Build
Build took a deep breath, feeling grateful that Bible encouraged him to meet with Blue. Maybe he was right—Build needed answers, closure, something that could allow him to forgive and move forward.
As he entered the booth, Blue looked thrilled to see him, grinning from ear to ear. But Build's expression remained neutral; he didn't greet him, didn't smile back.
Sitting down across from him, Build felt only a strange, detached calm. He could remember a time when he'd looked at Blue with love, but now, he felt nothing.
"I'm only here to hear your explanation," Build began.
"Nothing else. I need closure, to forgive you. I don't want to carry hatred for the rest of my life."
Blue shifted, looking visibly nervous.
"I... I'm sorry for leaving without a word," he stammered.
"Back then, I was in a relationship. I had a girlfriend—three years. We were long-distance, and you... you were there. I had real feelings for you, Build. They were true."
Build's heart sank.
The truth was worse than he'd imagined. He'd been nothing more than the "other man," a TEMPORARY replacement for someone who was absent.
He sighed, unable to find words for the hurt and anger swirling within him.
"The day I left you," Blue continued, "was the day she came back. I couldn't contact you because I was with her, but we broke up. I realized it's you I love, Build. I want you back."
The words stung, and Build's eyes narrowed in disgust. The ache he'd felt just moments ago now transformed into a deep loathing.
"You used me to fill her absence," Build replied, his voice ice-cold. "Forget what I said about forgiveness. I don't think you deserve it. And for certain, I don't love you anymore. I was naive, but I don't feel anything for you now—except hatred."
He stood abruptly, his hands clenched.
"BuiBui, please," Blue begged, reaching out to grab his wrist.
"Don't. Don't touch me," Build snapped, wrenching his hand away.
"I'll make it right, I swear. There's no one else now. It's only you." Blue reached out again, his grip tighter this time.
"Stop it. Don't make a scene," Build warned, pain flashing across his face as Blue held his wrist too forcefully.
"Look, I'm apologizing! Isn't this what you wanted?" Blue insisted, his hold unyielding.
"Ouch! Blue, you're hurting me!" Build gasped, his eyes clenched in pain.
Then a familiar voice cut through the tension.
