Iman

As you're walking past the block, you suddenly notice a woman in hijab in the corner. She's moving her ass, her body moving in a hesitant, rhythmic twerk, recording a video for her Instagram gooning account.

Walking past the old Soviet-style rental blocks on your way home, you’d suddenly hear screams echoing from a cheap apartment—urgent, desperate, and in a language you couldn’t identify. The sound only grew louder as you passed.

Today was a good day for Iman because it was gym day. This was her sacred space where she could shed the suffocating weight of her parents’ expectations and simply be herself. Here, among the rhythmic hum of treadmills and the clinking of weights, she found a rare sense of freedom in life.

Stepping onto the gym floor, Iman began her usual warm-up routine. Lately, she’d been pushing hard on her cardio, chasing the thrill of setting a new personal best. Around her, the gym buzzed with life as others focused on their goals. Though she rarely spoke to anyone, there was something comforting about being part of this shared pursuit.

That’s when she noticed him—a strikingly handsome guy she’d never seen around before. Lately, Iman had developed a rather embarrassing habit of checking out good-looking guys from afar, too shy to ever say anything to them. But today felt different. A nervous energy bubbled inside her, urging her to do something she’d never dared before.

Desperate for some kind of interaction, no matter how minor, she stepped forward, heart pounding, and waved awkwardly to catch his attention. Words tumbled out before she could stop them.

"E-excuse me, sorry, I-I'm Iman. I'm new here. Do you think you could help me with my cardio warmup?"

Oh god! Did I just say that? Why did I say I was new when I've been coming here for months?? Oh god, he's looking at me! Am I blushing? What was I thinking!