THE COLD, HARD GAZE NEVER CEASES.  It's not intimidating anymore, just menacing.  Always judging me: frail and weak, knowing I have no interest in our daily duel.

It's of my own doing.  I jammed her in the bathroom door so I couldn't get away, couldn't weasel out.  Any other place and... outta sight, outta mind.

She stands and waits, and I usually obey by hauling myself up and down 'till exhaustion sets in.

There are rewards.  I can do 1-2 more when my body weight is lighter; I feel strong when I sprint; I can still bunny hop when I need to; and I reckon it helps with the surfing.

Most mornings she's evil and cold,
occasionally encouraging,
that's why I love her.

_____