Beneath the Surface

chapter 42: shadow of a rival

Tristan's Apartment – Early Evening

The room is dimly lit, with a few scattered papers and personal items visible. Tristan sits on his couch, his posture tense as he stares at a family photo of Sarah, Stan, and himself on the coffee table. The weight of his recent conversations with Sarah and Lucas's presence in their lives has left him feeling anxious and uncertain.

Tristan (muttering to himself, running a hand through his hair): "This is tougher than I thought. Lucas is a big part of their lives, and here I am, trying to make things right."

He picks up his phone and scrolls through his messages, checking for any updates or responses from Sarah. Seeing nothing new, he puts it down and stares out the window, lost in thought.

Tristan (to himself, reflecting): "Every time I'm not around, it feels like I'm losing ground. I want to show Sarah and Stan that I'm committed, but it's hard when Lucas is always there."

He stands up and begins to pace the room, his nerves getting the best of him. The thought of Lucas's steady presence and the sense that he's a rival in this situation weighs heavily on him.

Tristan's Apartment – Later

Tristan decides to call his friend, Max, seeking some advice and support. He picks up his phone and dials Max's number, hoping for a distraction and some clarity.

Max (answering the call): "Hey, Tristan. What's up?"

Tristan (nervously): "Hey, Max. I could use some advice. Things are getting complicated with Sarah and Lucas. I'm feeling like a real outsider here, and it's making it hard to stay positive."

Max (concerned): "Yeah, I can imagine. It's tough when you're trying to reconnect with someone while dealing with a significant other already in the picture. What's been going on?"

Tristan (frustrated): "Lucas is always around, and every time he's there, I feel like I'm losing my chance. I want to make a real difference in Sarah's life and Stan's, but it's like I'm constantly fighting an uphill battle."

Max (supportive): "You've got to remember that building a relationship takes time, especially when there's another person involved. Focus on showing them your genuine commitment and how you've changed. Let your actions speak louder than words."

Tristan (sighing): "I know, but it's hard when it feels like every time I'm not there, I'm losing ground. I just want to prove that I'm serious about being a positive influence in their lives."

Max (encouraging): "Keep doing what you're doing. You're making an effort to be present and show you care. Trust that in time, your sincerity will shine through. Just stay patient and focused."

Tristan (nodding, feeling a bit reassured): "Thanks, Max. I needed to hear that. I'll keep pushing forward and hope that things start to fall into place."

Max (supportive): "Anytime, Tristan. Hang in there. It's a tough situation, but you're handling it well. Just keep being honest and committed."

As the call ends, Tristan feels a bit more grounded. He realizes that despite the difficulties, he needs to stay focused on his goals and continue proving his dedication. The path to rebuilding his relationship with Sarah and Stan is challenging, but he's determined to persevere.

Tristan's Apartment – Night

Tristan sits at his desk, reviewing his plans and ideas for future activities with Sarah and Stan. He decides to organize a small get-together or outing that could create new, positive experiences for them as a family. His goal is to show that he's committed to making things work, even in the face of adversity.