Annie Carlson sits awkwardly on a yoga mat, her Under Armour sneakers peeking from beneath her stretched-out legs. Her muscles feel like iron bars, refusing to yield as she attempts to reach for her toes.

Sarah, a confident and energetic classmate, walks in, her ponytail swinging rhythmically with each step. "Hey, Annie, need some help?" Annie looks up, relief washing over her face.

Sarah demonstrates a series of gentle stretches, her movements fluid and graceful. Annie follows along, her initial stiffness gradually easing. "Try to breathe deeply and relax," Sarah advises with a reassuring smile.

Annie begins to feel her muscles loosening, each stretch becoming less of a struggle. "This feels amazing," she admits, a hint of surprise in her voice.

"You did great, Annie," Sarah praises, her eyes sparkling with encouragement. Annie grins back, feeling a newfound sense of flexibility and gratitude.

As they leave the gym, Annie feels a lightness in her step, a testament to the power of friendship and a good stretch. "Thanks, Sarah. I couldn't have done it without you," Annie says, her voice filled with warmth.