Finding Love

CHAPTER 12

Problems Emerge

After that night Ruth saw a change in Thomas. The man who she thought was a confident and skilled entrepreneur was becoming more possessive and easily triggered. Ruth started to blame herself and wondered how she missed it all. Thomas had swept her off her feet but she did not realize it was not all him. It was to reel her end. She felt as if she should have been connected more to the holy spirit before getting so caught up in this relationship that may of no been right for her all along. She kept it for a long time from Serenity and Malissa who thought everything was alright. Thomas was a chief manipulator and charmer. Ruth felt sometimes things were her fault because he was so convincing that she was at fault. A few months passed and Ruth was going out to spend some time with her friends Serenity and Malissa. She and Thomas would spend time together at her apartment and his. Two weeks ago he asked her to marry him. Ruth said yes and wondered if she was doing the right thing. It sometimes seemed he was doing everything to hold onto her as if he was insecure or had something to hide. 

"Where are you going? What time are you returning?" he asked looking at her outfit with displeasure. "Why all the questions?" Ruth asked as she fixed her make-up. "Are you sure you should wear this dress? You have been looking chunky these days and need to get back into your workouts," he continued. Ruth swallowed stunned by his wisecrack about her weight. He was very blunt these days and insensitive. "My dress is fine," Ruth said putting on a jacket over her beautiful blue dress. "I am still waiting for a time. Don't flirt with strangers, " he commanded not allowing her to leave out the door. "Thomas please move out of the way," she begged. He moved slowly and roared, "Don't forget you are my fiance."

Ruth completely ignored what just happened and tuned out her problems with Thomas. Tonight was about reconnecting with her friends and basking in their happiness. She was not going to allow Thomas to make her burdened tonight.

Reconnecting with Friends

Serenity and Malissa were elated when Ruth walked in. "Hey girl," Serenity smiled. "We could not start without you," Malissa smiled. Ruth hugged her friends and sat at the dinner table. "Malissa, I am so happy you came into town for a few days," Ruth announced admiring her friend who was glowing. "Of course, I have to see my sisters," she announced. "What's new with you and your husband?" Serenity asked. "Do tell," Serenity smiled. "We are expecting," Malissa said enthusiastically. Both Ruth and Serenity started to cry and Malissa joined in. "Guys, you are going to cause me to get so emotional," Malissa said choking up. "I am so happy for you," Ruth announced. "This is fantastic," Serenity added. " I have some news too," Serenity said still crying from Malissa's news.  "Steven and I are getting married," she continued. 

Ruth and Malissa hugged her and said, "Congratulations."  "This is awesome. Both of my friends are engaged. I am so happy for you both," Malissa cried. Ruth smiled, "How beautiful the future Mrs. Murray,"  she teased Serenity. How could she tell her friends Thomas was verbally abusive and possessive? Everyone thought their relationship was perfect. At the moment she wanted to simply be happy for her friends. 

The Cheating Continues

Joanna looked at Thomas wondering why she was giving herself to a man who did not want a future with her. He called her about two hours ago. Her got told her Ruth must have gone out and he was upset about it. "Why are you with her?" Joanna boldly asked. "I do not have to explain myself to you," he said. "This arrangement is not benefiting me. You need to put your priorities in order," Joanna said putting on her robe. "Joanna, I told you months ago this was for pleasure and gratification. I told you there are no strings attached. Do not change the game," he said getting dressed. Do not take your frustrations out on me. It's not my fault your fiance does not put out," Ruth said standing by the hotel window. "My relationship is not your concern. This is for fulfillment until I get married," he said coldly. 

"Does she know you are a narcissist, controlling freak? Ruth is too good for you," Joanna said not caring anymore. "But yet you enjoy sleeping with me," he laughed and mocked. "Joanna, don't blame me if you are catching feelings. You know I get what I want always. If this is becoming too much for you, walk away. I can find another woman who would love to be in your position," he grunted and smirked authoritatively. He left and slammed the door. Joanna screamed and cried out when he was out the door. Joanna finally realized she could never make Thomas love her.