The Arranged Marriage

13

Asher finally had a day off today. He sat with me to discuss about what he wanted to talk yesterday. It was about an event. When Asher mentioned the Annual Police Adventure Challenge, I couldn't contain my excitement. It sounded like the ultimate test of skills and teamwork, and I was determined to convince Asher to join me.

"Come on, Ash, it'll be amazing!" I urged him, my eyes wide with enthusiasm. Plus, I get to spend more time with him. Hehe.

At first, he seemed hesitant, not really interested in the event. But as I explained the thrill of the challenge and how much it would mean to me, he relented. We had three days to prepare, and I threw myself into planning and training.

As we sat down to discuss the game, Asher explained the rules in detail. "So, there are two phases to the challenge," he began, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. "The first phase consists of three games. The first is a fun mud wrestling match between pairs, followed by a running game and a ball game where we have to throw the ball into our opponent's net using only our hands."

Listening intently, I absorbed every detail, imagining us tackling each game with determination and teamwork.

"After the first phase, the top six pairs move on to the second phase," Asher continued. "This phase takes place in a snowy or hilly region, and it's like a treasure hunt. The first three pairs to finish the adventure in two days win the game."

I nodded eagerly, already envisioning us navigating through the challenges, strategizing to overcome obstacles, and emerging victorious.

Asher explained the stakes of the Annual Police Adventure Challenge, emphasizing what winning meant for the participants. "The winners of the challenge not only gain recognition within the department but also receive a week off as a reward," he clarified, his tone carrying a mix of seriousness and anticipation. "And it's not just any week off—it comes with a sponsored vacation to any place of their choice."

His words painted a picture of excitement and possibility, fueling my determination to give it my all in the upcoming challenge.

No wonder it's hard to win. A week of with paid pay and a sponsored vacay? Hell yeah. Our preparation starts from tomorrow. I can't wait. Me being the excited one, I challenge Ash for a push up challenge.

"Hey, wanna challenge me to a push-up contest?" I smirk, feeling a surge of playful competitiveness.

"I'm a police officer, hun," he retorts with a confident smile, clearly not one to back down from a challenge.

"But I used to be quite the athlete," I boast, a hint of nostalgia creeping into my voice as memories of my middle school days flood my mind. Of course, I don't say that part out loud; no need to reveal all my secrets.

"Let's do this," he agrees, setting a timer as we get ready for the challenge. Just as we're about to start, he casually starts removing his tee.

"What? Hey, stop!" I stammer, caught off guard by his sudden strip tease.

"I always work out shirtless," he explains with a mischievous glint in his eyes, clearly enjoying my reaction. I huff in mock annoyance; he's definitely doing this on purpose. I obviously know that he works out shirtless. I have seen him countless times working out way too early in the morning. What an eye sight. I sigh dreamily.

I couldn't help but steal a glance as Asher went through his morning workout routine, his shirtless form glistening with a sheen of sweat in the morning light. Watching him from afar, hidden from his view, was like witnessing a masterpiece in motion. Every flex of his muscles, every drop of sweat tracing down his skin, it was all so captivating.

His movements were fluid yet powerful, a display of strength and grace that left me breathless. The way his defined abs tensed with each lift, the way his arms bulged with effort, it was like a seductive dance of raw masculinity. I found myself lost in thoughts of what it would be like to feel his strong hands on my skin, his warm breath mingling with mine.

As he moved through his routine with focused determination, I couldn't help but imagine the intimate moments we could share, the passion that could ignite between us. These steamy thoughts were my secret indulgence, hidden behind the curtain of admiration for his dedication to fitness.

Yep, I sound like a creeper and a stalker combined. I hope he doesn't mind it.

I slip into my workout gear, a snug tank top that accentuates my curves and comfortable leggings. Tying my hair into a ponytail, I secure it with a bright pink scrunchie and wrap a matching wristband around my forearm. With a bottle of water in hand, I queue up my favorite playlist and hit play, the upbeat rhythm instantly energizing me. I can feel Asher's eyes on me. Both can play this game, Sweetheart.

"1,2,3,4,5,6..." and it goes on.

Oh, incase you guys were wondering that's me counting sitting on Ash's back. Because, he is a cop, okay? His stamina and strength is too high.

"Now, it's your turn." He says.

"I got this!"

"1,2,3- ARIA ARE YOU OKAY?" I fall on the floor wheezing with a thud sound.

"I'm done" I say as I collapse onto the floor, barely able to catch my breath, Asher comes to my rescue with a teasing chuckle. He lifts me up in his strong arms, carrying me like a princess to the bed, where he gently lays me down.

"Athlete, huh? It's okay, sweetheart. You win. My hundred and your three, that's a hundred and three. You win" planting a soft kiss on the top of my head. I can't help but blush at his sweet gesture, feeling a warm flutter in my chest. He grabs a damp cloth to wipe away the sweat from my forehead, his touch sending a tingle of electricity through me.

I shake my head, no dirty thoughts.

"It's perfectly alright," he teases me with a playful wink, his eyes sparkling with affection and amusement. I giggle nervously, realizing that I had said the last sentence loud. Embarrassed by my candidness, I bury my face in my hands, cheeks burning with a mix of shyness.

xxxx

A/N: Hope you guys liked this chapter. Vote and comment <3