Chapter 7: A New Kind of Employment
Jake wiped the sweat off his brow and dropped the dumbbells back into place. His arms felt like noodles, but his spirit felt… lighter.
"Thanks, man," Jake said, rolling his shoulder. "For everything. But I think it's time I try to get a job. Can't keep freeloading forever."
He picked up his bag, ready to walk toward the door when Alex suddenly called out.
"Hey—why don't you work with me?"
Jake turned around slowly, blinking. "You mean here? In this gym?"
Alex nodded, serious but with that same casual confidence. "Yeah. I could use a hand."
Jake gave a short laugh. "You do remember I'm incompetent, right?"
Alex shrugged. "Exactly. That's why I want you here. You never got a real shot out there. Let's start with something small."
Jake looked at him for a moment, his walls slowly crumbling as warmth crept in. "You… really mean that?"
Alex smiled. "Of course. Besides, I trust you. And you already know how to make this place feel less lonely."
Jake hesitated, glancing back at the corner of the gym where he slept. "Okay but… where do I sleep then?"
"You're already sleeping here," Alex said, walking past him to grab a towel. "That doesn't need to change."
Jake chuckled. "So… what's the job? 'Cause with this noodle body I can't exactly train people."
Alex tossed the towel into a bin. "Simple. You're my assistant. Help clean the place, keep it organized, and try to promote the gym. Talk to people, post online, whatever works."
Jake raised his brow. "Salary?"
Alex rubbed the back of his neck. "Not much. Business isn't exactly booming. But I'll split what I can."
Jake considered it. He looked around the gym—at the scuffed floor, the weights, the dusty corners that needed sweeping… and the rare feeling that he belonged somewhere.
He grinned. "So let me get this straight: I get a place to sleep, some pocket money, and I can work out for free?"
Alex laughed. "Exactly."
Jake walked forward and held out his hand. "Then you got yourself an assistant, Coach."
Their hands met in a firm shake, laughter echoing through the gym.
For the first time in years, Jake felt like he wasn't just surviving—he was starting over.