Psychotic Disaster

Chapter 19

"Morgan? Girl, what brought you here this late? Come in." Herberto greeted me with a warm smile as he opened the door to his house.

"Thanks, Herberto, Late? It's still early duh." I said as I stepped inside. 

I browsed my eyes on my wrist watch, It's currently 7:31 PM.

I decided to visit him after I've settled my work at the clinic.

"I need to be intoxicated with caffeine, make me one," I demanded.

He just shrugged as he rolled his eyes and made his way to the kitchen.

I sat on his yellow cozy couch.

His place is so welcoming, it had a modern and unique style with the shades of beige and yellow that fit his jolly personality.

"I have a question for you," I began, not sure how to phrase it delicately.

"Shoot," Herberto said from the kitchen.

"Do you know why Gil has a grudge against Theodore?" I asked.

"That's a complicated story. It goes back a few years." He said stirring the coffee.

"Here madam!" He handed me the mug.

"Tell me," I urged, then took a sip.

"Well," Herberto began, "Gil and Theodore used to be close friends, almost like brothers. They went to college together, and they were inseparable. Gil was always the ambitious one, focused on his career and making a name for himself. Theodore, on the other hand, was more laid-back, focused on his art and enjoying life."

I nodded, picturing the two of them as young men, full of dreams and potential.

"Things started to change when they both got jobs at Shawn's company," Herberto continued.

"Gil was quickly rising through the ranks, while Theodore was struggling to find his place." He said while chewing the loaf bread.

"There was an opportunity for a major project that could have catapulted either of them into the spotlight. Both of them wanted it, but for different reasons." He added.

"What happened?" I asked, intrigued.

"Theodore got the project," Herberto said. "He was chosen because of his innovative ideas and creativity. It was a huge blow to Gil, who felt he deserved it more because of his hard work and dedication. That was the beginning of the rift between them." I could see how such a situation could create tension.

"So, it's professional jealousy?"

"Partly," Herberto said. "But it goes deeper."

"How so?"

"Gil felt betrayed because he believed Theodore had manipulated the situation to his advantage. There were rumors that Theodore had used underhanded tactics to secure the project, though nothing was ever proven."

"Do you think the rumors were true?" I asked, wanting to get Herberto's perspective.

He shrugged.

"Honestly, I don't know. Theodore has always been a bit of a mystery. He's incredibly talented, but he keeps his cards close to his chest."
I nodded.

"Gil, on the other hand, is more straightforward. He wears his heart on his sleeve." I took another sip of coffee, letting the information sink in.

"So, you think Gil still holds a grudge because of that project?"

"Yes," Herberto said. "But it's also about their friendship. Gil feels like he lost a brother. It's not just about the professional rivalry— it's personal for him."