Page 25 of The TV Show Rival
“Interesting,” Terry muttered, stroking his chin thoughtfully. “And how would you translate that philosophy to working with a team on Ultimate Body Battle? The show is known for its intensity and competitive spirit.”
Terry was a picture of corporate composure, with his brown hair meticulously styled in a side part. The crisp lines of his charcoal suit hinted at a man who valued order and control.
A smile spread across Jamie’s face. “Challenges can be a powerful motivator. On Ultimate Body Battle, I wouldn’t just be pushing my team physically. I’d be there to support them mentally and emotionally, helping them overcome obstacles and discover their hidden potential.”
Wills raised an eyebrow. “Interesting. Many of our trainers here at Ultimate Body Battle come from a more traditional fitness background. What makes yoga a unique and effective approach to achieving results?”
“Yoga incorporates breathwork, mindfulness, and mental focus to create a holistic approach to well-being. It’s not just about building muscle or burning calories; it’s about building resilience, improving flexibility, and fostering a sense of inner peace. These are all qualities that can contribute to a person’s overall success, both on the show and in their daily lives.”
“What kind of yoga do you specialize in?” Sophia inquired, leaning forward with interest.
“I primarily teach Vinyasa flow, but I also incorporate elements of Hatha and restorative yoga into my classes, depending on the needs of my students.”
The conversation flowed easily, and Jamie could tell the producers were engaged. Then, just as they were wrapping up the standard interview questions, Terry leaned forward with a smirk.
“We’ve been very impressed with your work. Like the other participants, we did some research and were particularly struck by your passion for yoga and the positive impact you have on your clients.”
“But, what really caught our eye was your recent TikTok post,” Sophia added.
Jamie’s breath hitched. The post. The one where she (perhaps a little too vehemently) defended yoga against Jess’ boot camp claims.
“Oh, right. That was… quite the discussion,” Jamie said, trying to sound nonchalant.
Wills chuckled. “Let’s just say it generated a lot of buzz. And that’s one of the qualities we look for in our trainers—the ability to spark conversation, to get people excited about fitness. We want trainers who are passionate, not afraid to stand up for what they believe in.”
Jamie was relieved. So, the online brawl with Jess wasn’t negative after all? In fact, it might have even helped her case!
8
JESS
Her head held high, Jess sashayed out of the interview room, the positive vibes practically radiating from her. Nailing that interview felt like conquering Mount Everest in Lululemons. Just another day in the life of Jess Thompson, future Ultimate Body Battle champion, that’s her!
With a pep in her step, she headed towards the restroom, needing to freshen up before heading home.
Pushing open the ladies’ room door, she was greeted by the sight of Jamie bloody Nguyen’s elegant back bent over the sink. Ugh. Great.
Just what she needed, another reminder of the online brawl and that infuriating sneer painted on Jamie’s face. Jess clenched her jaw, ready to make a beeline for a stall and get out of there as quickly as possible.
But then, Jamie straightened up as she washed her hands, and for a moment, Jess forgot everything else. It was like a strange feeling sneaked up on her. It wasn’t animosity or irritation; it was something closer to… attraction?
Jess didn’t often find women who matched her height and stature and although Jamie seemed somehow more graceful leaner and long limbed, Jess enjoyed running her gaze over Jamie’s body. Jamie looked like a more masculine version of Jess. She didn’t have the full breasts or thick eyelashes Jess had. Jamie had a strong jawline and lovely wide set brown eyes, and very sexy muscular shoulders.
High cheekbones, full lips curved into a soft smile, and eyes the color of melted chocolate. Maybe it was that her figure filled out her pantsuit in a way that was both graceful and powerful. Whatever it was, Jess found herself completely caught off guard by this sudden shift in perspective.
Okay, Jess, focus. This is not the time to be appreciating the enemy’s perfectly sculpted silhouette. There’s no time for impromptu lesbian crushes in the bathroom. Besides, you’re a boot camp queen, not some lovestruck yoga enthusiast. Just get in, get out, and maintain your aura of intimidating confidence.
But seriously, Jamie was like a walking fitness magazine cover come to life. Thick, toned, with a healthy glow that screamed yoga master. It was almost enough to make Jess reconsider her entire boot-camp-or-bust philosophy. Almost.
Suddenly, Jamie turned, and their eyes met, and for a split second, Jess was frozen. Did Jamie catch her staring? There was no way she could let her know she was practically checking her out.
Trying to mask her surprise, Jess forced a smirk and headed towards the sink next to Jamie. Turning on the faucet, she lathered her hands with soap, hoping to appear nonchalant.
They finished washing their hands at the same time and reached for the air dryer simultaneously, their bodies momentarily blocking each other’s path.
“Excuse me,” Jess muttered, trying to sound polite but failing miserably.
Jamie stepped back slightly, her lips twitching at the corners. “Oh, go ahead,” she said, her voice surprisingly gentle.