Page 6 of The TV Show Rival
Jess lowered the tire with a huff, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow. “Hey, Mom! You’re early.” She tried for a casual tone, but the tremor in her voice betrayed her exhaustion.
She hurried towards her daughter, her gaze sweeping over Jess’ reddened face and damp clothes. “It’s almost seven, honey. You shouldn’t be working yourself this hard.”
“But Mom, I have to win the upcoming decathlon at school. The scholarship prize is the only way I can afford college for sports science.”
Different emotions spread over her mom’s face—pride, worry, and a deep ache of regret. She wasn’t able to give Jess the opportunities she craved, the fancy equipment or the sleek gym memberships. All she had was the scrapyard tire and her unwavering love.
“Honey, I know how much this means to you. But you’re pushing yourself too hard. What if you get hurt?”
Jess met her mother’s gaze with a fierceness that mirrored Sue’s own quiet strength. “I won’t, Mom. I have to try hard. This is my chance, my only chance.”
She reached out, her calloused hand gently cupping Jess’ cheek. “I know, sweetie. And I’m so proud of you for chasing your dreams. Believe me, I am. I just wish I could do more to help.” Her voice cracked slightly.
Jess squeezed her mother’s hand. “You do more than you know, Mom. You work so hard to give me everything you can. It’s enough. I promise.”
A watery smile touched her lips. Wiping away a stray tear, she said, “Alright then, little athlete. Let’s get you inside and make some breakfast.”
Present Day…
Jess stood there for a moment, a nostalgic smile gracing her lips as she gazed at the picture on the wall. Those grueling dawn workouts, fueled by the desperate hope of a scholarship, had paid off in ways she could never have imagined, making her not just a fitness trainer but a sought-after fitness influencer.
With a renewed sense of purpose tucked away in her heart, she grabbed her car keys, ready to head out.
Mango, ever the observer, cocked his head, his black eyes gleaming with what could have been amusement. “Looking fierce, huh, little guy?”
She chuckled, ruffling his feathers playfully. “See you later, buddy. Let’s go show those clients what real fitness is all about.”
The crisp autumn air whipped through Jess’ hair as she pulled into the parking lot of the outdoor fitness station. Her signature morning class, the aptly named “Morning Gruel,” was notorious for separating the wheat from the chaff.
It was a high-intensity interval training session designed to burn calories and leave participants begging for mercy (in the best way possible, of course).
Today’s crew stood huddled in various states of anticipation—some with water bottles clutched tightly, others bouncing on the balls of their feet, ready for action.
Jess walked towards them, her smile radiating a confidence that bordered on intensity. Scanning the faces before her, she saw a mix of regulars—battle-hardened veterans sporting determined expressions—and some newbies.
“Alright, Gruelers! Ready to earn your breakfast? Don’t come in here expecting a leisurely stroll. This is high-octane fitness, designed to drill you!”
A feel of nervous energy ran through the group, but Jess didn’t flinch. Soft wasn’t on the menu. Her clients weren’t here for pats on the back; they were here for results, and she was the drill sergeant ready to deliver.
“...Let’s loosen those rusty joints. High knees, people, higher! Feel the blood pumping, feel your body waking up!”
Each command was a rallying cry, coated with a tough love that brooked no excuses. Jumping jacks turned into burpees, high knees transitioned into lunges, each repetition executed with a focus on form and explosiveness.
“Harder! Show your body who’s boss. Pain is temporary, quitting is forever!”
No time for self-pity, no room for excuses. She demanded effort, sweat, and the unwavering belief that they could conquer anything she threw their way.
By the end of the session, the group was a collective mess of sweat and exhilaration. Collapsed on the cool grass, some panted for breath, others wore triumphant grins that spoke volumes.
“Alright, warriors! You did good today. Remember, every drop of sweat, every burning muscle, is a step closer to the version of yourself you crave to be. Now, get some protein in those bellies, and come back for more tomorrow!”
3
JAMIE
“Welcome, everyone, to today’s cooking class, “Nourishing Your Mind and Body!” Today, we’re going to whip up some delicious and healthy dishes that are not only good for your taste buds but also do wonders for your brainpower and mood.” Jamie, a whirlwind of energy in a cheerful red apron, greeted her eager students with a warm smile.
A young woman raised her hand. “I’m always so sluggish in the afternoon. What can I eat to beat the slump?”