Page 88 of Aries
“Hey, everyone, my name is Aries. I’m the owner of this gym, and I’ll be running this class. Like most people in this town, I’ve had my fair share of bullshit, and I decided I never wanted to feel weak again. So, I dedicated my life, and my career, to learning how to protect myself. Now, I like to share it with you guys so you can feel empowered right along with me.”
A few of the newbies looked hopeful and nervous, but soon they’d be kicking ass with the rest of us.
“We’re going to start with some warm-up stretches.”
I took my time showing them each one, adjusting anyone who was struggling. My mind was finally clearing, some of the anger draining now that I was doing what I loved.
Then we moved on to self-defense moves, partnering up and taking turns being the attacker and learning how to get away. I kept my eyes on each of their faces, noting if it looked like anyone was pushing themselves too far. The last thing I wanted was for someone to get triggered by a move.
Discomfort we could handle. Hell, I didn’t like being grabbed, either. But we took it slow, and everyone was determined enough that it made the class easy.
Until the end of class. One of the new girls let out a gasp, her chest rising and falling a bit too rapidly. I walked over, standing next to her and speaking quietly.
“Take a breath. You’re safe here. We’re all safe and soon they won’t hold this power over you.”
She nodded and forged ahead, but in ten more minutes, I could see the signs it was about to turn.
“Alright, time to cool down!” I called out, having them stretch again and walk it out before ending the class.
“Are you alright? I know this class can be intense. It brings up a lot of old feelings,” I asked gently when she was the only one left, fumbling to open her water bottle with how badly her hands shook.
“I’m sorry,” she said, trying frantically to wipe her eyes as tears leaked free. Her embarrassment had her wildflower scent wilting.
“No worries at all. We’ve all been here a time or two,” I reassured her.
“It’s just… I’m fairly small, and alphas always think it’s okay to pick me up and carry me around like a doll. Back in high school I stupidly thought it was cute,” she said, letting out a wet laugh. “Then as I got older… it was for very different reasons.”
“No one here is going to try that with you,” I promised. “But I might have a few moves that can help you get out of it. What’s your name?”
“Lindsay.”
“Ah! So, you’re the one I have the private session with after, right?” She nodded.
“Well, we’ll start a little differently than usual. As omegas, sometimes our size and biology work against us. When faced with alpha brawn, it can be difficult to fight back, but not impossible.”
She blew out a breath, wiping her tears, and focusing fully on me.
I walked her through escape techniques. Starting with how to drop her weight, how to strike vulnerable areas, and how to break free and run.
We repeated the movements until they became more natural.
It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start.
“Let’s do a little workout. The more muscle and agility you build, the better you’ll be at all this.”
Since it was her first time, I took my time showing her each machine and how they worked. Some people complained I was dumbing it down, but I’d rather they be safe than injured.
By the time I finished and said goodbye to Lindsay, I was dripping sweat, but I was also in a much better headspace.
Leon was talking to Cassie at the front desk when I walked out. They looked up and Cassie waved me over.
“How did it go? She seemed so sweet,” Cassie whispered.
“Great, I think we’ll see her around a lot more,” I said before leaning into Leon.
“Are you sure you want me to work the night shift tonight?” Leon asked. “That means you’ll be alone when they get back.”
“We don’t even know if they’re coming back,” I said. “And I’m not scared of them. Plus, I have a security system.”
