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Inside the gym foyer on a bright afternoon, Gym Manager stands blocking the doorway, looking regretful. Hercules, by the entrance mat, frowns and pleads, hands slightly raised, fluorescent lights reflecting off workout posters behind them.
"Hercules, you can't come in," said the gym manager sadly. Hercules frowned, "But why?" "Riley said you broke the rules," the manager replied. Hercules sighed, feeling sad. "But I didn't!" Hercules whispered. He missed his favorite gym already.
On the sunny sidewalk outside the gym entrance, Hercules kneels and smiles softly as John Jr wraps tiny arms around his neck. Warm midday light casts gentle shadows on the brick wall and closed glass doors behind them.
John Jr toddled up and hugged Hercules. "Don't be sad, Herc," he said. Hercules smiled at the tiny friend. "Thanks, John Jr," he replied softly. "I have an idea to cheer you up!" John Jr said excitedly. Hercules was curious about the plan.
Late-afternoon sunlight bathes the concrete steps of the locked gym, where Hercules and John Jr sit side-by-side, heads close together, grinning. A crumpled notepad lies between them, capturing their whispered prank ideas.
"Let's have fun without Riley," John Jr giggled. Hercules nodded, "That's a smart idea." The two sat down and whispered about funny pranks. "Revenge by smiles!" John Jr cheered. Hercules laughed for the first time all day. Their plan was simply to have fun.
Outside a small, brightly painted children's gym on a clear morning, John Jr stands forward, finger pointing proudly at the rainbow sign. Behind him, Hercules looks hopeful, hand on his chest, sunlight gleaming off colorful window murals.
"Herc, I know a place!" John Jr said, pointing. They walked to John Jr's special gym, colorful and bright. "Wow, can I join?" Hercules asked. "Of course!" John Jr replied proudly. Hercules felt hopeful again. They entered, ready for fun.
Inside the vibrant indoor gym under bright overhead LEDs, Hercules strains on a bench press, smiling, barbell hovering above his chest. Beside the bench, John Jr stands on a step-stool, arms ready, cheering with an enthusiastic grin.
Hercules lifted weights, and John Jr spotted him carefully. "One more, Herc!" John Jr cheered. "You’re the best coach," Hercules said, grinning. Together, they laughed and high-fived after each lift. Everyone at the gym smiled at their friendship. Hercules felt strong and happy.
In a bustling indoor arena lit by midday spotlights, Hercules stands at the registration table, pen poised, uncertain expression. John Jr, beside him, gives a confident thumbs-up, while colorful competition banners flutter above excited spectators in bleachers.
"Hercules, sign up for the contest!" John Jr encouraged. Hercules hesitated, "Do you think I can win?" "I believe in you!" John Jr said firmly. Excited, Hercules registered for the contest. The day arrived with lots of cheering. Hercules felt ready with John Jr by his side.
Under bright stage lights inside the arena, Hercules raises a gold medal high, beaming triumphantly. John Jr stands at his side clapping vigorously; confetti drifts over them while cheering spectators blur in the background.
Hercules lifted the heaviest weight with a mighty cheer. The crowd clapped, "Go, Hercules!" John Jr clapped louder than anyone. "You won!" he cried happily. Hercules beamed as he got his gold medal. It was a moment to remember forever.
Morning sunlight streams through a cozy kitchen, illuminating Hercules holding a newspaper with his photo and shining medal. Seated on the counter, John Jr laughs as Hercules hugs him, cereal boxes and a steaming mug nearby.
The newspaper printed a big photo: Hercules smiling proudly, medal shining. "Look, you’re famous!" John Jr pointed and laughed. Hercules hugged him, "Thanks, buddy." Far away, Riley saw the picture and pouted. But Hercules just enjoyed his new friends and gym. Happiness was the best reward.
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