Chapter 7: Unveiling the Enigma

As the library's closing announcement echoed through the stacks, Ethan reluctantly closed the book he had been engrossed in. Despite his disappointment in not finding concrete answers, a sense of accomplishment swelled within him. His wish for adaptation had not only granted him increased intelligence and reading speed but also a newfound determination to unravel the mysteries that had consumed him.

Leaving the library, Ethan made his way home, the evening sun casting long shadows across the streets. His mind buzzed with questions and possibilities, each one leading him closer to understanding the enigma of the wishes granted by the mysterious force.

Upon arriving home, Ethan found his mom in the kitchen preparing dinner. "Hey, Mom," he called out, "I'm thinking of heading to the gym to get a workout in. Do you mind if I borrow some money for a membership?"

His mom turned from the stove, a concerned look on her face. "Oh, Ethan, I don't know if it's safe for you to go to the gym alone," she said, worry creasing her brow. "You're still so young, and it's getting late."

Ethan's heart sank at his mom's reluctance, but he knew he had to convince her. "But Mom," he pleaded, "I really want to start being more active. And Dad said he'd take me to the gym with him. Please, can I go?"

His mom hesitated, torn between her concern for Ethan's safety and her desire to support his interests. Finally, after a moment's deliberation, she sighed and nodded. "Okay, Ethan," she relented. "But you have to promise me you'll stick close to your dad and be careful, alright?"

Ethan's face lit up with gratitude. "I promise, Mom," he said eagerly. "Thanks!"

That evening, Ethan's dad arrived home from work, and Ethan wasted no time in sharing his plans. Excitedly, he told his dad about his desire to join the gym and his mom's reluctant approval.

His dad listened attentively, a proud smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Well, buddy," he said, ruffling Ethan's hair, "I think that sounds like a great idea. Let's go get you signed up."

With his dad by his side, Ethan felt a surge of confidence as they made their way to the gym together. Arriving at the front desk, Ethan beamed as he explained his intentions to the receptionist. With his dad's support, he felt like he could conquer anything.

After sorting out the membership details, Ethan and his dad explored the gym together, his excitement growing with each new discovery. As they headed to the weights section, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of pride knowing that he was taking steps to improve himself both physically and mentally.

Grabbing a pair of 10-pound dumbbells, Ethan hesitated for a moment. It was the heaviest weight he had ever attempted, and he wasn't sure if he could handle it. But with determination burning in his heart, he took a deep breath and began his workout.

At first, the weight felt impossibly heavy in his hands. Ethan struggled to lift it even once, his muscles straining with the effort. But he refused to give up. With each repetition, he pushed himself harder, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he fought to overcome the resistance.

And then, something remarkable happened. With each rep, Ethan felt the weight grow lighter in his hands. It was as if his muscles were adapting to the challenge, becoming stronger and more resilient with each passing moment. Before long, he was able to lift the 10-pound dumbbells with ease, his movements fluid and controlled.

His dad watched with pride as Ethan powered through his workout, a smile playing on his lips. He could see the determination in Ethan's eyes, the fire burning bright within him. And as Ethan continued to lift, his dad knew that his son was capable of achieving anything he set his mind to.

As the evening drew to a close and Ethan's workout came to an end, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment wash over him. Though he had started the day with uncertainty and doubt, he had emerged stronger and more determined than ever before. And as he headed home with his dad by his side, Ethan knew that this was only the beginning of his journey to becoming the best version of himself.