Beyond The Lie

Chapter 63: The Reading

Eryx

June 27th in Newyork.

It's only been 4 days since everything fell apart in Paris. I'm still trying to process it all. The first two days were brutal - I couldn't shake off the self-doubt, guilt, and regret. But I've had some time to reflect, and I've made up my mind to move forward.

Since I'm suspended from work, I've got too much time on my hands. I'm trying to stay busy, but it's hard not to think about... her. So, I've come up with a plan. I'll get back to working out, try to clear my head. I've even started reading this book, "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. It's weird, but it's making me think about my own life, about what I really want. Maybe this is the wake-up call I needed.

Something's been bugging me, Susan. She reached out, but didn't ask about Adeline. I'm not sure why she hesitated. Maybe she thought bringing her up would hurt me or remind me of things I'd rather forget. Whatever the reason, I appreciate her kindness.

Asher and Ryker were super supportive when I went to Paris, but when I came back...let's just say they didn't sugarcoat things. I get it, though. They don't understand why I did what I did.

Here's the thing: Adeline got into trouble because of me. She's always dealing with fallout from my actions. People hate me, and that affects her. If we stayed together, she'd keep paying the price for being with me. Does she deserve that? No.

So, I did what I thought was right. I tried to protect her, even if it meant letting her go. I don't get why this is so hard for everyone to understand. I just...I don't know, maybe I'm just tired of explaining myself.

I'm doing okay now. I'm thinking of getting outdoors - maybe go for a hike or something. I need to reconnect with nature. There's something about being in the wilderness that just clears my head and soothes my soul. Nature has a way of healing us, you know?

I'm actually headed to the hills right now to get some fresh air. Feeling clearer already. Everything's gonna be alright.

***

Adeline.

July 3rd, Paris

I woke up to the sound of Liv's laughter and Soph's gentle chatter. Our hotel room was bathed in the soft, golden light of morning, and the Eiffel Tower stood tall outside our window. Today was our last day in Paris.

"So, we're flying back to New York tomorrow," Liv said, as we sat down for breakfast. "We have to make the most of our last day here."

"I'm so sad to leave," Soph said, her voice tinged with melancholy. "But I'm also excited to go home."

I nodded in agreement, trying to push aside the thoughts of Eryx that lingered in my mind. We had been in Paris for almost two weeks, 13 days to be exact. 12 days since he arrived. It felt like a lifetime ago.

After breakfast, we set out on our final adventure in Paris. The sun was shining, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. We strolled along the Seine, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Liv chattered excitedly about our plans for the day, while Soph walked beside her, nodding and smiling. I trailed behind them, lost in my thoughts.

The fake relationship was over, and with it, the fragile connection Eryx and I had shared.

I pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the present. Today was about making memories with my friends, not dwelling on what could have been.

As we walked, the sound of street performers and vendors filled the air. Liv stopped to watch a juggler, mesmerized by his skill. We walked ahead, taking in the sights and sounds.