Ryker Fate(2)

James turned back to Arthur, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as if the scene that had just unfolded was nothing more than a casual interaction.

"Let's work out together," he suggested his tone light as if trying to dismiss the tension like it didn't exist.

Arthur's jaw clenched, the lingering pain in his throat from Ryker's chokehold still burning. He forced his breathing to steady, his eyes locking onto James's .

"No," Arthur replied flatly, his voice still hoarse. "I have something to do. I was just here to check out the gym."

James raised an eyebrow, clearly not used to being dismissed. His eyes flicked toward Ryker, who was watching the exchange with an amused grin.

"Come on, Arthur," James pushed, "you're already here. Might as well train with us. It'll be fun."

Arthur's fists curled at his sides, the memory of Ryker's crushing grip on his neck still vivid in his mind. He wasn't about to play along.

"I said no."