𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘𝐆𝐈𝐑𝐋 [18+]

- 8 -

I lay back against the soft cushions of the couch, the weight of exhaustion settling over me like a heavy blanket, I couldn't help but feel the tension lingering in the back of my mind. Placing the empty wine glass on the coffee table, my mind drifted back to the whirlwind of chaos and conflict that had engulfed us, Andre and me...

The last few days were a complete blur, filled with hustle and chaos. My parents were out of town, I've had new company lawsuit cases which I've been sitting late nights for, looking out for Zara and my relationship with Andre... balancing my work life with my private life wasn't easy.

Things have been a rollercoaster with Andre. We've been fighting a lot these past few days. Our opinions were slightly down different roads - our emotions on wildfire. We haven't talked in days.

'"Zara is a grown woman, Pen. She can make her own decisions!" He argues, turning away from me and running his hands through his already massacred hair, clearly frustrated.

"What are you talking about? You told me what you saw! How do you expect me to keep quiet after seeing that?" I raise my voice, folding my hands. He turns to face me away, this time his eyes filled with worry.

"I know. Val seems like this cold monster, but he's my best friend! But Pen, I've known him since I was seven - just trust me on this."

I hesitate before opening my mouth. "Did he hurt her?"

"No... they kissed right when I turned the corner, on my way to the restroom."

My eyes fall closed, releasing a sign.

"I'm scared, Andre. We both know Val and his family. The kind of things they do and their deed. Zara isn't safe."

"She'll be just fine!"

"If my parents find out, it won't end well for me or Zara. They've told me to look after her - if anything happens to her, I'll be held responsible. Besides, you know how they feel about Zara dating and everything. Hell, they barely accepted us!" 

"I know, I know, baby. I'll talk to Val don't worry, just please calm down!"

That was the last time we talked. Two days ago. Ever since I've been drowning in my work- yes, we text a few times a day. A good morning text, a good night text or "how you doing?" Our sex life was as dry as the Sahara desert. No calls. No compassion. No communication.

He's a nice guy. I've known him for long enough and I've always wondered what dating him would be like and I've craved it forever. I couldn't let these silly issues ruin us.

My eyes fall closed from my exhaustion - letting my mind wander to another prominent thing on my mind. My little talk with Val, the night of the party.

.