Toxic

Chapter 5

For the next few weeks, Isabella found herself caught in a repetitive cycle. Each date with James was filled with polite conversation and affectionate kisses. Yet, every time they parted ways, she would drive to Chris's place, where they would tumble into bed together.

One evening, after a particularly frustrating day, Isabella sought solace in Courtney. They sat in their cozy living room, the soft hum of the city outside their window providing a backdrop to their conversation.

Courtney observed Isabella with a mixture of concern and curiosity. "You know," she began, her tone surprisingly calm, "I've been watching you from the balcony. I see you kissing James as he drops you off, and then, once he leaves, you get in your car and drive off. I'm assuming you're heading to Chris."

Isabella, feeling the weight of her actions, nodded slowly, her face flushed with shame. "I'm sorry," she confessed, her voice trembling. "I try to make it work with James. I do. But whenever I kiss him, I feel nothing. And with Chris..."

Courtney held up a hand, her expression soft but firm. "I don't want to hear about Chris. But as someone who cares about you, I have to say this: you need to break things off with James. He doesn't deserve to be part of this mess. And Chris... well, he's toxic for you. You need to end it with him too."

Isabella's eyes filled with tears as she absorbed Courtney's words. "I know," she said quietly. "I just... I don't know how to stop. I'm drawn to Chris, but it's tearing me apart. And James... I don't want to hurt him."

Courtney reached out and took Isabella's hand, offering a comforting squeeze. "You have to be honest with both of them and with yourself. It's not fair to James to keep him in limbo, and it's not healthy for you to stay tangled up with someone toxic. You need to make a choice and stick with it."

Isabella nodded, feeling the sting of realization. "I'll talk to James and end things with him. And with Chris... I guess I'll have to figure out how to let go."

Courtney gave her a reassuring smile. "You'll get through this. It's going to be tough, but it's the right thing to do. And remember, I'm here for you, no matter what."

Isabella walked through the quiet corridors of the hospital; her mind heavy with the weight of her decision.

"Come in," James's voice called from inside.

She opened the door and stepped in, meeting his welcoming gaze. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Isabella took a seat in front of his desk. With a deep breath, she began to speak, her voice trembling slightly.

"James, I need to be honest with you. I've been struggling with my feelings, and I have to tell you that I don't have the same feelings for you as I thought I did. I think it's only fair to let you know."

James listened quietly; his expression thoughtful. After a moment, he nodded and responded with calm grace. "Thank you for being honest with me. I appreciate that more than you know."

Isabella offered a weak smile, feeling a mix of relief and sadness. James stood up and walked her to the door. They shared a hug, and as they parted, their lips met in a tender kiss.

They break off and kiss again. The kiss deepened quickly, becoming more passionate. James closed the office door behind them, his hands moving with urgency.

Before Isabella could fully process what was happening, James lifted and carried her onto his desk. She was caught off guard but didn't resist. He pulled down her dress and squeezed over her. She unbuttoned his pants as he lifted her dress.

James positioned himself and entered her roughly. Isabella gasped, trying to keep her moans subdued as he thrust in and out with a desperate rhythm. Her body responded despite her attempt to remain silent.

As the intensity of the moment grew, Isabella's thoughts drifted to Chris. In the throes of passion, she inadvertently screamed, "Oh yeah, Chris, don't stop."

James froze, pulling away abruptly. Isabella's face flushed with embarrassment as she realized her mistake. She stammered an apology, trying to regain her composure.

"I'm sorry, James," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

James, his frustration evident, tried to remain calm. "Just leave," he said, his tone edged with disappointment.

Isabella quickly adjusted her dress and left the office, feeling the sting of her actions.

Isabella stumbled through the front door, tears streaming down her face. She was overwhelmed, her emotions a chaotic whirl of regret and sadness. Courtney was in the living room, sitting on the couch with a book, and looked up at the sound of the door. Seeing Isabella's distraught state, she immediately set the book aside and rushed over.

"Oh, Izzy," Courtney said softly, her voice filled with concern. She enveloped Isabella in a comforting embrace, rubbing her back gently.

Isabella collapsed into Courtney's arms, sobbing uncontrollably. Between her sobs, she managed to explain through her tears.

Courtney remained silent, her arms holding Isabella tightly. She didn't need to say anything; her presence was enough. She stroked Isabella's hair and whispered soothingly, allowing her friend to cry and release her anguish.