Let's pretend we're together

Extra: *FLASHBACK*

Riley's POV

*BEGIN OF FLASHBACKKK*

I transport myself back to that fateful evening, where innocence and affection morphed into toxicity and heartache. The room was dimly lit, creating an intimate ambiance as Callob and I engaged in what seemed like an innocent and playful conversation.

Our laughter filled the air, intertwining with the warmth of our connection. It was one of those nights where everything felt right, and we decided to embark on a game of 20 questions. Little did I know that the questions we would ask each other would unearth the deep-seated differences that lay dormant beneath the surface.

We took turns, each question building a stronger bond between us. From our favorite movies to our dream travel destinations, the conversation flowed effortlessly. But as the questions progressed, we unknowingly walked into a minefield.

Riley: "Alright, Callob, it's my turn now. What's your favorite movie of all time?"

Callob's face lit up with excitement, completely unaware of the emotional turmoil that lay ahead.

Callob: "Oh, that's a tough one! But if I had to choose, I'd say 'The Notebook.' It's a beautiful love story that always touches my heart."

His response filled the room with warmth, and I couldn't help but smile. But as we continued, the questions began to venture into more profound territory.

Riley: "Okay, Callob, here's another question for you. Do you envision yourself getting married someday?"

Callob's expression shifted slightly, his eyes searching for the right words. A hint of hesitation lingered in the air.

Callob: "Honestly, Riley, I don't want to get married. My parents never got married, and I want to be just like them. Marriage is a big commitment, and I'm not sure if it's something I see for myself."

The slight pang of disappointment tugged at my heart, but I held onto the hope that our desires would align. I proceeded cautiously with the next question.

Riley: "Oh okay. And what about having children? Do you see yourself as a parent in the future?"

His response held the weight of our future, the dreams and aspirations we held individually.

Callob's demeanor changed, his eyes flickering with an intensity I hadn't seen before.

Callob: "Absolutely, honey. I've always wanted to have children someday. I imagine myself being a father, guiding them through life and creating a beautiful family."

His words hung in the air, mingling with a growing tension between us. Our differing desires for the future suddenly felt like insurmountable obstacles.

Riley: "I see. Well, I've always dreamed of getting married and I want to dedicate my whole life to the person I love, but I've never really wanted to have children, without mentioning the BIG pain i'll go throw, I don't want to be a single mother, nor  have the responsability to take care of another human beying. It's just not something I feel called to do."

The room fell silent, the air thick with unspoken truth. The compatibility we had cherished so dearly was crumbling before our very eyes.

Callob's eyes burned with anger, his voice laced with toxicity.

Callob: "You've ruined everything, Riley! How can you deny me the joy of having a family? You're throwing away our future!"

His toxic words pierced through my heart, leaving me wounded and defeated. The innocent conversation had morphed into a battleground of differing dreams and expectations. Callob's face twisted with anger, his voice dripping with venom as he unleashed a barrage of insults and hurtful words.

Callob: "You're a horrible human being, Riley! How can you be so selfish? You claim to love me, but all you do is tear me down! You're a terrible girlfriend, always putting your own desires above mine!"

His words stung, each syllable puncturing my heart. The love and affection we had once shared seemed like a distant memory, replaced by a toxic storm that raged between us.

Riley: "Callob, please, let's try to find a way to communicate without resorting to insults. We can't solve anything with hurtful words."

But my plea fell on deaf ears as his rage consumed him.

Callob: "You don't deserve my love, Riley. You're incapable of understanding anyone but yourself. I've given you everything, and all you do is trample on my dreams and make me feel insignificant! Lina doesnt treat me like this, she understants me, and agrees with me."

Tears welled up in my eyes, a torrent of emotions threatening to overflow. I tried desperately to defend myself, to salvage what was left of our crumbling relationship.

Riley: "I'm not perfect, Callob, but neither are you. Love is about compromise and understanding. We need to work together, not tear each other apart."

But my words were futile against the onslaught of his toxic rage. The toxicity had seeped into the very foundation of our connection, eroding the love and trust we had once held dear. Love should never be a battleground of insults and belittlement. It should be a sanctuary, a place where we find solace and support.

*END OF FLASHBACKKK*

No longer will I allow toxic words to define my worth or erode my spirit. I step forward, determined to heal and rebuild, knowing that I deserve love that lifts me up and nurtures my soul.