HIDDEN TRUTHS

CHAPTER 10: FRACTURED REALITIES

Porsch sat on the edge of the bed, his head in his hands. The events of the night before played in an endless loop in his mind. Arm had left their home without waiting for the full explanation, taking with him only a small suitcase. Porsch’s heart pounded with a mix of worry and relief. The suitcase was small, a sign that Arm might come back. But what if he came back when Porsch was at work and took the rest of his things?

Porsch stood up, unable to sit still. He began pacing the living room, his thoughts a chaotic swirl. He had tried calling Arm multiple times, but each call went straight to voicemail. Arm had blocked him, cutting off the most direct line of communication. The silence was unbearable.

He glanced at the clock. Work was supposed to start in an hour, but Porsch couldn't bring himself to leave the apartment. What if Arm needed him? What if Arm was in trouble? The uncertainty gnawed at him, making it impossible to focus on anything else.

Porsch moved to the window, staring out at the street below. The world outside seemed so normal, so oblivious to the turmoil raging inside him. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. Maybe Arm just needed some time to think, to process everything. Porsch had finally confessed to being married, a revelation that had shattered their trust. It was only natural that Arm needed space.

But what if he didn’t come back? What if this was the end? Porsch’s stomach twisted at the thought. He couldn't bear to lose Arm, not like this. They had built a life together, and despite the lies, there was so much love between them.

Porsch’s phone buzzed, breaking the silence. He grabbed it, hoping it was Arm, but the screen showed a message from his assistant. He was needed at work, but how could he leave? Porsch’s mind raced as he considered his options. He could stay home, but what good would that do? Arm had made it clear he needed space.

Porsch took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He had to go to work. It was the responsible thing to do, and maybe it would give Arm the space he needed. Porsch grabbed his jacket and keys, but his heart felt heavy as he headed for the door. He paused, glancing around their apartment one last time. It felt emptier without Arm, a stark reminder of what was at stake.

---

Arm lay on the hotel bed, staring up at the ceiling. The events of the previous night replayed in his mind, making sleep difficult. He had left the apartment in a rush without a clear plan. Now, the morning light streaming through the curtains brought a new wave of anxiety.

He knew he couldn't stay at the hotel. Porsch paid all the credit card bills and would easily track his location. The last thing Arm wanted was for Porsch to find him before he was ready to talk. He needed time to think, to figure out his next steps.

Arm sat up, running a hand through his hair. He needed to find a place to stay, but that meant explaining the situation to a friend. Not all of his friends knew the full details of his relationship with Porsch, and he wasn't ready to share everything with just anyone.

After a few minutes of contemplation, he made a decision. Mew and Tul were the best option. They were close friends who understood his situation better than most. Arm knew he could trust them with the truth.

He quickly packed his small suitcase and checked out of the hotel. The morning air was cool as he stepped outside, and he took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. The drive to Mew and Tul's place was filled with a mix of anxiety and determination. He needed their support now more than ever.

---

It was morning, and Mew was still sleeping peacefully, a slight smile on his face as he dreamt. Tul, however, had woken up early, deciding to start the day with a shower and then make Mew some breakfast before work. He stepped into the bathroom, the warm water cascading over his body, relaxing him.