Captive

Chapter 41

A New Path, A Lingering Shadow

Weeks had passed since Jeff had found the rose with the note, “Love is a pain.” The message haunted him, constantly lurking at the edges of his thoughts. He kept telling himself that it was time to move forward, but every time he touched the scar where the thorn had pricked his skin, he remembered Bible’s lingering presence.

Despite this, Jeff found himself trying to focus on his new partnership with Pong. Pong had been nothing but soft with him, providing the support and understanding Jeff needed to regain his passion for fashion design. Their working relationship had turned into something more—a quiet friendship that didn’t demand anything from him, unlike the tangled emotions he had with Bible

Pong, ever attentive and patient, encouraged Jeff to take the lead on their project. His gentleness made Jeff feel safe in a way he hadn’t felt in a long time. One evening, while working late together, Pong suggested they attend an upcoming fashion event together.

“It could be good for you,” Pong said, his voice soft but hopeful. “You’ve been working hard, and it’s time the world sees your talent again.”

Jeff hesitated, but Pong’s encouragement was unwavering. He agreed, seeing it as an opportunity to step out of the shadow of his past and focus on something new.

The event buzzed with energy, and Jeff found himself drawn into the excitement. He hadn’t felt this alive in months. With Pong by his side, offering quiet encouragement and compliments, Jeff began to feel like maybe, just maybe, he could really move on from everything that had happened.

People praised his designs, shaking his hand and giving him nods of approval. As the evening wore on, Jeff began to relax. He allowed himself to feel proud again, for the first time in what felt like forever.

Pong stayed close, never pushing, but always present, a quiet source of strength. His subtle care made Jeff feel lighter, as if the weight of the past was starting to lift, piece by piece.

As the event transitioned into the after-party, Jeff was beginning to truly enjoy himself. That was until he saw Bible walk into the room.

Jeff’s heart stopped.

Bible strode in, looking as confident as ever, his presence immediately shifting the energy in the room. Jeff couldn’t tear his eyes away. It was as if no time had passed since they last stood in the same space. The familiar ache in Jeff’s chest returned, stronger than ever.

Bible’s gaze found Jeff instantly, locking onto him. Despite the crowd, Bible seemed focused on only one person. Jeff tried to compose himself, but it was no use. The unresolved feelings he’d been trying to bury began to rise to the surface.

Bible made his way over to Jeff and Pong. There was an undeniable tension, thick in the air, as Bible greeted them casually, though his eyes never left Jeff’s. Pong noticed Jeff’s unease and subtly moved closer, a protective stance, as if to shield Jeff from whatever was coming.

“Looks like you’re doing well,” Bible said, his voice smooth but laced with something deeper. “I guess moving on isn’t so hard after all.”

Jeff swallowed hard, his mind racing. He wanted to respond, but his voice failed him. Pong, sensing the building tension, excused himself politely, leaving Jeff and Bible alone. Jeff felt exposed, his emotions raw.

The space between them seemed to shrink. Bible took a step closer, his eyes dark and unreadable.

“You never answered my question,” Bible said, his tone quiet but intense. “Are you really moving on, or are you just running away?”