Beneath The Shadow Of Love
4
Alfie doesn't know why, but the person he has been trying to avoid keeps appearing right in front of his face.
He once asked himself, "Can you really hate someone as much as you once loved them?" Surprisingly, the answer was yes. He couldn't believe how naive he had been. However, he knew that if this guy were caught in the crossfire, he would do anything to shield and protect him, regardless of the cost. He wouldn't let anything or anyone hurt him; he was ready to lay down his life for him. But then something changed. He woke up one day feeling nothing for him anymore, all his feelings numb. He couldn't explain what had happened.
Regardless of their past, it couldn't erase the fact that he had once asked to be loved by this guy who had treated him out of pity. In the end, he pitied himself even more for wanting something that wasn't genuine.
He wanted to run away, scream, and lash out, to inflict pain on anything in sight. But his feet and his whole body went numb, barely able to stand. He felt suffocated, trapped in his own space. However, he knew he couldn't afford to be weak when facing his rival. Summoning every last ounce of strength.
Rhys could read the whole room—the tension rising, eyes lingering enough to send shivers down his spine, and apologies hanging in the air. It felt as if the night itself mirrored our emotions.
He cleared his throat; having not spoken much, it left him with a raspy voice. Nevertheless, he made sure to clear it and highlight his words.
Rhys
Sit down before the food cools down.
No one felt much like eating, but they proceeded with formalities, sitting down to discuss business.
Nolan and Cai sat together, but Rhys looked away from them, focusing solely on their food. However, Nolan noticed the stare that Cai was giving him, and he felt jealous. Despite agreeing to an amicable breakup, Nolan couldn't shake off the jealousy.
Not long after their parents left, it was only the three of them left at the dinner table.
Cai
How have you been? It's been a year since it happened.
Rhys
"I'm fine. It's been a long time, and I've gotten over it. I'm in a better place now. I hope you are too."
Liam
We're glad that you both didn't stay mad at us for what happened.
Rhys
Look, I know why you're here. We were mad at what happened, but we're fine now. And if you hadn't stayed with us, we wouldn't be where we are now.
Alfie
"I wanted us to talk privately, hear me out, and then decide if you still want to give me another chance."
Rhys
"Let me finish. I spoke the truth earlier. If Liam hadn't left Alfie, he'd still be blindly devoted despite your infidelity. And I wouldn't be a singer without you. So, no need to apologize. You've made us better."
He didn't even pause to listen to Rhys, brushing past him as if he were inconsequential. With each step, he quickened his pace, scanning the crowd for the man with eyes like shining emeralds.
Liam
"I know I messed up, but please, just hear me out. I made a terrible mistake, and I take full responsibility for it. I love you, and I want to explain everything and hopefully make things right. Please give me a chance to explain."
Alfie fought against the urge to let his guard down, determined not to succumb to the emotional plea. He steeled his heart, forcing back the tears as he closed his eyes, shutting out the vulnerability creeping in.
As Liam witnessed the betrayal in his eyes, he saw his own vulnerability reflected back at him, recognizing him as his own weakness. Witnessing him shattered felt like a knife through Liam's heart, rendering him unable to comply with the plea, even as the final word was spoken.
His voice cracked, the desperation palpable as he sensed Alfie's heart tearing apart.
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