Defining Moments

Chapter Two - Betrayal

*** Daniel. Model: Sean O'Pry. ***

Daniel' POV:

I wasn't expected to be home so early. I typically am home no earlier than midnight on a good day. Being a lawyer wasn't an easy job. I had returned home after a long and busy day at work, picking up some Chinese takeout on the way home for dinner. I walk into my home, setting my keys and wallet on the catch-all table by the door. I kick my shoes off and make my way towards the kitchen where I set down my briefcase and the Chinese. As I made my way to the bedroom I loosened my tie and shrugged off my suit coat.

As I walked into the bedroom, I threw my suit coat onto the armchair nearby. I looked up just in time to see my girlfriend and my brother in my bed together. Naked. "Daniel!" I heard Natalia screech.

I simply shook my head and turned to return to the kitchen. "Out. Both of you." I said. I made my way back into the kitchen where I sat down on a bar stool at the counter and began to eat my dinner that was meant for two. I reach into my pocket and grab the ring box before pulling it out and slamming it onto the counter.

I was going to propose to Natalia. That obviously never happened. Last time I ever come home early ever again. I made sure I scheduled no other meetings after five in the afternoon and made sure all my paperwork was done for the day by seven so I could come home early and surprise Natalia with her favorite food and a proposal. I felt so betrayed as I watched my brother and ex-girlfriend leave my house, hand-in-hand.

After finishing the now-cold Chinese, I glanced at the clock and noted it wasn't any later than nine. Most bars are just opening for the night... I go to my bedroom and can't help but feel disgusted. I pull the sheets and bedding off before taking them to the garbage can outside. Once I come back in, I change into a pair of jeans and a nice T-shirt before slipping on some shoes.

I debated taking my car but after deciding I might not be in any state to drive by the time I go home, opted to call a cab instead.

Once the cab arrived, I made my way out. I tell the driver to drive to my favorite bar. Once we arrive, I paid the fee and told him to keep the change. I got out of the cab and headed inside.

I walked right up to a free bartender and asked for a whiskey neat. I found a table tucked away and sat down. I nursed my whiskey while watching the room. A bartender came up and set a second glass down in front of me. I looked up at her and smiled. "I'm sorry, I didn't order this."

She returned the smile. "Oh I know. The woman over there bought it for you." She pointed to who she meant.

I nodded and handed her the empty glass before picking up the other one. "Oh. Well thank you." I smiled before taking a sip. The bartender left me alone. However, the woman who bought my drink did not, much to my dismay.

She sat down in front of me and smiled. "Hey, I'm Lexie."

I forced a tight smile. "Daniel."

I tried my best to listen to whatever she was saying but I was too caught up in my own head. I barely even noticed when she walked away, obviously feeling rejected and defeated. I sighed and finished off my drink. I went and paid my tab after calling a cab.

Once home, I got a bottle of water out of the fridge and headed upstairs to my bedroom. I stood in the doorway, staring at my empty and unmade bed. I grabbed my pillow and went back to the couch. I laid down and pulled a throw blanket from off the back of the couch over me.

The next morning, I got up and immediately got in contact with a friend in real estate. He promises me that he can find a buyer for my apartment by the end of the week. He even offers to help find me a new place but I turn him down, already knowing where I will end up.

I offer the apartment, as is. Fully furnished. I want absolutely nothing to do with the life I had with Natalia. I leave my apartment and my old life in the hands of my friend, telling him to take whatever offer he sees best, before taking off for my hometown.

I arrived in Catskill two hours later. I drive down the long driveway to my family's home. I park my car and get out, not bothering to grab my bag. I make my way inside to find out what state the house is in.

The property had been vacated ever since my parents passed away a few years ago. I take a walk through of the house, noting all of the wear and tear the house has. A few coats of paint and a renovation crew, the house would be good as new.