

Tiffany rolled her eyes and went behind the screen.

“I keep telling you it’s not a date. Don’t get it twisted,” Tiffany scoffed.

“
If you say so. I wonder if Aaron sees it that way,” Marisa muttered.

“
I heard that! And I’m sure he does. How could he not? We’ve only seen each other a couple of times,” Tiffany said.

“
If you don’t count high school,” Marisa said.

“
Of course I don’t count high school. I can’t say that I saw him more frequently there,” Tiffany said thoughtfully. “Remember, I wasn’t giving sophomores the time of day when I was a senior.”

“
True. But I imagine he was flat out staring at you,” Marisa chuckled.

“
I doubt that,” she said. Tiffany came out from behind the silk screen and struck a sexy pose. “How do I look?”

Marisa scrutinized Tiffany’s look and then smiled.

“You look great. Those colors go well together. You’re casual chic,” Marisa admired.

“
Thanks,” Tiffany grinned.

She moved to the dresser and fluffed her short curls. She then applied a soft cherry lipstick. She turned from the dresser just as the doorbell rang.

“Sir Galahad has arrived,” Marisa smirked.

“
Would you stop?” Tiffany said irritably.

Tiffany left the room and Marisa followed. Tiffany turned to look at her.

“And where are you going?” Tiffany asked.

Marisa smiled.

“Into the living room. I want to check him out,” Marisa said.

“
I’ve already told you what he is like,” Tiffany said.

“
I’d rather see for myself and draw my own conclusions,” Tiffany said smugly.

Tiffany rolled her eyes at her for the second time that evening.

“Fine. I’ll introduce you,” Tiffany said begrudgingly.

Marisa sat on the couch and picked up a magazine as if reading it, while Tiffany opened the door. Tiffany was pleasantly surprised when she saw Aaron. He looked good. Really good. He wore a red Polo shirt tucked into black jeans and black boots. His short sleeve shirt showed off his biceps to perfection. Tiffany had to admit that she was impressed.

“Hi, Aaron. Come in,” Tiffany greeted him.

“
Hi, Tiffany. You look great,” he complimented.

“
Thank you,” she answered with a smile.

“
I’m a little early. I hope you don’t mind,” Aaron said.

“
Not at all. We can sit in here for a little while,” she said.

Tiffany indicated the living room. He turned to enter the room and saw Marisa.

“Hi,” he said politely.

“
Hi,” Marisa returned cheerfully.

Tiffany made the introductions.

“It’s good to meet you. You are more than welcome to come with us,” he offered politely. He held his breath, hoping she would decline.

“
Not this time. I’m really bushed tonight. Maybe another time,” Marisa declined graciously. “I hear you and Tiffany attended the same high school.”

Tiffany sat on the couch beside Marisa as Aaron sat in the armchair. He leaned forward and rested his arms on his knees. Marisa took in his muscular build.

“Wow. He is a full on hottie and Tiffany should be seeing him as more than a training buddy. What was wrong with the girl?” Marisa thought.

“
Yes but we were not in the same circles,” Aaron said.

“
You should have been,” Marisa muttered under her breath.

“
I’m sorry. I didn’t hear you,” Aaron said.

“
Oh, nothing,” Marisa said.

Tiffany however had heard  Marisa’s remark. She gave Marisa a speaking look.

“I’m excited to see your cousin dance. What’s his name?” Tiffany asked.

“
Chancellor Jacob. We call him Chance,” he answered.

“
Well, I bet Chance is very good,” Tiffany smiled.

Aaron smiled at her use of his cousin’s name. Marisa saw the smoldering fire just beneath the surface in Aaron’s green eyes. It wouldn’t be long before he made a move on Tiffany.

“I’m probably a bit biased, but I think he is. He has skill, and a lot of it,” he answered.

“
Does he want to dance professionally?” Marisa asked.

“
Yes. He lives and breathes modern dance. He wants a scholarship to the Ailey School of Dance,” Aaron said.

“
The Alvin Ailey’s school? Wow! He must be really good,” Marisa exclaimed.

“
I can’t wait to see him,” Tiffany said.

Aaron checked his watch.

“It’s getting about that time. We should go,” he announced.

“
Okay,” Tiffany said as she stood.

Aaron and Marisa stood as well.

“Have fun tonight. And I will definitely tag along next time,” Marisa smiled.

“
I’ll hold you to it,” Aaron smiled.

Marisa smiled.

“Aaron didn’t want a third party with them any time soon,” Marisa thought. “She couldn’t blame him.”

Tiffany and Aaron moved to the door and Marisa followed.

“See you later, Marisa,” Tiffany said.

“
Alright,” Marisa replied.

“
Goodnight, Marisa,” Aaron said.

“
Goodnight,” Marisa responded.

Marisa closed the door behind them and grinned. Tiffany couldn’t see it but Aaron definitely had serious intentions. She could see it in his gorgeous green eyes. She was shocked that Tiffany couldn’t see it as well. Well, she looked forward to seeing how this pairing turned out. Her money was on Aaron.

*****

Aaron seated Tiffany in a comfortable chair in the second row of the Marshall Thornebrook Theater. She hadn’t known where the performance would take place, but she had assumed that it would be in a school auditorium, not a fancy theater. She was glad she had dressed suitably. Aaron had put on his black leather jacket, and he looked really cool. Tiffany looked around the theater appreciatively.

“This place is really nice. I feel like I’m sitting in the Gershwin Theater on Broadway,” Tiffany chuckled. “And sitting in the second row no less.”

“
You’re just special,” he laughed. “The Thornebrooke Theater is quite distinguished and has hosted many popular musicals. It was a coup for the Chance’s school to land this venue.”

“
Sounds like a personal favor was extended,” Tiffany mused.

“
You’re right. The dance instructor knew someone who knew the theater owner,” he grinned. “But, that’s how deals are made.”

“
The old golf course transaction. Hey, if it works I’m all for it,” she responded.

At that moment, the houselights went down. They smiled at each other and settled in their seats. The show started, and it was brilliant. He pointed out Chance, who was on the stage quite often as he was a principal in the production. Tiffany could have been knocked over with a feather. Chance was African American. She’d just assumed that Chance was Caucasian because Aaron was. That should teach her not to assume. Tiffany was soon carried away by the amazing dance. Aaron noticed that Tiffany was thoroughly engaged with the performance. She laughed, clapped and cheered at the moving and dramatic story that was being told through dance. There were moments when he wanted to clasp her hand but restrained himself. In her mind, this was not a date, and he had to remember that. He needed to bide his time and not scare her off. He would have to utilize patience. It wasn’t one of his strengths but here was the opportunity to improve upon it. The first act ended in dramatic style, and the curtain closed to much applause as the houselights came up.

“What did you think?” Aaron asked.

“
It’s fabulous. Thank you for inviting me. Chance is fantastic,” Tiffany praised.

“
He is pretty amazing, isn’t he?” Aaron grinned proudly.

Tiffany laughed.

“Yes, he is,” she answered.

“
Do you want to stretch your legs?” he asked.

She nodded.

“Yes, that would be nice,” she replied.

They stood and he escorted her out to the lobby.

“How about a drink? What would you like?” he asked.

“
White wine would be nice,” she answered,

She started to walk with him to the bar. It was her intention to pay for her drink but he stopped her.

“I got it. Just wait for me here,” he said.

He hurried off before she could protest. Tiffany frowned then shrugged as she began looking at the wall posters of previous performances that had taken place in the theater. She was impressed by the number of major productions that been staged at Thornebrooke. She was thus engaged when Aaron returned with the drinks. He handed her fancy plastic cup to her and tapped it with his own.

“To a good evening,” he toasted.

“
I second that,” she smiled.

They both drank. She noticed that he was drinking white wine as well.

“You drink white wine as well,” she mentioned.

“
I prefer it over red. Although red wine does reign in certain instances,” he said thoughtfully.

“
Such as,” she challenged.

“
Well, you shouldn’t eat a great steak with white wine. It would simply ruin the meal,” he grinned.

“
Really?” she grinned.

“
Really,” he replied.

“
Well, I happened to like white wine with steak,” she said casually.

He looked at her in horror.

“I see I will have to enhance your palate immediately,” he retorted appalled.

Tiffany giggled.

“Good luck with that,” she laughed.

He laughed with her.

“I accept the challenge,” he grinned.

They finished their wine and tossed the empty cups in the trash bin near them.

“You know I had a crush on you in high school,” Aaron said suddenly.

Tiffany looked at him in surprise.

“Noo!” Tiffany exclaimed.

“
Yes. I thought you were the coolest girl. I would imagine asking you out, and you would say yes,” Aaron smiled. “I would be the happiest boy on campus.”

“
Aww! How sweet. But I’m sure you had plenty of girls in your class that was goo-goo over you,” Tiffany said.

“
Not really. Just the opposite, in fact,” he returned.

“
That I can’t believe. Look at you. Those girls would have to be blind not to see how hot you were,” Tiffany said in surprise.

“
I looked a lot different in high school than I look now. What you see now is the results of years of working out and healthy eating,” he replied. “I was a scrawny, awkward kid back in the day.”