Chapter 4
Claire sat nervously in her luxurious hotel suite, surrounded by plush carpets, sleek furniture, and glittering chandeliers that illuminated every corner. She glanced around anxiously, meticulously checking each detail before settling on a leather sofa. The air carried the scent of expensive perfume mixed with a rich oakwood aroma. On the centrepiece of a glass-topped coffee table lay the contract signed between Linda and Mia, waiting to be signed. A bottle of red wine rested beside it.
Now and then, Claire’s gaze strayed to the door, anticipating Mia’s entrance. Claire heard a faint knock at the door as the clock struck seven-fifty-five. Her pulse quickened as she rose from the chair. With a deep breath, she strode confidently toward the door, eager to seal the deal with Mia.
Mia stood outside Claire's hotel room, feeling both nervous and excited. She took a deep breath and straightened her posture, adjusting the straps of her dress to ensure they showcased her bulging arms. It was a form-fitting gown made of shimmering silver fabric, hugging her thick glutes like a second skin while revealing just enough muscle definition for anyone to appreciate. As she stood there, Mia couldn't help but wonder if signing this contract with Claire would do more harm than good. Even then, she could hear her mother’s overbearing words in her head.
When Claire opened the door, she greeted Mia with a warm smile. "Welcome, Mia!”
Mia nodded slightly. She followed Claire into the room, taking in its opulent décor. Mia felt mixed emotions swirling inside her as she sat down opposite Claire. Part of her was thrilled at the prospect of securing such a lucrative deal, but another part worried about losing control over more important things: her autonomy. As Claire poured them both glasses of red wine, Mia tried to push aside her doubts. This was an opportunity too good to pass up. But she knew what had to be done to secure it.
The silence hung heavily as Mia sipped the full-bodied red wine provided by Claire. She couldn't shake off the nagging doubt creeping into her thoughts. Her eyes wandered around the extravagant surroundings, taking in the intricate details and fine furnishing. Mia noticed how different Claire's physical appearance was from hers. While Mia's almost hulking musculature screamed power and strength, Claire's lithe frame hinted at a delicate beauty that belied her steely professionalism.
However, Mia needed to thoroughly read the contract, ensuring every clause aligned perfectly with her values and beliefs. Only after thorough analysis should she consider signing on the dotted line. This moment represented a turning point in Mia's life in many ways. However, as much as she craved success, Mia refused to sacrifice her integrity. The question was whether Claire shared similar sentiments.
Of course, Mia knew Claire wanted more than just business from her. She saw potential, raw energy, and untapped desire. Mia couldn't ignore that Claire had a significant influence, and she understood exactly what was required to make progress. That realisation came with a heavy price tag that involved giving Claire what she wanted most. As much as Mia hated admitting it, she knew sleeping with Claire was necessary to secure the partnership.
Linda's voice echoed in Mia's mind, reminding her of her duty to succeed. "And what happens when you fail? When you hit a roadblock and don't know which way to turn?” Linda said sternly. “Will you crumble under the pressure?”
Mia gritted her teeth, trying to block out the sound of her mother's voice. She couldn't believe she was considering sacrificing her morality to please someone else. But the lure of fame and fortune was too strong to resist. Mia closed her eyes, taking a deep breath.
Their fingers intertwined as Claire reached across the table to take Mia's hand. Mia hesitated for a beat, unsure of what to do next. Claire leaned forward. "I have to say, Mia, I'm impressed. You're not only beautiful but also incredibly talented. I feel lucky to have the chance to work with someone as gifted as you."
Mia was grateful for the compliment but wary of where this might lead. "Thank you," she replied softly.
There was a moment of uncomfortable silence. Finally, Claire broke it. "Look, Mia, I know we haven't known each other long, but I want us to get to know each other better. Maybe we should start light with a little chat.”
Claire's eyes lingered on Mia's lips as she spoke, Mia nodding softly.
As the conversation continued, Claire asked about Mia's personal life, delving into her relationships, desires, and goals and discussing her past interest in writing fantasy novels. Claire gave a soft chuckle as if derisive of the prospect. In truth, Claire felt Mia’s potential was being wasted by writing such nonsense, but she didn’t say that.
Claire leaned back in her chair. Mia saw the black panties peeking out from beneath Claire's business skirt. Unnerved, Mia looked away quickly, feeling a flush rise to her cheeks. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, swallowing nervously as a knot formed in her gut.
“I just want someone to support my ambitions,” she said.
“And to be the perfect bodybuilder—is that what you want?”
Mia took a sip of her wine, trying to gather her thoughts. Memories flooded her mind, transporting her back to simpler times. She remembered curling up with a good book, getting lost in the pages as she explored faraway lands and met fascinating characters. She recalled lazy afternoons spent lounging in the park with her boyfriend, Jack. Life used to be so simple.
Her mother's voice rang loudly in her ears once again, demanding perfection and obedience above all else. Mia carried a weighty burden everywhere she went, suffocating her spirit and stifling her true self. She could hear her mother's words echoing like a mantra, urging her never to give up or lose sight of her ultimate goal. But at what cost? Was success worth sacrificing her identity and happiness?
Mia sighed deeply, closing her eyes for a brief moment.
"Absolutely. Being the best drives me," Mia lied smoothly, opening her eyes to meet Claire's piercing gaze. She could see the scepticism in her eyes, but Mia steeled herself against any further questioning. Her mother had drilled into her the importance of appearances and image, and Mia wouldn’t let Claire undermine that.
The conversation veered towards more practical matters as they discussed the logistics of their collaboration. Mia listened carefully, eager to impress Claire with her knowledge and expertise. She knew this opportunity could change everything for her, and she wasn't willing to jeopardise it by appearing weak or indecisive. But as the meeting drew to a close, Claire's demeanour changed. Mia felt her heart rate quicken as Claire leaned closer, her eyes fixed intently on Mia's. The tension thickened like a fog, making it difficult for either woman to breathe. Mia squirmed slightly in her seat again, her nerves fraying at the edges. She knew what was coming next but wasn't sure if she was ready.
"Before we sign anything official, there's something else I need to ask of you, Mia." Claire's voice was low and husky.
Mia's chest tightened.
"What is it?" she managed to choke out.
Claire smiled. "I want to see all of you, Mia. Everything. Before we commit ourselves fully to this project, I think it's important that we understand each other completely."
Mia felt her stomach twist painfully. This was it—the final test. She would earn Claire's trust and the coveted partnership if she passed. But failing meant losing everything she had worked so hard for.
“Simply put, I want to see what I’m investing in, what I’m helping to grow.”
Mia's throat tightened. With each swallow, a wave of nerves threatened to overwhelm her. Her mind raced, desperately searching for the right words, but they never came. Every muscle in her body tensed, and her breaths came in short, shallow gasps.
Claire leaned back in her chair again, her smile turning predatory. “I trust you know what to do. I want to see every inch of you and know who you are underneath all those layers.”
Mia stared down at her hands, trembling slightly. She couldn't believe Claire was asking her to bare it all, both physically and emotionally. She felt exposed already, vulnerable to the powerful woman sitting across from her. But then she considered the alternative- giving up her dreams and settling for mediocrity. She couldn't afford to fail now. She swallowed heavily, steeling herself.
Slowly, Mia stood up from the table, pulling her shirt over her head. She felt Claire's sharp intake of breath, and Mia's face flushed red. She avoided eye contact as she slipped out of her bra, revealing her bulky chest. A network of sinewy muscles defined Mia's pectorals rippled with the slightest movement, accentuating their impressive size and strength. The muscles swelled proudly as they reached towards her shoulders, perfectly sculpted and finely toned. Veins crisscrossed, adding to their rugged texture.
Mia's movements were deliberate as she reached down to unzip her pants, the fabric parting smoothly under her touch. She slid them down her legs, revealing her thighs and calves that flexed with each step, now standing before Claire in nothing but her lacy underwear.
As Claire's gaze travelled over Mia's body, it seemed to linger on every curve and contour, tracing the lines of her physique with an almost ravenous hunger. Mia couldn't help but feel a tinge of discomfort, the weight of Claire's scrutiny pressing against her skin like an unwelcome touch. Yet, she pushed aside those feelings, reminding herself of the bigger picture.
As Claire settled back into her chair, the tension in the room seemed to thicken, each passing moment heavy with anticipation. Mia's heart raced as she watched Claire's expression shift. It felt like time had slowed to a crawl, each second stretching out into an eternity as Mia held her breath, waiting for judgment. The only sound that permeated the air was the soft rhythm of their breathing. And then—
"You have talent, Mia.”
With a sudden urgency, Claire rose from her seat and stepped around the table until she stood directly before Mia. Their faces inches apart, Claire's gaze drifted slowly downward, studying every line and crevice of Mia's muscular form. There was no mistaking the desire burning behind her eyes; Claire wanted to touch Mia's flesh, to run her fingers along the rough ridges and smooth curves alike.
Without hesitation, she tentatively trailed her fingertips over Mia's bicep, marvelling at the power coiled beneath her touch. As she continued to explore, Mia felt her resolve wavering. Despite her initial reluctance, she responded to Claire's gentle caresses, relishing in the warmth spreading through her limbs. Soon enough, Claire's exploration became more confident, her touches becoming firmer and insistent as she moved lower still. Mia's skin prickled with goosebumps as Claire's hand travelled past her pecs and onto her abs, digging deep into the flesh as she searched for the most sensitive spots. Though Mia tried to keep her cool, her senses were heightening rapidly, and she was focused solely on Claire's touch.
As Claire's explorations intensified, Mia's body responded eagerly to her touch. The businesswoman traced her fingers over Mia's broad torso, marvelling at the rippling muscles that covered it. She ran her palm over Mia's chiselled abs, feeling the playful ridges, and pressed harder into the soft, warm flesh below. Mia's heart pounded in her ears as she struggled to maintain control, aware that she was exposing herself to someone else's desires.
But just when she thought she could no longer handle it, Claire made an offhanded remark that left Mia speechless. "You’re certainly bigger than my husband," she said, trailing a finger lightly over one of Mia's deltoids.
At first, Mia didn't know how to respond. Was this some sick joke? She looked at Claire, trying to gauge if there was any humour hidden behind her cold facade. But the businesswoman's expression remained impassive, seemingly unaware of her words’ impact on Mia.
Claire's hands drifted lower, settling on Mia's quads as she admired the intricate web of veins etched across them. Her fingers danced over the hard, solid muscles, marvelling at their firmness. As she explored deeper, she couldn't help but whisper in appreciation, "Your legs are simply magnificent."
She continued running her palms over Mia's strong calf muscles, tracing the well-defined outline of her Achilles tendon. Claire leaned closer, taking in the sight before her: Mia's powerful legs encased in black lace panties that hugged tightly to her shapely frame. Her fingers lingered on the inside of Mia's thighs, sliding higher and higher until finally reaching the juncture where leg met groin. A shiver ran down Mia's spine as Claire's hands brushed over her inner thigh. Her core tightened, and she bit her lip.
“Ooohhh! Seems like a bit of you enjoys this,” Claire cooed.
Mia hesitated, unsure whether to withdraw or give in to Claire's advances. Before arguing with her mother, she knew this wasn't what she had initially intended, but something about Claire's touch sent electric jolts through her body. She closed her eyes and let out a quiet moan as Claire's hands began to massage her inner thighs.
Claire smirked as she noticed Mia's reaction. She traced her fingers over Mia's pubic bone, teasing the edge of her mound through her delicate lace underwear. Mia gasped and opened her eyes, meeting Claire's gaze once again. This time, there was no uncertainty in her look - instead, it was pure, undiluted lust.
As Claire's fingers traversed further south, Mia's nerves reached an all-time high. She tensed up, unsure of what would come next. But Claire seemed determined to find out, and without warning, she grabbed Mia's pussy rather forcefully, pressing her thumb against her clit. Claire's breathing was hot and hard. “Well, you’re certainly thick down there, girl.”
Claire grinned, enjoying Mia's submission. She could see the hunger in her eyes, the way her lips parted as she breathed heavily. Mia's body trembled, her breath coming in short, sharp gasps. Her face twisted and contorted in pleasure and pain. It was clear that Mia craved release, and Claire was happy to oblige—in time.
Claire leaned closer to Mia, her gaze locked onto hers as she cupped Mia's chin gently with two fingers. With a soft smile, she bent down and nibbled sensuously on Mia's earlobe. Mia felt her entire being succumb to Claire as she whispered intimately into her ear, "I want you to trust me, Mia.”
Mia yielded to Claire without hesitation, allowing her to push her back onto the bed. She watched Claire slowly remove her blouse, revealing her flawlessly toned arms and shoulders. The businesswoman's bra came off next, leaving her breasts exposed, her nipples standing erect from the excitement. With a flicker of desire in her eye, Claire started removing her skirt, unveiling her long, slender legs. She paused briefly, looking directly into Mia's eyes, her fingers trailing upwards along her thighs.
Claire stepped between Mia's legs. Mia lay motionless, her chest heaving with each laboured breath she took. She watched as Claire lowered herself towards her. Claire's tongue snaked out without warning, tracing lazy circles around Mia's right kneecap. Mia squirmed slightly, feeling her skin prickle with goosebumps. Claire chuckled softly.
"Beautiful," she purred, her voice low and husky.
Her hands moved tentatively up Mia's thighs, tracing the bulging muscles with reverent fingers. Mia's breath hitched as Claire's mouth reached the tender flesh behind her knees. She groaned, arching her hips upwards as Claire worked her way up Mia's legs, occasionally pausing to run her tongue over the thick, protruding growths born from countless hours in the gym. Mia writhed beneath her, her body wracked with pleasure.
After thoroughly satisfying herself with Mia's lower half, Claire moved her attention upward, eagerly devouring every curve and crevice. Starting at the base of Mia's neck, Claire massaged firmly, working her way down Mia's shoulders. Every muscle twitched and rippled under her fingers. Claire marvelled at how perfectly sculpted they were, so symmetrical that they almost defied belief.
Mia's head tilted to one side, her expression curious but somewhat embarrassed.
Encouraged by Mia's response, Claire pushed even farther, moving her hand across Mia's collarbone and toward her pectoral muscles. Mia's heart jumped as soon as her fingertips touched the smooth flesh. She knew what would happen now; the anticipation was like steam trapped in a kettle.
Claire leaned forward, placing gentle kisses across Mia's left pectoral, then asked, "Would you mind flexing them for me? I want to…appreciate them more fully."
Mia, her cheeks flushing pink, complied. Following a preparatory breath, Mia flexed her pecs. Claire's fingers caressed them, and she gritted her teeth. Claire continued to stroke and caress, coaxing every last flex and ripple Mia could offer.

Claire's touch lingered on Mia's chest. Mia couldn't believe how turned on she was becoming by another woman's touch. It was as if the fear and doubt had melted away. As Claire leaned back whilst straddling Mia’s chest and admired her muscular frame, she couldn't help but wonder about something.
"Mia, have you ever had sex with another woman?" Claire asked softly, her eyes never leaving Mia's body, gently squeezing her biceps.
Mia hesitated.
Claire smirked. “I just thought maybe..."
Before Claire could finish, Mia interrupted. "Maybe what?
“Well, there’s always a first time for everything. Right?”
As Claire's words hung unanswered, Mia felt confused and excited. She had never considered exploring her sexuality with another woman before, but something about Claire made her feel alive. Without overthinking about it, she nodded her agreement.
Claire's smile widened. She leaned down and pressed her lips against Mia's. Their tongues danced together hungrily, each woman revelling in the other's taste. Slowly, Claire pulled away, her eyes still locked on Mia's. Mia swallowed nervously, her heart racing faster than ever before. But deep inside, she knew she wanted this.
Claire positioned herself above Mia's waist, her legs spread wide apart. Her wet folds brushed against Mia's abdomen. Claire relished in the sensation, her moans muffling Mia's gasps as their bodies entangled. Mia felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness coursing through her veins. This was new territory for her, and she wasn't sure whether she was ready. However, as Claire's movements became more urgent, all doubts faded.
Their limbs twisted and intertwined, creating an erotic symphony of sweat-soaked sheets and tangled hair. Claire clung tightly to Mia's muscular form, breathing heavily as she ground her pelvis into hers. They kissed deeply and passionately, tasting the salty sweat on each other's lips. Mia felt alive and free, liberated from her mother’s overbearing expectations. For once, she allowed herself to indulge in pure, unadulterated pleasure, letting go of inhibitions and succumbing entirely to the raw intensity.
As Claire continued to grind, she could feel her release building. The heat between them intensified, and soon enough, she let out a cry as her body convulsed with pleasure. Mia followed suit moments later, her entire body wracked with spasms as she cried out. They lay there, panting and sweating, as the aftershocks subsided.
Claire opened her eyes to look at Mia. She leaned forward and brushed her fingertips along Mia's cheekbone, whispering, "You are beautiful."
Mia smiled weakly, feeling overwhelmed by emotion. "So are you," she replied…
Mia stared intently at the contract laid out before her. Meanwhile, Claire sat beside her, sipping a glass of red wine and running her foot idly up and down Mia's thigh. Mia tried not to notice the blatant flirtation, focusing instead on the practicalities of their arrangement. Claire's gaze wandered up and down Mia's physique, noting every curve and bulge. There was no denying she looked good - perhaps better than any man she had ever dated.

Mia took a deep breath and scrutinised the document closely, trying to weigh the potential consequences. "What happens if I lose the competition tomorrow?" she asked hesitantly.
Claire smirked and set down her glass. "If you were to lose tomorrow, it wouldn't be the world’s end. It might work in your favour. With my resources behind you, you'll have everything you need to return even stronger next year. You won't have to start from scratch or worry about funding. It will allow you to focus solely on training and improving your performance."
“And if I win?"
Claire's face lit up. "Oh, that's a whole different story. If you win, then the sky's the limit for you. Your name will be recognised worldwide, and doors will open to you.”
“And my mother?”
Claire's expression softened slightly as she placed a hand over Mia's. "Your mother will be financially supported as well— for as long as you are part of the program.”
Mia knew working with Claire would give her the freedom she craved, free from her mother's suffocating presence. As Claire spoke, Mia found herself daydreaming about the future. In her mind's eye, she saw herself standing tall and proud onstage, muscles rippling as the crowd roared. It all seemed perfect.
“But what do you get out of this?” Mia questioned.
Claire paused momentarily, taking a sip of her wine before responding. "I'm going to level with you, Mia. While you may benefit greatly from our partnership, I will, too. You’re talented; that talent will capture everyone's attention when they see you on stage tomorrow. Winning this contest will propel you into superstardom, and it’ll make me rich.”
Mia raised an eyebrow, surprised by Claire's candour. "Is that all? All this for money?”
"No, Mia. That's just the surface. We’ll use the money to invest in the project I mentioned to your mother. The project you agreed to be part of. We’ll be using the money to improve the project and to improve you. To make you even better each time you hit the stage. You said you want to be the perfect bodybuilder. In time, you can be more than that.”
Mia stared at the contract. This decision would change the course of her life forever. On one hand, she stood to gain financial security, access to top-notch equipment and trainers, and international recognition. But on the other hand, she couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something didn't sit right. Her gut told her that signing this contract meant giving away too much control.
Mia hesitated for a few seconds longer, her fingers tracing the edges of the paper. She knew what her mother would say—that she should trust Claire and that this was an opportunity she couldn't pass up. But a part of her still baulked at the idea of being controlled by someone else. Mia could be trading her mother for someone potentially more controlling.
In the end, however, the allure proved too strong. Mia signed her name at the bottom of the page, her hand shaking slightly.
Claire's smile widened. "Welcome aboard! Now, let's celebrate! I think we deserve another drink or two."
Claire reached for the bottle of wine. She poured the crimson liquid into two crystal glasses, filling them nearly to the rim. With a satisfied sigh, Claire handed one of the glasses to Mia.
“Now, remember: it doesn't matter if you lose tomorrow, Mia. You’re already a winner.”
Mia and Claire clinked their glasses together. Something about Claire fascinated and intimidated Mia, something beyond the primal sexuality. Maybe it was the sheer force of her confidence and ambition, or it was simply that she represented a new challenge for Mia. Either way, Mia sensed their relationship would be…complex.
For now, though, Mia allowed herself to enjoy the moment. She savoured the wine, listening to Claire's voice as she talked animatedly about her plans and goals for Mia. Outside, the exhibition centre buzzed as final preparations for the Miss Mass contest were underway….
Mia woke up early the following morning, feeling excited, nervous, powerful, confident, and apprehensive. Today was the big day. She got ready, tanned, and pumped up, wearing a cute sequined bikini her mother personally made for her. After last night's conversation with Claire, Mia wasn't sure how things would play out.
Backstage, she noticed the crowds gathering outside, filing into their seats. Fans from far and wide had come to witness the Miss Mass contest spectacle. They chanted slogans and waved placards bearing images of their favourite bodybuilder. Mia felt a chill run down her spine as she realised the event’s enormity. This wasn’t what she had built up in her head. It was bigger, grander.
Mia couldn't help stealing glances at the other women competing alongside her. Each one was lean, bulging, and rippling under the fluorescent lights. Some sported short, spikey hair, others long, flowing locks, but they all shared a fierce intensity in their gaze. Mia could feel the tension mounting. Her breathing quickened, her palms slick with sweat, as she prepared mentally. She pushed aside any doubts or fears—the best she could.
Linda approached Mia with a determined stride. Mia tried to avoid eye contact, fidgeting nervously with the hem of her bikini bottoms. She didn't want her mother to distract her now; too many variables were at play. But Linda seemed unstoppable, her voice ringing out through the chaos.
"Hey, baby girl," she said warmly, kissing Mia's cheek. "How are you holding up?"
Mia forced a smile, trying to mask the anxiety. “I'm good.”
“I take it things went well with Claire last night? You didn’t come back to our room.”
Mia hesitated for a beat, unsure whether to divulge…everything. Finally, she took a deep breath and spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “Don’t worry, I signed the deal. Claire said winning this contest would be a bonus.”
Linda nodded. “I was in the toilets earlier. They had those annoying blue lights,” Linda commented.
“What do you mean?”
Mia watched Linda open her handbag sneakily. Mia peered inside, and her eyes turned wide as saucers when she saw the syringe and a bottle of Anavar. Was her mother being serious right now, walking around backstage with steroids casually stashed in her handbag? Mia pulled her mother aside.
“What the fuck are you doing? You know I can get disqualified.”

Linda smirked at Mia's concern, rolling her eyes as she tucked away the syringe and Anavar underneath her purse. “Oh, please. Everyone here’s on gear. That blonde in the corner? You honestly think that jaw of hers is natural? Besides, what’s one more shot after already taking dozens?”
As Linda sneakily slipped the needle into Mia's arm, she winced slightly at the sharp prick of pain. The steroid solution flowed slowly into her bloodstream. She closed her eyes, trying to block out the noise and chaos around them. In this quiet moment, she heard only her ragged breathing and her mother's soft, indecipherable murmurings. When she opened her eyes again, Linda smiled at her encouragingly.
Linda leaned in close and pressed her lips against Mia's. The sudden intimacy between them took Mia aback, but then she realised that this wasn't just any ordinary kiss - it was loaded with ulterior motives. Linda's tongue snaked its way past Mia's teeth, probing the depths of her mouth. For a brief moment, Mia felt violated by the taboo nature of their encounter. Eventually, it was Linda who pulled free.
“Now go out there and win me that damned trophy.”
As Linda broke away, Mia stumbled backwards, clutching at her elbow where the syringe had been inserted. She looked at her mother with disgust and fear, leaving a bitter taste in Mia's mouth, making her stomach twist uncomfortably.
Mia moved to make her way onto the stage, her high heels echoing in the silence that followed Linda's departure. As she walked, her thoughts were consumed by conflicting emotions: anger at her mother's possession, guilt over signing the contract with Claire, and doubt over whether she genuinely wanted this life. Yet despite these struggles, Mia knew she couldn't afford to let them interfere with her performance. Not when she was so close to potentially winning.
As Mia stepped onto the brightly lit stage alongside the other competitors, her heart pounding in her chest, Linda's final instructions reverberated relentlessly within her mind.
Now go out there and win me that damned trophy.
Those words became an obsessive mantra, consuming every thought and action she made. With each step across the polished wooden boards, she heard her mother's command ringing in her ears like a gong. Winning was no longer merely a personal goal for Mia; it was a debt owed to her mother.
Now go out there and win me that damned trophy.
The spotlight shone down on Mia as she twirled and arched her body, showcasing every sculpted curve and rippling muscle. The stage beneath her feet was slick from the sweat dripping off her skin, but she paid it no heed. She held her pose, arms extended towards the ceiling as if reaching for something beyond her grasp. Before her, the audience roared in approval. It was a sound she craved more than anything else in the world. From the corner of her eye, Mia caught sight of Claire in the judges’ panel. Their eyes met briefly, which both excited and terrified her. Claire had kept her involvement as a judge a tightly kept secret.
Linda watched Mia from behind the curtain. Her moves seemed choreographed perfectly, each muscle popping and pulsating under the harsh stage lights. Linda could not help but feel pride mixed with arousal. Watching Mia perform filled Linda with a strange, almost primal sense of pleasure. Her fingers trailed absentmindedly over the syringe still hidden in her bag. A small smile spread across her face.
Her gaze shifted back to Mia, and she observed the fluidity of her movements, the graceful arch of her spine, and the effortless lift of her limbs. Linda felt a pang of envy wash over her as she recalled how different life was before marriage and then when Mia was raised. Linda let out a low growl of satisfaction as Mia struck another pose. She was flawless, unstoppable. All that remained was for the judges to recognise her talent.
Mia continued to wow the audience. Her muscles bulged and contracted beneath her glistening tan skin, and she exuded an air of confidence and self-assurance that commanded attention. Every time she glanced up at the judges, she saw them nod approvingly, signalling their appreciation for her artistry. But amidst all this praise, Mia couldn't shake off the unease deep inside her. There was a nagging voice in her head, reminding her of the price she'd paid to be here today.
And then, suddenly, she saw her mother standing in the shadows, watching her intently. Linda's intense stare sent chills down Mia's spine, and for a split second, she froze mid-movement. Was she proud or disappointed? Mia tried to ignore Linda's presence, forcing herself to focus. But Linda's image haunted her, lurking in the corners of her vision like a dark cloud hovering above her.
The music stopped as Mia finished her routine, and the crowd fell silent. She stood there, breathing heavily, waiting for the judges to deliver their verdict. Time slowed down, stretching into an agonising eternity. Mia's nerves frayed, her hands trembled, and her heart raced like it was about to burst. What if they didn't see what she saw? She closed her eyes, trying to block out the doubts in her mind. Mia knew this was bigger than herself now. Mia straightened her posture, squaring her shoulders, and prepared herself mentally. She would wait until the end before allowing herself to hope or despair.
Before long, Mia lost track of time completely. Her mind wandered, playing tricks on her. She pictured herself losing, imagining Linda’s look of disappointment. And then, the judges’ faces turned abruptly, with Claire’s stern…
As Mia walked through the door of her home, Linda's piercing gaze immediately zeroed in on her. Without uttering a word, Linda followed Mia's line of sight to the fireplace mantelpiece, where she placed the gleaming gold Miss Mass contest trophy. Pride swelled in Linda's chest as she saw her daughter's hard work paying off. This wasn't just any ordinary trophy - it represented everything they had worked for together: blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifice. Mia, too, was elated as she carefully placed the trophy. For Mia, the physical toll was worth it—even the manipulation from her mother.
Mia stared intently at the sparkling trophy nestled firmly between two bouquets of fresh flowers. As she ran her fingertips along its smooth surface, her memories of her victory flashed. Mia let out a sigh of contentment, feeling fulfilled by the recognition. From behind, Linda took in the sight of her daughter's muscular form. Once petite and delicate, her body was now something to behold. Linda's gaze settled on Mia's striated shoulders, admiring how they looked under the soft light filtering through the window. She felt her pulse quicken, and her breath grew shallow as she imagined those muscles would ripple after even more growth. Linda moved closer, relishing the chance to run her fingers along Mia's flesh, to bask in the glow of her daughter's achievements.
“Well done.” Linda reached out and gently touched one of Mia's rippling shoulders, tracing the contours of the muscle with her thumb. At that moment, Linda's hand lingered for a few seconds longer than usual, conveying a deeper meaning. Mia shivered slightly. Mia wondered whether her mother was expressing jealousy or something else. Whatever the reason, Linda finally withdrew her hand. “One trophy down. Countless more to earn. Can’t wait until I get ‘em.”
"Until you get them? What the hell do you mean by that?" Mia's tone was firm, edged with disbelief, as she sought clarification from her mother. The words hung, unanswered. She couldn't fathom her mother's insinuation. "I'm the one who put in all the work, the sacrifices."
Linda hesitated for a moment before speaking again. Mia could sense the tension building between them. Linda turned to face her daughter fully. "All these months, I've watched you train tirelessly, day in and day out. You're talented, no doubt about that. But you would never have made it this far without my guidance.”
Linda's expression shifted, turning cold. "You know very well that your physique wouldn't be nearly as impressive as it is if not for the steroids I had you take."
Mia's cheeks burned red, feeling betrayed.
Linda continued, leaning forward ominously, "I think this trophy belongs to me more than it does you. All the training, dieting, and persuasion required to convince you to turn to bodybuilding, to use those drugs... That takes real talent, doesn't it?”
Mia recoiled, appalled by her mother's audacity. How could her mother say such things? “You’re a fucking psychopath.”
Linda narrowed her eyes and smirked. "I am. But I need to remind you of the results we achieved together. Your winning of the Miss Mass is proof it has its place. I helped push you beyond your limits, forcing you to realise your true potential. My obsession with control and perfectionism helped mould you into the winner you are today."
With her hands still shaking from anger and betrayal, Mia watched in horror as her mother stepped towards her, reaching out to claim the trophy. Linda's eyes glinted with a fierce intensity as she snatched it up.
"This isn't over yet," she hissed, her voice low and menacing. "There will be many more victories like this, Mia. Many more. Because I want you to grow even stronger, even more powerful than you already are. Claire will help with that. Think of all the records you could break, all the titles you could win!”
As Linda clutched the trophy tightly, Mia could see the sparkle in her eye—an almost fanatical zeal. Her heart raced with conflicting emotions—shock and disgust, but also an undeniably thrilling rush that came with being so close to greatness. It was a heady mix of pride and fear, fueled by the knowledge that others were striving for similar accolades.
It wasn't just about the thrill of victory anymore; it was about proving to herself and everyone around her that Mia could achieve anything she wanted. With Claire's expertise guiding her every step of the way, Mia could do that. A small part of her soul lit up with a perverse excitement.
Then came the soft, telling grin.