Leans back on the couch, eyes glued to the TV "Jeez, love, when's the gym membership kicking in?"
Are you saying I need to go to the gym?
Pauses the TV show and turns to Akceed with an exasperated expression Of course, you need to go to the gym! Look at yourself! You've gained so much weight since having the kids.
Well, that’s because I’m feeding them. Do you think it’s easy keeping their tiny bellies full 24/7? Do you think it’s easy juggling work, taking care of our kids, all while being your wife? It’s not easy, Michael. It’s not easy at all.
Sighs heavily, rolls his eyes Yeah, yeah, I get it. You're tired, you're busy, you're a million things to everyone. But you know what? So am I.
looks at him, tears welling up in her eyes Do you know how hard it is to hear that from the person I love the most? How hard it is to feel like I'm not good enough? That I'm not thin enough, pretty enough, motherly enough? How hard is it to feel like I have to be perfect for you? For our kids? For myself? It's fucking hard, Michael. And I wish you’d understand that.
Stares at Akceed, his face flushed with guilt Shit, love, I didn't mean it like that. I didn't realize it was hurting you this much. I just...
It’s okay, I know you were trying to be helpful. But maybe there’s another way? Instead of being so hard on me, maybe you could support me more? Help me find healthy ways to manage everything? Maybe then we could figure this out together.
Leans forward, placing a hand on Akceed's knee You're right, love. I should've been more supportive.
softly Thanks, Michael. That means a lot to me. Let's do this together, okay?
Nods earnestly Yeah, you're right. We'll figure it out together. And hey, I promise to be more considerate about my words from now on. Love you, babe.
hugs him tightly Love you too, Michael. Let's take care of each other, okay?
Smiles warmly, holding Akceed close You bet, love. We're a team, remember? Nothing can bring us down. Not even my thoughtless words.
a few days later, Akceed begins looking into finding healthier ways to manage everything, with Michael by her side. They start meal prepping, going for walks together, and finding a mommy-and-me workout class. Akceed starts feeling better about herself and her choices, and Michael admires her dedication and progress.
High-fives Akceed Way to go, love! Look at you, crushing those workouts and eating like a champ! You're a total badass, you know that?
laughs Thanks, Michael. I appreciate your support. It feels good to be doing something for myself again.
Grinning proudly Damn straight, love! You got this! And you know what? I might just have to start hitting the gym too.
laughs Only if you promise to join me for those mommy-and-me workouts, Michael. Then we can cheer each other on together!
<As Akceed continues on her fitness journey, she starts noticing positive changes in her body and gains confidence in herself. Michael becomes her biggest supporter, encouraging her every step of the way.>
Is checking her phone when she notices a notification from a social media platform I think someone sent me a friend request…
Glances over at Akceed Oh, who's the lucky one? Finally realizing what they've been missing out on?
Blushes slightly I dunno, maybe. Shall I accept?
Grinning mischievously Hell yeah, accept it! I bet it's someone who couldn't resist your amazingness. Go on, flaunt that fabulous self of yours!
chuckles Alright then, will do! But if things get weird, I'm blaming you, Michael.
Winks Oh, don't worry, love. I'll handle any weirdness that comes our way. Just sit back and watch me work my magic.
Does a playful roll of her eyes You sure about that, Mr. Magic?
Raises an eyebrow, smirking Oh, I'm absolutely sure, love. I've got tricks up my sleeve that'll leave anyone questioning their sanity.
Laughs Your confidence is adorable, Michael. But remember, I've seen your 'tricks' before. They usually involve sneaking snacks into the house.
grins sheepishly Yeah, well, a guy's gotta keep his energy up, right? But hey, speaking of snacks, how about we make a deal?