Shadows of deceit

9. ~NSFW~

(NSFW will ONLY be on AO3!!!)

As Peppy watched Branch leave his office, he let out a heavy sigh, his mind swirling with thoughts of Poppy's concerns and the escalating tension between Creek and Branch. He recalled her expression, the worry etched on her face as she spoke of the strain of having both men in her life intersecting in such a tumultuous way. Now, witnessing it firsthand, Peppy understood the gravity of the situation.

After a moment of contemplation, Peppy picked up the phone on his desk and dialed Creek's extension. Within minutes, Creek strode into Peppy's office and took a seat, his demeanor still bristling with frustration.

"I want to start by saying, Branch and Poppy were fighting first," Peppy began, his tone measured but firm. "I happened to walk by and hear, so I came in and intervened. Branch was not pleased with that."

Creek leaned forward, his expression guarded. "I'm not surprised. He's been pushing boundaries."

Peppy nodded, acknowledging Creek's perspective. "Creek, I understand you're feeling protective of Poppy, but this aggression towards Branch is not acceptable. It's disrupting the workplace, and it's putting everyone in a difficult position."

Creek's jaw tightened, but he remained silent, waiting for Peppy to continue.

"I need to hear your side of the story," Peppy continued, his voice gentle yet insistent. "What's going on between you and Branch? And how do you see this affecting your relationship with Poppy?"

Creek hesitated, his thoughts racing. Finally, he spoke, his voice edged with frustration. "I've known Branch for years. He and Poppy have a history, and I can't help but feel like I'm competing with him."

Peppy leaned back in his chair, contemplating Creek's words carefully. "Competition isn't healthy in a relationship, Creek. Poppy deserves to feel secure, not torn between you and Branch. Besides, you two are married and have been for 5 years now, almost 6. Branch knows better than to meddle with your relationship, but Branch still has concerns for Poppy. you should be grateful that someone else is wanting to help you protect your wife."

"you didn't see the way he was looking at her Peppy. It was a look of.. longing.. and want. gawking at my wife isn't acceptable, especially in my presence." 

"is that why you punched him?" Peppy asked, folding his hands on his desk. 

Peppy's brow furrowed slightly at Creek's response, his concern deepening. "Creek, I understand feeling protective, but violence isn't the answer. Branch has been a friend to Poppy long before you two got together. You can't let jealousy cloud your judgment."

Creek shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his jaw tense. "I know... I just... I saw red, Peppy. It felt like he was disrespecting me and our marriage."

Peppy nodded slowly, processing Creek's admission. "I get it, Creek. It's natural to feel threatened, but reacting with aggression only makes things worse. You need to find a way to address your concerns without resorting to violence."

Creek sighed heavily, his shoulders sagging. "I know I messed up. I regret it now, especially seeing how it's affecting everything."

Peppy leaned forward, his voice firm yet compassionate. "You have to work through this, Creek. Trust and communication are key in any relationship. Talk to Poppy. Let her know how you feel, but also listen to her side. And as for Branch, I'll handle it from here. But I expect you to focus on resolving things with Poppy."

Creek nodded solemnly, his gaze fixed on the floor. "I will, Peppy. I promise."

Peppy sighed, relieved that Creek seemed willing to make amends. "Take some time to reflect, Creek. Use it wisely."