From the outset

Eleven

Ryan's POV:

After my conversation with Mum, I freshened up and headed to Victoria's house. As I stepped out, I spotted Scarlett taking in the fresh air outside. She looked breathtakingly beautiful, wearing a short mini skirt and crop top, her hair cascading down her shoulders.

I couldn't help but stare, mesmerized by her radiant complexion and bright smile. Scarlett's carefree demeanor drew me in, and for a moment, I forgot about the tension ahead.

"Good morning Ryan," Scarlett said, catching my gaze.

"Morning Scarlett, hope u slept well." I replied snapping back to reality.

"Of Cos I did." She said Scanning me.

We exchanged warm smiles and I felt a sense of comfort.

"You look stunning," I said gazing lustily into her bright hazel eyes.

"Thanks, Ryan," she replied.

"My pleasure," I replied with a soft smile.

We shared a gentle smile, and I felt my anxiety about Victoria fade.

" Where are you heading to? She asked anxiously.

"Heading to Victoria's." I replied softly.

"Oh." She said her smile fading away.

" Would you like me to take u round town when I'm back" I asked.

"I'll love that" She said with a smile which brightened up her face.

"Alright then see you when I'm back." I said.

"Ok bye." She replied and then went back inside.

I entered my car and navigated through the winding streets of Paris, heading to "Montmatre" An artistic neighborhood where Victoria resides, The mix of emotions swirling inside me grew more turbulent with each passing kilometer.

I pulled into Victoria's driveway, anxiety creeping in with each passing moment. As I stepped out of the car, my heart began to race.

"Hey, Ryan, come in," Lisa greeted me warmly at the door.

"Hey, Lisa," I replied, trying to hide my tension as I entered into the living room.

"Victoria's in the bathroom," Lisa said. "She'll be out soon, Do feel at home Ryan I'll be up stairs in my room." She said.

"Ok" I nodded and took a seat in the living room.

I decided to go into Victoria's room to wait for her there so once she's out we'll have a quiet talk. I entered Victoria's room, Surrounded by familiar memories. Photos of us adorned the walls, and her scent lingered in the air. I sat on the edge of the bed, collecting my thoughts.

My gaze fell on her phone lying on the bed. Curiosity got the better of me, and I picked it up. The new wallpaper caught my attention. A solo photo of Victoria, replacing the cherished memories we once shared.

A pang of sadness struck.

Just then, a message popped up on her screen from Alex—the same guy who called her yesterday at the dining table.

My mind raced as I connected the dots. Alex's familiarity and intimacy in his message sent a stab of pain through my chest.

"Can't wait to see you tonight sexy missing you so badly."

My heart sank, consumed by anger, jealousy, and hurt.

The bathroom door creaked open, and Victoria stepped out, her eyes meeting mine.

Victoria emerged from the bathroom, her eyes widening in surprise as she took in my presence. Water droplets clung to her skin, and her hair was tied up in a towel. She looked vulnerable, yet beautiful.

"Ryan, what are you doing here?" she asked, her voice laced with caution.

I held up her phone, the screen still displaying Alex's message.

"Who is Alex?" I asked, my tone firm but controlled.

Her eyes darted to the phone, then back to me. For a moment, she seemed caught off guard. Her expression changed from surprise to unease.

"Ryan, I—"

"Don't lie to me," I interrupted, my voice rising. "I saw the messages. You're cheating on me."

Victoria's expression shifted from fear to defiance. "You're overreacting. Alex is just a friend."

"A friend with a heart emoji and 'sexy' messages?" I scoffed. "Don't insult my intelligence."

Victoria sighed, her shoulders sagging. "Fine. Yes, I've been seeing Alex. But it's not serious. You're just not giving me what I need."

I felt a sting from her words. "What I'm not giving you? You mean attention, because you're clearly seeking it elsewhere?"

Victoria shrugged. "Maybe. You're always busy, and I feel alone. Alex makes me feel wanted."

I shook my head, disgust and hurt swirling inside me. "You're blaming me for your infidelity?"

"I was feeling suffocated Ryan I wanted to be free." She tried to explain as tears rolled down her cheeks,

The conversation was going nowhere. I realized I deserved better.

" You know what Victoria it's over you can go be with Alex" I said tossing her phone to the bed.

"Ryan, please, I'm sorry," Victoria pleaded, but I wasn't ready to listen. I'd heard enough.

I stormed out of her room, slamming the door behind me, and left her house. The cool evening air did little to calm my raging emotions.

I got into my car and drove to the nearest bar, seeking solace in alcohol to drown my sorrow.