Strangers, Again

I'm a Mess

I'm a Mess by Ed Sheeran

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Y/N's POV

I didn't think I would have to look at her again. Her eyes used to bring me comfort, but as I stood in front of her, it brought me nothing but pure heartache. I couldn't see myself in them anymore. The future I envisioned for the two of us were gone. What was once vibrant and warm, now felt cold and lifeless. It feels suffocating being around her and I hated every second of it. So, I said what had to be said. I walked away from her like what I should've done from the beginning. She made me feel powerless like I never mattered. It took me three years to realize that if someone truly loved you with all of their heart, they wouldn't shatter it like it was the easiest thing to do.

The hours dragged, but work was finally coming to an end. I bid my goodbyes before I drove away from the building. I shouldn't be mindlessly driving my motorcycle, but here I am. Despite the strong front I had to put up in order to escape her reach, I still found myself crumbling. I didn't want to think about everything we had and the memories that came with it, but it's coming back to me like it never left. It's unfair that I spent three years picking myself up, and the second I came back to a place I never thought I would set foot again, my progress came crashing down.

As I waited for the light to turn green, I diverted my attention to my right and saw Ether's Bagel Shop. I tightened my grip on the handle bar, the unpleasant emotions came flooding back to me. I'm reminded of how great things were and it made me feel enraged. Everything I thought was pure and genuine turned out to be a lie. I hated myself for pouring everything I have in me, only to be left with nothing but a shattered heart. All of her words and broken promises were meaningless. She broke me and I hated her for it.

I parked my bike in front of the club, eager to see one of the few people I look forward to spending my time with. Rosie still works at the club even after all of these years. She became the co-owner for the club next to Matthews. A lot happened while I was gone, and clearly we have a lot to catch up on.

When I entered the building, there weren't a lot of people around, considering that it's not open yet. A few of the staff members still recognized me so they let me in. I greeted and spoke to a few of them. It was refreshing to know that a handful of people I've grown to love while I was working here were still here. I also noticed a few changes to the interior of the club, and everything looks better. New and improved. I knocked sternly against the door of her office and received no answer. As impatient as I am, I turned the knob and let myself in.

Her office was empty, and it looks like she already left. I probably should've texted her that I was coming, let alone I'm back, but I wanted to surprise her. Just as I was about to leave, the door swung open.

"Oh my god, Y/N?" Rosie asked as she pulled me in a tight embrace. "Is it actually you? Am I dreaming? Are you actually back?" Her question came in like wildfire but her excitement brought me joy.

"I can't breathe. You're hugging me way too tight, bitch." I chuckled as she finally released me. "It's been a while."

Rosie gave my arm a playful punch, "Too fucking long. Why would you leave me without saying goodbye? That was mean."

"Damn, don't be hostile now." I rubbed my arm like it hurt. "I'm sorry for leaving so sudden, but I'm here now."

"For good?"

"No." I said sternly. "I'm only here for six months because of my job."

"Six months? That's way too short." She scoffed. "I guess, I have to spend as much with you as possible. We have a lot to catch up on, so are you down to go to dinner with me?"