Chapter 3 The Gym Star

Lila POV

I spent my lunch break playing detective. Vera's Instagram was a treasure trove of information—gym selfies, sponsored protein powder posts, and enough personal details to paint a clear picture.

Elite Body Works downtown. Personal trainer specializing in "alpha fitness programs." The gym's logo appeared in dozens of photos, along with location tags that confirmed Vera's daily routine.

More interesting were the recent posts. A diamond tennis bracelet that looked familiar. Designer handbags photographed against luxury car interiors. Restaurant check-ins at places I recognized from our credit card statements.

Marcus had been generous with his gifts.

The most telling photo was from two weeks ago—Vera in workout gear, hand resting on her still-flat stomach, captioned: "New goals, new life, blessed beyond words �� #futuremother #blessed #newbeginnings"

The comments were revealing too. Her gym friends congratulating her, asking about the father. Vera's responses were coy but telling: "He's amazing, successful, everything I've dreamed of" and "You'll meet him soon, when the timing is right."

I saved every screenshot methodically. Then I dug deeper.

Vera Blackstone, twenty-six, from the Olympic Peninsula pack. Her father owned a chain of sporting goods stores across Washington. Not wealthy by Grey standards, but respectable pack bloodline. The kind of family that would see Marcus as a significant step up.

Her LinkedIn showed certifications in fitness training and nutrition, but also something interesting—a brief stint at Grey Security three years ago as a "facilities coordinator." She'd been in our building, in our world, long before this affair began.

Had Marcus been planning this for three years?

My phone buzzed with a text from him: How's your day, beautiful? Missing you.

I typed back: Missing you too. Can't wait to see you tonight.

Working late again, unfortunately. Seattle deal is heating up. Don't wait up.

Of course he was. I checked Elite Body Works' hours—they offered evening training sessions until nine PM. Perfect for after-work rendezvous.

I spent the rest of the afternoon creating a comprehensive file on Vera Blackstone. Social media posts, family background, professional history, even her gym's class schedule. Know your enemy became my new motto.

Marcus arrived home with takeout and apologies, the same routine as always. But tonight, I noticed details I'd previously overlooked. The way he checked his phone constantly. How he showered immediately after coming home, claiming he'd been at the gym during lunch break.

"New cologne?" I asked, curling up beside him on the couch.

"Same as always," Marcus said, but his hand went unconsciously to his neck. "Why?"

"Just smells different tonight. Nicer."

He relaxed, pleased. "Maybe you're just missing me more."

During dinner, I tested my new knowledge carefully.

"Jennifer mentioned the facilities coordinator position might open up again," I said, twirling pasta around my fork. "Remember Vera something? She worked there briefly a few years ago."

Marcus's fork paused for just a moment. "Vaguely. Why?"

"Jennifer thought she might reapply. Said she's doing well at some gym downtown now."

"Probably better suited for fitness work," Marcus replied neutrally. "Not everyone can handle corporate environments."

Such a smooth liar. I filed the information away.

"Speaking of fitness," I continued, "I've been thinking about getting a personal trainer. My energy levels have been low lately."

"That's a great idea." Marcus's enthusiasm seemed genuine. "Exercise might help with the stress."

"Any recommendations? You know all the pack-owned businesses."

"I'd have to think about it," Marcus said quickly. "Maybe ask Dr. Elena for suggestions."

He definitely wouldn't recommend Elite Body Works.

After dinner, Marcus disappeared into his study for "urgent calls." I cleaned up, then quietly positioned myself where I could hear his conversation through the thin wall.

His voice was too low to make out words, but the tone was intimate, affectionate. Nothing like his professional calls. When he laughed—a sound I'd once treasured—my stomach twisted.

I retreated to my own office and continued my research. Property records showed Vera renting a luxury apartment in the harbor district. Expensive for a trainer's salary, but affordable if someone else was helping with expenses.

Credit card statements revealed the truth. Monthly payments to Harbor View Luxury Residences, always on the first of the month. Marcus wasn't just buying her gifts—he was paying her rent.

I sat back in my chair, staring at the evidence on my laptop screen. This wasn't just an affair. It was a complete replacement plan, funded and orchestrated over months, possibly years.

My phone buzzed with a notification. New Instagram post from Vera, uploaded ten minutes ago. The photo showed her hand wearing a ring I'd never seen—not an engagement ring, but a promise ring. Elegant sapphire surrounded by diamonds.

The caption read: "When someone sees your true worth �� #spoiled #lucky #grateful"

The timestamp showed it was posted while Marcus was supposedly on his "urgent call" in the next room.

I zoomed in on the photo. The ring was beautiful, expensive, thoughtful. The kind of gift that showed real consideration, not obligation.

When had Marcus last bought me jewelry that wasn't for an anniversary or birthday? When had he last looked at me the way he must look at Vera?

Footsteps in the hallway warned me of Marcus's approach. I quickly closed my laptop and picked up a book, arranging myself casually in my chair.

"Hey," Marcus said, appearing in my doorway. "Thought you were going to bed early."

"Couldn't sleep. Too much on my mind about the European position."

He crossed to my chair, hands settling on my shoulders with practiced affection. "Still thinking about it?"

"I sent my acceptance today," I said, watching his face in the window's reflection.

Relief flickered across his features before he masked it with supportive concern. "That's wonderful. I'm proud of you for taking the chance."

"You don't mind? A whole year apart?"

"I'll miss you terribly," Marcus said, pressing a kiss to the top of my head. "But I want you to chase your dreams."

Such a loving husband. Making all my dreams come true while he pursued his own.

"I love you," I said, meaning it as a goodbye to who I used to be.

"Love you too," Marcus replied, meaning it for exactly as long as it took to replace me.

After he went to bed, I opened my laptop again and began making lists. Evidence collected. Timelines established. Vulnerabilities identified.

I had just figured out the rules.