Frank headed for the local gym. He’d wanted to try working out for some time, but he was far too small and young. Now, at 13, he’s still be on the young side but wouldn’t be turned away out of hand.
Unknown to Frank, the contaminant surging through his body was still active, looking for any stimulation to grow him further, in whatever way made sense.
Frank arrived at the gym. Happy to learn that it was free for those under 15, he headed for the machines. As he struggled to properly set the weight on the pull down, a voice next to him said, “First time, huh?”
Frank turned and saw another 13-year-old boy. He was Frank’s height, and also pretty good-looking, but while Frank’s muscles were still struggling to show themselves, his were visibly defined and toned. He wore a white tank top that clung tightly to his body.
“Here, let me help,” the boy said, reaching and setting the weight. “Try that,” he said.
Frank tried pulling down and got an exhilarating feeling of strain but success as he pulled the handles down to his face.
“Thanks,” he said to the other boy.
“No problem. My name’s Landen. You look like you could use a partner…?”
“My name’s Frank,” he answered. “And yeah, it’s my first time.”
“Don’t worry,” Landen flashed a crooked grin at him. “I’ll teach you everything I know.”
As they proceeded, Frank felt more at ease. Landen did indeed know what he was doing. He was also an excellent spotter when they got to the bench and squat racks.
He noticed Landen give him a funny look, then the other boy said, “Are you new in town? You’re my age but I haven’t seen you around school.”
Frank hurriedly said, “I’m homeschooled. I don’t get out much.”
“Well, that would explain it,” Landen said, the look leaving his face.
When they were done, Frank invited Landen to come home with him, where they could shower and change (Landen had a duffel bag with a change of clothes inside). Landen reminded him the gym had showers, but Frank still wasn’t entirely comfortable with that yet. The two headed back to Frank’s house.
Frank had developed the mind of a 13-year-old as well as the body, but the contaminant felt so much potential for it to continue to act.