Shadows of The Heart

CHAPTER 1

"FUCK OFF" he shouted making Maya to flinch. "Don't ever show your face to me from now on"

"Answer me for this one question. I will never interfere in your life ever." Maya said to him, sniffing.

He raised his one eyebrow, asking her to continue.

"Why her? I gave you everything. My love, attention, care, my... my... body." she continued.

"WHY? WHY HER?" she shouted.

"It's not just about you, okay? It's about me too. You've changed, you've become so suffocating, always questioning me, always doubting me. And I loved you too, but you've become so insecure, so clingy. I needed someone who understands me, who doesn't constantly nag me about every little thing. This relationship isn't what I want anymore. It's not about what you did, it's about what you didn't do. I have been feeling neglected. Maybe if you were more attentive, more loving, I wouldn't have had to look for affection elsewhere. If you were a better girlfriend, I wouldn't have had to go elsewhere to feel wanted."

"So, it's my fault? I'm to blame for you cheating on me?" Maya asked, tears flowing down from her eyes.

"No, I'm not saying that. But maybe if you were different, if you were more supportive, I wouldn't have looked elsewhere. I can't continue like this. I need to be with someone who trusts me, who doesn't drive me insane with her insecurities."

"Fine. If that's what you want, then go. But don't you dare blame me for your mistakes. You're the one who chose to cheat, not me." she said trying her best to not breakdown in front of the bastard who cheated her with her own best friend.

She could never have imagined her best friend, hurting her in this way. Not that she expected her boyfriend to do the same.

"Whatever helps you sleep at night." he said and rolled his eyes at her.

Maya moved out of the cafe trying her best to avoid all the stares on her.

***

Just cry.. but remember, the world needs you!

***

"One Tequila Sunrise, please" ordered Maya to the bartender who have been eyeing her up and down for quite sometime now.

"Anything else babe?" he asked to Maya, flirtingly.

"No thanks" saying so, with a tight-lipped smile, Maya got her shot and went from there.

Once she was outside the bar, she looked towards her left. The night scene is enveloped in a serene darkness, with a gentle breeze whispering through the air. The street stretches out like a ribbon, its asphalt glistening softly under the glow of street lamps. The street leads towards the foothills of a small hill in the distance, their outlines barely visible against the darkened sky.

On either side of the street, small hotels with warm, inviting lights dot the landscape. Their front elevation adorned with colourful signs and potted plants, emanating a cozy ambiance. Despite the late hour, there are only a few customers scattered among the outdoor seating areas, enjoying quiet conversations or sipping on hot beverages.

Walking along the sidewalk are families, with children skipping alongside their parents, their small hands tightly clasped together. The children's laughter floats through the air, mingling with the gentle hum of the night. Some carry balloons while some with ice cream cones, adding splashes of colour to the dimly lit scene.

Looking at them, Maya remembers her early years; she, holding the hands of her parents and her dad feeding her candy time to time. A drop of tear slip down, and she quickly wipes it. Smiling at the kids, she move towards the hill.