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Chapter 10- Lexie

Something had changed after our camping weekend. I was unsure if it was a moment of truth at the campfire or if college playoffs were about to begin. Chris's popularity and family always intimidated me, however, I saw him from a new perspective after our time together. I understood his playboy status, realizing it was an excuse to fill the lack of love he never received from his parents. I tried to make him feel secure. Even though we agreed our relationship to be friend-based, he hinted it to be more. I wasn't able to give him this. I was afraid to fall in love.

The Chicago Bears had notified him a scout would be watching his game, and he was nervous he wasn't good enough. He was unbearable to be around, and I was unable to change his attitude. The harder I tried, the more he pushed away.

I had volunteered to stay some extra hours at work to give him some space. As a reward, my boss asked me to help with an advertising event with some executives. It was a chance of a lifetime, and accepted immediately, not realizing it was the same day as the playoff game. I was hoping Chris would understand my predicament and be ok with my choice.

I was terrified to tell him and knew food and sex were his two favorite things besides football, so I invited him over for dinner to break the news. As soon as he walked in the door, I could tell we needed to start with the sex.

"Lexie, sex doesn't cure everything," he said, as I led him to my bedroom undressing as I went up the stairs.

I was surprised by his comment. "I know, but it sure helps, and it looks like you need all the help you can get."

"I am not in the mood, so it would be a waste of time," Chris said.

"Sit down," I said, patting the bed. "Just talk to me."

"It's nothing you can help with," he yelled.

"Are you worried about the game, or is it something else?"

"Partly the game, but I think my dad is having an affair again with a younger girl."

I wasn't sure how to respond in a situation like this. "Why do you think that?"

"I've thought that for a while with his unexpected business trips, but when I called to tell him about the game, I heard a female voice in the back. He started to stutter, making excuses and said he would call me later, but I haven't heard from him."

I gave him a sympathetic hug. "If he is, there is nothing you can do. You can't change him, Chris."

"I know and didn't mean to take it out on you. I'll be better once this game is over. I just need your support right now."

This was the opportunity I had been waiting for, and needed to get it out."Speaking of our careers, I was asked to work at an adverting event to meet some Ad executives. It's a chance of a lifetime."

"Lexie, that is great news, I'm happy for you." Chris kissed me on the lips and looked excited for me.

I paused, not knowing how to proceed. "It's this Saturday."

"Oh, what a bummer," he said. "You'll have another opportunity."I was stunned by the assumption I wouldn't go.

 "I accepted," I stated.

"What, you promised me? You know how much I need you, Lex. I can't do this without you," he said, sitting up in bed.

"But Chris, this is important for me. You said it's a great opportunity, and what if I never get another one?"

Chris got out of bed and quickly dressed, "I guess you already made your choice. We knew this day would come and I guess it is better now than later."

"Wait, don't you think we should talk about it?" I grabbed his arm to pull him back