FALLING INTO ILLUSIONS

Priorities or Betrayal

It's the middle of the night. Ryan's car pulled up outside Lisa's apartment building. The city was silent, and a gnawing feeling of unease settled over him as he approached the apartment.

As he entered, Ryan notices Brian's coat draped over the living room chair. A cold knot formed in his stomach as he registered that Brian had been here all night. His heart races with jealousy, trying to stay as quiet as possible, and starts looking for Lisa in whole apartment. He looks through the living room, kitchen, and hallway, but Lisa is nowhere to be found. He's praying that his hunch proves wrong and heads towards Lisa's bedroom. His footsteps are almost inaudible as he moves down the hallway.

Ryan opens the bedroom door slightly and peeks inside. His breath catches in his throat as he sees Lisa and Brian lying together on the bed, deeply asleep and embracing each other. His mind is a whirlwind of emotions—shock, betrayal, and searing jealousy. He feels a pang of anger as he witnesses the intimate scene. The sight of Brian's hand resting protectively over Lisa's arm, their peaceful expressions, and the composed atmosphere intensify his frustration.

He clenches his fists, fighting the urge to confront them immediately. The jealousy consumes him as he realized that Brian is in a vulnerable, intimate moment with Lisa. Ryan leaves quietly with his heavy heart & disappointment. The night air cool against his flushed skin. He walks away with a storm of emotions swirling inside him, pondering what steps to take next.

The first light of dawn filtered, casting a gentle glow over Lisa's bedroom. Brian stirred first, his eyes slowly opening to the soft warmth of the morning sun. He glanced at Lisa, who was still nestled comfortably beside him, her breathing steady and peaceful. A tender smile spread across his face as he took in sight of her, placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, feeling a sense of contentment and closeness that had eluded him for some time.

Brian carefully freed himself from the bed, not wanting to disturb Lisa. He moved quietly to the kitchen, deciding to make breakfast as a gesture of care.

He attempted to handle the utensils with his left hand but made it awkward and challenging. He clumsily tried to pour coffee but spill all over, resulting in a series of small but noisy mishaps—clattering dishes.

The sounds of Brian's struggles soon reached Lisa, rousing her from her sleep. She rubbed her eyes and walked towards the kitchen, she couldn't help but laugh at the sight of Brian, who was looking both determined and slightly frustrated, his plastered hand awkwardly hovering over the kitchen counter.

"Morning, Mr. Chef." Lisa said and her laughter was light.

Brian looked up with embarrassment and amusement. "I thought I'd surprise you with breakfast, but it seems my hand has other plans."

Lisa shook her head, teasing as she took in the chaotic scene. "Let me help. You've already done enough just by trying."

Lisa took over, expertly cleaning around the kitchen and began preparing breakfast. As she worked, she began to jiggle with her hair, which had become messy overnight. The strands kept falling into her face, causing her mild irritation.

Noticing her struggle, Brian walked over and tie it up with a simple clip he found on the counter.

Lisa was confused by his unexpected gesture. "Brian..."

Before she could finish, Brian wrapped his arms around her in a warm hug, his gesture both reassuring and affectionate and place a soft kiss on her cheek. Lisa's initial confusion was quickly replaced by some unspoken feeling, though she was still a bit uneasy with the sudden intimacy. She glanced at Brian, who seemed to be enjoying the simple act of closeness.

"Brian, what—" Lisa started, her voice slightly lowered by his embrace.

Brian pulled back just enough to look into her eyes. "Good morning. This might be the best morning I ever had."

Lisa's cheeks flushed slightly as she absorbed his words and the genuine warmth in his eyes.

Lisa looked at the clock and sighed. "I need to head to the gallery soon. I won't be able to accompany you."

Brian nodded, his expression softening. "I understand. I need to head to the company as well and it's non-negotiable, Lisa. But I'll miss you."

Lisa nodded in acceptance.

The morning sun continued to bathe the room in its warm glow, and for Lisa and Brian, it marked the beginning of a new day.

Brian arrived at the company, his thoughts still lingering on the morning's intimate moments with Lisa. The office, typically bustling with activity, felt unusually tense today. As he made his way through the corridors, he couldn't shake the sense that something was off.

When he reached his office, Brian stepped inside and noticed his father, seated at the desk. Andrew looked up, frustration evident on his face.

"Morning, Mr. Luther. You're here?" Brian greeted him, trying to mask his unease.

Andrew's gaze sharpened as he took in Brian's appearance. "There you are! I've been trying to reach you all night. Where were you? You didn't come home last night."

Andrew's eyes then landed on the temporary plaster on Brian's hand, his expression changed. He maintained his tough exterior, but the visible sign of concern didn't go unnoticed: "And what's with the plaster?" Andrew asked, his tone holding a hint of irritation.

Brian uncomfortably, trying to hide the annoyance into his voice. "Nothing serious. I got caught up with some personal matters. But I'm here now."

Andrew's gaze remained steady, his concern masked by his tough demeanor. "You need to manage your responsibilities better, Brian. The company doesn't wait for anyone."

Brian nodded, feeling the weight of his father's words as he took his seat: "I do balance my personal and professional life better and here to prove my commitments."

Andrew's face darkened, his voice rising with anger: "Who is Lisa? Are you seeing someone? You've been distracted and unreliable since then. End things with her. Sophia is a better choice for you."

Brian was stunned by the sudden shift. For a moment, he was at a loss for words: "My personal life doesn't concern you," he replied, his voice cold. "You never cared before, so don't start now. I know my priorities. Besides, my life isn't a business deal."

Andrew slammed his hand on the desk, his frustration palpable. "You missed the meeting with Sophia and jeopardized the entire investment! This isn't just about your personal life; it's about the company's future!"

Brian's face flushed with anger. "I understand the stakes, Mr. Luther. But your prying into my personal matters isn't helping. Besides, I carefully handled that matter and made amends."

Andrew's eyes narrowed in anger: "You need to get your act together, Brian. The company and its investments rely on such relations. If you can't handle both, you'll have to face the consequences."

Brian met his father's gaze, feeling the weight of the confrontation. "I can handle it, without mixing my personal life into this mess." he said, his voice tight with resolve.

Andrew gave a curt nod and left the office in anger. As Brian took his seat, the pressure of the day's responsibilities loomed large. Brian focused on the tasks at hand.