I was all of 18 and a bit full of myself. I had been attending this particular Gym for a few months now, reaping the rewards for all of my hard work.
I felt confidant and soaked up compliments and praise, my ego grew as well as my strength.
Although I loved all the attention and eyes upon me, I worked hard and intensely, pushed my limits and myself.
My dedication was noticed by the "Gym Regulars", and soon I was taken under their wing and mentored.
The group of hard, bulging men were impressive but only one really stood out to me.
Geoff was quiet, almost appearing shy. He stood at around 6ft, muscular, but not overly done.
He had an unusual look, tight curly blonde hair, fair complexion, light blue eyes. His torso was speckled everywhere with freckles, my hands seemed to beg to be able to touch his skin.
I mentioned to a friend that I thought he was rather cute. "He must be gay" she teased, "he doesn't even glance your way"
I made it my mission to find out all about this very private man.
I made excuses to workout beside him, to ask for his help, his advice.
Before too long we became "workout buddies".
I enjoyed his quiet company, he wasn't a talker, but when he did choose to say something, it was intelligent and interesting and he always had my full attention.
Our closeness was noticed around the gym. Our age difference was joked about, the 10yr or so difference didn't even occur to me, Geoff just brushed the jokes aside, nothing seemed to faze him, I admired him for that.
It wasn't long before he asked me if I was interested in trying out his favourite sport, Rock-climbing.
I jumped at the chance to accompany him.
He picked me up early and we headed off to the climb-site. The sheer rock faces loomed ominously upwards as we approached the base. I was feeling a little apprehensive, thinking I was a bit out of my depth, and then a reassuring hand touched my shoulder.
"Are you nervous?" Geoff looked amused at my discomfort.
"No, just excited" I lied.
His firm hands helped me into my harness; he pulled it tight, then tighter still.
"Mmmmmmm" I giggled, he laughed!
The rest of the day resulted in me being eased into the art of Rock-climbing, the sport was extremely tough and demanding, but I enjoyed the challenges that it presented, even more, I loved that Geoff was my teacher, he was there to catch me when I fell.
Reluctantly the day came to a close, and we walked back to his car.
"Hungry?" he asked.
"Starving" I winked back at him.
"I'll cook then," he stated, not waiting for any other response from me.
His house was nice, neat and organised. Geoff motioned for me to sit as he created a quick light meal for two.