Sang's Break GA+SB

Chapter Four

I groan as I stretch my body. It's early still, but sleep is a far away thought. What shall I do today? I spent all of last night unpacking my things and creating a homier space. It didn't take me long. Considering I mostly have clothes.

The apartment is spacious, a two-bedroom with the second room converted into an office. All the furniture is nice, perfect even. I assumed the apartment would have some questionable furniture, but everything was stylish and practically new. If it wasn't for the smell of dust when I came in, I'd say the apartment was freshly painted and furnished.

I sit up in the bed and contemplate my options for the day. The sun hasn't come up yet, so it would be too early to swing by the diner. The hospital doesn't need me today, and I don't have any plans until the evening self-defense course. Maybe a run and a swim to start my day.

Gathering my clothes, I put on my bathing suit before sliding on leggings and a sports bra. I tie my hair back before shoving a towel, fresh clothes, and a water in my backpack. Securing my headphones, I lock up my apartment and make my way to the inside track. I need to set up security today. Since I'm staying for a while, security is a necessity. I'll start with a bug sweep before I install my cameras and sensors.

I step into the elevator and press for the 10th floor. The apartment complex is massive and holds a diverse physical center on the top floor. When the elevator dings, I exit and face the multitude of the gym. There's a track, a pool, a spa, weights and cardio, and a convertible tennis/basketball court. Since it's early, the space is abandoned. I set my bag down in the spare cubbies, and head to the track. I take my time stretching and warming up. I dread running, but I know it's necessary to maintain my stamina. In more ways than one.

I begin my trek, my headphones blocking out any noises. I run a mile before I stop and sip some water. I glance around and notice a familiar face using the weights. I'm surprised to see him there; it's early, only 5am. I dab off my sweat and walk over to greet him. As I get closer, I realize that although they have the same face, this is someone new. He smells like motor oil and pine. I'm embarrassed and start to turn to go to the pool when he glances up. Our eyes lock together, his cerulean blues are sad, haunted. Unlike his brother Corey, this twin has faced a lot of troubles. He raises his eyebrows at me in question.

"Sorry to interrupt. I thought you were Corey before I came over. I just wanted to say 'hi' but then I realized you must be his twin."

Shock flashes over his face before it returns to a brooding state. He grunts out, "It happens," before returning to his work out.

I give him a tight smile, "Sorry for the confusion." I head back to my backpack. I strip off my running gear, switching out the towel in my bag with my running clothes and shoes. I rinse off in the poolside shower before diving into a swim lane. I spend some time swimming laps, changing my technique every so often. When my fingers start to prune, I climb out and dry off. I can feel eyes on me as I do, raking up and down my figure. I look over my shoulder to find the brooding culprit, but he does nothing to contain his roaming eyes. At first, I assumed he was checking me out, but I noticed his gaze focusing on certain pieces of my body. Pieces that most people find unappealing.

My body is littered with scars. Some are quite creatively shaped thanks to the step-monster, but they are everywhere. Especially my torso and back. His eyes hold no judgement, however. They flicker with recognition. My face saddens, knowing our kinship is abuse. Turning away, I walk back to my belongings and change. Sliding my headphones back on, I find that Broody Corey will be joining me on my journey in the elevator. We step on and he presses number 7. My eyebrows raise at the surprise, but I settle in for the ride. He keeps glancing at me quizzically. I look back at him with questioning eyes. Sliding off my headphones, I ask, "Yes?"