Into deception

Silver linings

📚

As the car comes to a stop, Max and Ray get out, walking straight into the lobby. Nicholas takes his sweet time for some reason, waiting patiently by the open door, seemingly waiting for me to step out.

"You know you don't have to open doors for me anymore, right?"

I watch him sigh, leaning against it even though I've already stepped through.

"As long as I have arms, Mia, they'll carry on opening every door you come across."

He says it while hovering far too close to me.

I stay stuck, unable to move, as though the floor has decided to hold me there.

Until Himiko yells his name.

I blink.

My eyes flutter, reality rushing back into me all at once, and I take a step away.

His eyes instantly follow my retreat, like he's developed a fresh hatred for the very concept of distance.

"Goodnight, Nicholas."

I whisper it gently, quietly enough that only he can hear.

He swallows hard.

I watch him fight the urge to shake his head, forcing himself to keep his gaze on the floor instead. His grip tightens around the door, pouring every word he refuses to say into the metal, which stands strong for the both of us.

I walk ahead just in time for Himiko to run past me and into his arms, I'm guessing.

I wouldn't know.
I never turn around.
It's not my business.
He's not my business anymore.

"So you're on speaking terms with Mr. Grumpy?"

I smile as I approach Max, who's waiting for me by the elevator.

"It's more complicated than that. But yes. I realised ignoring him was only doing more damage to me."

His eyebrows dip in confusion.

"We have a past. There's no denying that, and there's no point trying to run away from it. So by coming to an understanding with myself, I can let that part of my life go."

I nod. "I can let him go."

My hands squeeze tightly into fists because I'm losing it. I want to turn around.

For what, I don't know.

Because if I see him, I'll only witness the love he once had for me pouring into her.

So why the hell would I ever want to turn around?

What's wrong with me?

"Mia—"

"The next words that come out of your mouth better be nothing short of support. Don't confuse me, Max. Not with him. Not now."

He shuts his mouth into a thin line, nodding towards the floor.

With his hands in his pockets, he steps into the elevator, and I join him, pressing for my floor.